The Department of the Interior and the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon have signed an agreement to implement the Land Buy-Back Program for Tribal Nations (Buy-Back Program.)
This program provided $1.9 billion to buy back land that were once tribal land from willing sellers at market prices—about $514 million remains in the fund. It has so far made offers at 48 locations and 40 tribes and helped restore more than 2 million acres to tribes. The land immediately becomes trust land.
Acting Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs John Tahsuda announced, “Following the Department’s announcement of its revised strategy to maximize the consolidation of fractional interests, I am pleased to announce the agreement with the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs to implement the buy-back program.” He added, “The department remains committed to working with tribal governments on this important Program which benefits tribal community members and strengthens tribal sovereignty. Partnering with tribal governments is critical for effective outreach, informed decision-making, and to achieve the greatest consolidation of fractional interests and improved land management.”
Confederated Tribes Chairman Austin Greene Jr. announced “The tribes look forward to working with the program to create cultural, residential, governmental and economic opportunities by consolidating fractionated lands for the benefit of our tribal community. The tribes will be better equipped to manage our lands both on and off reservation. Land is important to us for the continued sovereignty of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, Wasco and Paiute people.”
The department recently updated its procedures for the policy, making it easier and faster. This most recent announcement is the first announced under the new streamlined program.
