Indian Land Claims

Number: 1980-22

WHEREAS, Indian tribes are making numerous claims to lands in both public and private ownership; and

WHEREAS, these claims are arising in the States of New York, Maine, Massachusetts, Wisconsin, North Carolina, North Dakota, and Arizona among others; and

WHEREAS, the public lands are of enormous value to all Americans for their use and enjoyment; and

WHEREAS, the public lands are a vital element in the management and perpetuation of America’s wildlife and fisheries resources;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the National Wildlife Federation, in annual meeting assembled March 20-23, 1980, in Miami Beach, Fla., hereby urges the full and fair settlement of Indian land claims on a basis which will not require the loss or transfer of public lands into other ownerships; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this organization urges full mitigation and/or compensation for the loss of wildlife lands which may have been purchased with state or federal hunting and fishing license fees or stamps in the event that these properties are involved in Indian claim settlements; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the National Wildlife Federation reiterates its conviction that payment of just claims should be made in cash rather than by transfer of natural resources.