Major Recent Land Returns To Native Tribes Could See Significant Setback From Trump and Project 2025

The Land Back movement in the United States has gained significant momentum in recent years, with major tracts of land being returned to Native American tribes through state agreements, federal initiatives, and grassroots advocacy. From thousands of acres in California to historic co-management deals for national parks, these efforts mark a shift toward recognizing Indigenous sovereignty and addressing historical injustices.

However, the future of the movement could face significant challenges with Donald Trump’s second term. His administration previously rolled back protections for Indigenous lands, supported fossil fuel expansion on tribal territories, and weakened environmental regulations—policies that could be reinstated or expanded. Additionally, proposals from Project 2025, a policy blueprint aligned with Trump’s allies, suggest eliminating federal protections for sacred sites and increasing resource extraction on tribal lands. Such moves could stall or even reverse recent progress in the Land Back movement, forcing Indigenous communities to fight new legal and political battles to reclaim their ancestral lands.

California Tribal Land Returns

California has emerged as a leader in the Land Back movement, with several significant land returns to Native American tribes in recent years. In June 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom announced the state’s support for returning over 2,800 acres of ancestral homeland to the Shasta Indian Nation, marking one of the largest land returns in California’s history.

This effort is part of the state’s ongoing reconciliation process with Native American communities. The Shasta Indian Nation land return involves 2,820.860 acres of “Parcel B” lands associated with dams in the region. This transfer not only restores ancestral territory but also acknowledges the historical injustices faced by the tribe. The timing of this announcement, on the 5th anniversary of California’s official apology to Native American peoples, underscores the state’s commitment to addressing past wrongs and rebuilding trust with Indigenous communities.

California’s efforts extend beyond the Shasta Indian Nation. In April 2024, the state awarded more than $100 million for 33 tribal land projects, supporting the return of over 38,000 acres of ancestral land to tribal stewardship3. These projects include:

• The acquisition of 10,395 acres of forested property by the Hoopa Valley Tribe, returning Hupa Mountain to tribal stewardship
• Implementation of Traditional Ecological Knowledge in land management practices
• Habitat restoration initiatives
• Climate and wildfire resilience projects

In December 2023, California made history by transferring over 40 acres of the Mount Whitney Fish Hatchery to the Fort Independence Indian Community, marking the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s first-ever land return. This transfer demonstrates the state’s commitment to working across various departments to facilitate land returns.

These initiatives are part of California’s broader strategy to support tribal leadership in environmental stewardship. The state has implemented programs such as the 30 x 30 initiative, the Tribal Nature-Based Solutions grant program, and the California Department of Parks and Recreation’s Tribal Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) Program to further these goals.

California’s approach to tribal land returns serves as a model for other states, combining large-scale land transfers with targeted programs that support tribal sovereignty and environmental conservation. As Tribal Affairs Secretary Christina Snider-Ashtari noted, these efforts are “a down payment on the state’s commitment to do better by the Native American communities who have called this land home since time immemorial”.

Yurok Tribe’s Redwood Agreement

In March 2024, the Yurok Tribe signed a historic agreement with the National Park Service, California State Parks, and Save the Redwoods League to transfer a 125-acre property known as ‘O Rew back to tribal ownership. This landmark deal marks the first time in U.S. history that Native-owned land will be co-managed by the National Park Service and California State Parks.

‘O Rew, located near Orick in Northern California, sits at the southern gateway to Redwood National Park and is roughly in the center of Yurok ancestral territory. The site holds significant cultural and ecological importance for the Yurok people, who were forcibly removed from the area in the mid-1800s to facilitate the exploitation of natural resources, including old-growth coast redwood trees.

The agreement outlines a shared vision for long-term co-stewardship of the site, which will serve as a gateway for visitors to Redwood National and State Parks (RNSP). 

Key elements of the plan include:

• Building a new visitor and cultural center to highlight the distinct histories and cultures of local tribes
• Constructing a traditional Yurok village with redwood plank houses and a sweat lodge, open to the public
• Developing new trails that connect to the parks’ existing trail systems, including the Lady Bird Johnson Grove
• Incorporating Yurok language, culture, and history into interpretive displays
• Housing recovered cultural items, such as traditional baskets

The ‘O Rew Redwoods Gateway is expected to ease pressure on popular destinations within RNSP, such as Fern Canyon, which has seen increased visitation in recent years. The land is set to be officially conveyed to the Yurok Tribe in 2026, with the traditional village and new trails planned for completion by that time.

This agreement not only represents a significant step in land repatriation but also demonstrates a new model for collaborative management between Indigenous nations and government agencies. As Armando Quintero, director of California State Parks, stated, “This historic agreement provides a pathway for the addition of Indigenous lands to the suite of values employed in co-managing and protecting Redwood National and State Parks lands for the enjoyment of public and Indigenous peoples in the region.”

Muscogee Nation Reservation Ruling

The 2020 U.S. Supreme Court decision in McGirt v. Oklahoma significantly impacted tribal sovereignty by affirming that much of eastern Oklahoma, including most of Tulsa, remains Muscogee (Creek) Nation reservation land.

While not a direct land return, this ruling expanded the tribe’s jurisdiction over approximately 3 million acres, affecting criminal justice, taxation, and regulatory matters within the reservation boundaries. The decision has had far-reaching implications for tribal governance and state-tribal relations in Oklahoma, prompting discussions about similar cases for other tribes in the region.

Broader Impacts of Land Back Movement

The Land Back movement extends far beyond the physical return of land; it has profound social, environmental, and economic implications for both Indigenous communities and broader society. By restoring ancestral lands to Native stewardship, the movement addresses historical injustices while fostering Indigenous sovereignty, cultural revitalization, and environmental conservation.

One significant impact is the empowerment of Indigenous communities through self-determination. Land restitution provides tribes with the opportunity to manage their territories according to traditional practices and values, which often prioritize sustainability and ecological balance. For example, the Yurok Tribe’s co-management agreement for Redwood National Park integrates Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) into land stewardship, promoting biodiversity and climate resilience

Similarly, the Shasta Indian Nation’s reacquisition of over 2,800 acres enables them to implement culturally informed land management strategies that align with their heritage. Economically, the Land Back movement supports tribal development by creating opportunities for sustainable industries such as ecotourism, renewable energy projects, and traditional crafts. These initiatives not only generate income but also strengthen community ties and preserve cultural practices.

The restoration of sacred lands like ‘O Rew to the Yurok Tribe includes plans for a visitor center and cultural exhibits, which will educate the public while providing economic benefits to the tribe.

Environmental stewardship is another critical outcome. Indigenous-led conservation efforts have proven effective in protecting ecosystems and combating climate change. Studies show that lands managed by Indigenous communities often experience lower rates of deforestation and biodiversity loss compared to other protected areas. The integration of TEK in projects like controlled burns or native species restoration enhances ecological health while respecting cultural traditions.

On a societal level, the Land Back movement challenges colonial narratives and fosters reconciliation. By recognizing Indigenous peoples as rightful stewards of their ancestral lands, these efforts promote equity and justice. They also encourage collaboration between tribal nations, governments, and private organizations, setting a precedent for cooperative land management models. For instance, partnerships like those involving Save the Redwoods League demonstrate how non-Indigenous entities can support land restitution through funding and advocacy.

Ultimately, the broader impacts of the Land Back movement underscore its transformative potential—not just for Indigenous communities but for society as a whole. It offers a pathway toward healing historical wounds while addressing urgent environmental challenges and fostering a more inclusive future.

The Cultural Significance of Restored Ancestral Lands

Restoring ancestral lands to Native American tribes goes beyond addressing historical injustices; it revitalizes cultural identity, spiritual practices, and traditional knowledge systems. For many Indigenous communities, the land is inseparable from their heritage, serving as a living repository of language, customs, and ecological wisdom. The return of sacred sites like burial grounds or fishing areas allows tribes to reconnect with traditions that have been disrupted by centuries of displacement.

Ancestral lands also play a critical role in preserving Indigenous languages and oral histories. For instance, the restored meadow in Chiloquin, Oregon, now features native plants with interpretive signs and audio recordings that highlight their cultural significance for the Klamath Tribes. Similarly, the Nez Perce Tribe’s reacquisition of land sacred as Chief Joseph’s birthplace has enabled them to manage it as a wildlife preserve while honoring its historical and spiritual importance. These restorations not only strengthen tribal sovereignty but also ensure that future generations remain connected to their cultural roots.

Sacred Sites and Spiritual Reconnection

Sacred sites hold profound spiritual and cultural significance for Indigenous peoples, serving as vital links to their ancestral heritage and traditions. These locations, ranging from natural features like mountains and rivers to human-made structures such as mounds and geoglyphs, are deeply intertwined with Indigenous cosmology and identity. For example, Medicine Wheel in Wyoming remains a sacred site for the Crow Tribe, where offerings are still placed to honor traditional practices.

Similarly, the Effigy Mounds National Monument in Iowa preserves over 200 prehistoric mounds shaped like animals, which are revered by 20 associated tribes for their spiritual and historical importance. The reconnection to these sacred spaces is not merely symbolic but essential for cultural survival and healing. Indigenous communities often view the land as a living entity, with spirits that guide and sustain them. This worldview fosters a relationship of reciprocity with the earth, emphasizing care and respect rather than ownership. 

Efforts to restore access to sacred sites—such as the protection of Mauna Kea in Hawai’i or Oak Flat in Arizona—are ongoing battles against industrial exploitation and legal barriers. These initiatives not only safeguard Indigenous spirituality but also reinforce their sovereignty and connection to ancestral lands.

Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) Restoration

Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) is increasingly recognized as a vital component in ecosystem restoration efforts. This ancient wisdom, passed down through generations of Indigenous communities, offers unique insights into sustainable land management practices and holistic approaches to conservation.

By integrating TEK with modern scientific methods, restoration projects can achieve more comprehensive and culturally sensitive outcomes.

Key aspects of TEK restoration include:

• Incorporating traditional burning practices to reduce wildfire risks and promote biodiversity
• Utilizing Indigenous agricultural techniques that adapt to local climate changes
• Implementing sustainable harvesting methods that maintain ecosystem balance
• Restoring native plant species with cultural and ecological significance
• Engaging tribal communities in decision-making processes for land management

The integration of TEK in restoration efforts not only enhances ecological outcomes but also promotes cultural preservation and empowers Indigenous communities to reclaim their role as stewards of the land.

The Role of Federal Programs in Facilitating Land Returns

The U.S. Department of the Interior has played a crucial role in facilitating land returns to Native American tribes through programs like the Land Buy-Back Program for Tribal Nations. This program, established as part of the Cobell Settlement, provided $1.9 billion to consolidate fractional land interests and restore them to tribal trust ownership.

Over its 10-year implementation period ending in 2022, the program successfully consolidated and returned nearly 3 million acres of land to tribal nations across 15 states.

Key outcomes of federal land return initiatives include:

• Consolidation of fractional interests, addressing issues stemming from the 1887 General Allotment Act
• Improved economic conditions and increased tribal sovereignty for participating communities
• Creation of opportunities for conservation, cultural stewardship, and economic development on returned lands
• Contribution of $60 million to the Cobell Education Scholarship Fund, supporting over 4,100 Native American students

While these programs have made significant progress, experts suggest that continued efforts and additional funding will be necessary to fully address land fractionation issues in Indian Country.

Future Land Return Plans

Several significant land transfers to Native American tribes are planned for the near future, demonstrating a continued commitment to the Land Back movement.

The Penobscot Nation in Maine is set to receive nearly 30,000 acres of ancestral land in the Katahdin region, marking one of the largest land returns between a U.S.-based nonprofit and a tribal nation. This transfer, facilitated by the Trust for Public Land, will allow the Penobscot Nation to oversee wildlife protection, mitigate climate change impacts, and maintain sustainable forest management practices.

In California, ongoing efforts include the planned return of approximately 49,345 acres to various tribes, including the Hoopa Valley Tribe’s acquisition of 10,395 acres. Additionally, the state is supporting numerous tribal land projects through a $100 million grant program, which will facilitate further land returns and implement Traditional Ecological Knowledge in land management. These planned transfers reflect a growing trend of collaboration between state governments, nonprofits, and tribal nations to address historical injustices and promote Indigenous stewardship of ancestral lands.

Restoring Indigenous Stewardship

The Land Back movement represents a significant shift in addressing historical injustices and recognizing Indigenous sovereignty in the United States. As tribes reclaim ancestral lands, they are not only restoring cultural connections but also implementing sustainable land management practices that benefit both Indigenous communities and the environment

The movement goes beyond physical land transfers, encompassing broader goals of self-determination, cultural revitalization, and environmental stewardship. While progress has been made through various state and federal initiatives, the journey towards comprehensive land restitution is ongoing. As more tribes regain control over their ancestral territories, the integration of Traditional Ecological Knowledge with modern conservation practices offers promising solutions for addressing climate change and preserving biodiversity. 

The Land Back movement continues to challenge colonial narratives and foster reconciliation, paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable future for all Americans.

How Trump’s Second Term May Negatively Impact Indigenous Lands and Sovereignty

1. Environmental Policies and Land Use: The Trump administration has historically supported fossil fuel projects and rolled back environmental protections, which could continue to threaten Indigenous lands and sovereignty. For example, the administration previously rolled back the Bears Ears Monument and supported pipelines like the Dakota Access Pipeline, despite Native opposition.
2. Project 2025: This initiative, if implemented, could further undermine environmental protections and Indigenous control over their lands. It suggests ending federal mandates on electric vehicles and facilitating fossil fuel development on tribal lands, which could exacerbate environmental degradation and conflict with Indigenous interests.
3. Sacred Sites Protection: The repeal of the Antiquities Act, as proposed in Project 2025, could endanger the protection of sacred sites like the Grand Canyon and Bears Ears National Monument, which are crucial to Indigenous cultural and spiritual practices.

Challenges to Land Recovery Efforts

1. Financial and Legal Barriers: Tribes often face financial constraints and legal hurdles in acquiring their ancestral lands. A second Trump term might exacerbate these challenges by reducing federal support for land conservation programs and increasing the emphasis on resource extraction.
2. Tribal Sovereignty: The Trump administration’s past actions have shown a tendency to undermine tribal sovereignty, which is central to the Land Back movement. Continued erosion of sovereignty could hinder tribes’ ability to manage their lands effectively.

Potential Resistance and Resilience

1. Community Organizing: Indigenous communities have shown resilience and determination in the face of adversity. They are likely to continue organizing and advocating for their rights, potentially leveraging the Land Back movement as a rallying point.
2. Legal and Policy Advocacy: Tribes might focus on legal challenges and policy advocacy to protect their interests. The McGirt v. Oklahoma case sets a precedent for recognizing tribal jurisdiction over ancestral lands, which could be leveraged in future legal battles.

In summary, a second Trump term could pose significant challenges to the Land Back movement by undermining environmental protections, threatening tribal sovereignty, and complicating land recovery efforts. However, Indigenous communities are likely to continue their advocacy and resistance, leveraging legal, policy, and community-based strategies to advance their goals.