Indigenous tribes in northern California seek greater decision-making power over sacred lands recently protected by a national monument expansion.
Taylar Dawn Stagner reports for Grist.
In short:
- The Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation and allies have successfully lobbied to include Molok Luyuk in the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument, protecting it from wind farm development.
- Tribes are negotiating a co-stewardship agreement with federal agencies, aiming for stronger management roles over Molok Luyuk, though full co-management requires congressional approval.
- True co-management, as seen in Bears Ears National Monument, grants tribes significant decision-making power, integrating traditional knowledge into federal land management.
Key quote:
“Co-management means decision-making authority. Co-stewardship means one entity still has the decision-making authority.”
— Melissa Hovey, Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument manager.
Why this matters:
Empowering Indigenous tribes in land management enhances conservation efforts and acknowledges their traditional ecological knowledge while honoring sacred sites. Read more: Giving Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante the protection they deserve.
