Southern Sierra Miwuk Reclaim 900 Acres Near Yosemite NOW

UPDATE: The Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation has just reclaimed nearly 900 acres of ancestral land on Henness Ridge, a significant victory for Indigenous land rights. This historic transfer, confirmed earlier today, restores a crucial area above the Merced River canyons, empowering the tribe to manage the land for cultural, ecological, and community purposes.

The land, spanning approximately 897 acres, was transferred from the Pacific Forest Trust, which acquired it two decades ago to prevent development. The transaction, backed by a $2.4 million grant from the California Natural Resources Agency’s Tribal Nature-Based Solutions Program, marks a pivotal moment for the Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation, who have fought for generations to restore their ancestral territory.

Tribal Council Chair Sandra Chapman emphasized the importance of this land for the community, stating, “We know how to take care of the land. We want a space where we can start to congregate.” The reclaimed land is set to become a sanctuary for ceremonies, traditional plant harvests, and sustainable land management practices.

The Pacific Forest Trust previously focused on ecological recovery following the devastating 2018 Ferguson Fire. They removed dangerous trees and improved conditions for reforestation, planting around 125,000 native seedlings to ensure a resilient environment ready for tribal stewardship. These efforts are crucial in preparing the land for cultural practices and ecological restoration.

The California Natural Resources Agency’s support through the Tribal Nature-Based Solutions Program has facilitated the return of tens of thousands of acres to Indigenous tribes across the state. This funding is instrumental in promoting ancestral land returns and habitat restoration initiatives, enhancing ecological stability.

The Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation plans to implement traditional ecological practices on Henness Ridge, including prescribed burns and reforestation, to revive vital ecosystems. The tribe’s ongoing pursuit of federal recognition underscores the importance of this land in strengthening cultural continuity and self-governance.

Returning Henness Ridge to Indigenous stewardship not only symbolizes a homecoming for the Southern Sierra Miwuk but also enhances wildfire resilience and wildlife connectivity. Experts suggest this land return could significantly benefit the Merced River watershed, fostering biodiversity while mitigating the risk of severe wildfires.

This land transfer is part of a broader cultural restoration effort, including rebuilding the traditional village of Wahhoga in Yosemite Valley, highlighting the tribe’s commitment to preserving their heritage and natural resources.

The Henness Ridge hand-back serves as a critical example of how tribal stewardship aligns with conservation goals, potentially shaping future land return initiatives across California. For the Southern Sierra Miwuk, this significant achievement is a vital step towards cultural renewal and sustainable land management.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the impact it will have on the Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation and the surrounding ecosystem.