Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation Reclaims Ancestral Lands Near Yosemite

Nearly 900 acres of land bordering Yosemite National Park have been returned to the Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation after 175 years of displacement. The transfer from Pacific Forest Trust to the tribe includes Henness Ridge, a site of cultural significance featuring a traditional Native American trail and a vital migration corridor for wildlife. The land overlooks the Merced River and is located near Chinquapin/Badger Pass and State Highway 41. Tara Fouch-Moore, Tribal Secretary, emphasized the importance of this transfer, stating, “This transfer reunites our people to this unique area of our homeland.”

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The Southern Sierra Miwuk people historically managed these lands until the 19th century, when increased settlement and the establishment of Yosemite National Park led to their expulsion. The Pacific Forest Trust acquired the land to protect it from development and prepared it for return to tribal ownership over two decades. The property had been significantly affected by the Ferguson Fire in 2018, prompting restoration efforts that included reforestation and habitat improvement.

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The return of Henness Ridge allows the Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation to implement traditional ecological practices aimed at restoring biodiversity and climate resilience. These practices include cultural fire management, cultivation of native plants, and water quality protection for the Merced River tributaries. Sandra Chapman, Tribal Council Chair, remarked, “Having this significant piece of our ancestral Yosemite land back will bring our community together to celebrate tradition and provide a healing place for our children and grandchildren.”

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This land transfer not only re-establishes the Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation as stewards of Henness Ridge but also supports their ongoing pursuit of federal recognition, which has been sought since 1982. Laurie Wayburn, cofounder and president of Pacific Forest Trust, highlighted the significance of the transfer, stating, “This is an extraordinarily fitting and positive outcome!” The project is expected to enhance conservation efforts and serve as a platform for public education on indigenous land stewardship.

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While the land transfer has been largely celebrated, some critics may argue about the complexities surrounding federal recognition and the challenges that indigenous tribes face in reclaiming their lands. The Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation's journey reflects broader issues of land rights and cultural restoration faced by many Native American tribes.

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The Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation plans to utilize the reclaimed land for harvesting traditional foods, fibers, and medicines, thereby strengthening their cultural identity and ecological stewardship. The successful transfer of Henness Ridge may serve as a model for similar land reclamation efforts by other tribes in California and beyond.

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