Tule River Tribe Water Rights Settlement: Finalizing claims, funding water projects, and land transfer.
This Act approves the 2007 settlement, which finally resolves water rights claims for the Tule River Tribe and the United States in California. The Tribe receives a confirmed right to 5,828 acre-feet of water annually and significant funding (over $568 million) for water projects and infrastructure maintenance. Additionally, the Act transfers over 10,000 acres of land into trust for the Tribe, enhancing their sovereignty and development opportunities on the reservation.
Key points
Confirmation of Tribal Water Right: The Tule River Tribe gains a legally confirmed right to divert and use up to 5,828 acre-feet of surface water annually from the South Fork Tule River.
Funding for Water Infrastructure: Establishment of a Trust Fund exceeding $568 million for the planning, design, construction, and maintenance (OM&R) of water development projects on the Tule River Reservation.
Land Transfer into Trust: Over 10,000 acres of federal land (including Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service lands) and Tribally owned fee lands are transferred into trust for the benefit of the Tule River Reservation.
Waiver of Claims: In exchange for the benefits, the Tribe waives all past claims for water rights and related damages against the United States and other entities in California, ensuring a final resolution of the dispute.
Placed on Calendar
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