California Returned Ancestral Land to Indigenous Nonprofit
The state transferred 136 acres of coastal property to Kai Poma, a nonprofit formed by three local tribal groups.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Native American
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Should government agencies transfer land back to Indigenous tribes for cultural and ancestral preservation?
On July 6, 2026, the California Department of Transportation finalized the transfer of 136 acres of coastal land to the nonprofit organization Kai Poma. The site, located south of Westport, California, includes the ancestral village of K'etim.
Why it matters
This transfer returns significant ancestral territory to Indigenous ownership and protects the land from past issues with looting and vehicle damage. It fulfills a long-term goal of local tribes to secure and manage the site for future generations.
The property includes 100 acres of terraces containing archaeological sites and 40 acres of grazing land designated for potential building. Senate Bill 231 mandates the land remains open to the public free of charge.
The players
Kai Poma
This nonprofit organization was formed by three tribal groups to manage the returned coastal land.
California Department of Transportation
This state agency held the land title prior to the transfer authorized by Senate Bill 231.
Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians
This federally recognized tribe is one of the three founding members of the Kai Poma nonprofit.
The details
Kai Poma, established by the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians, the Round Valley Indian Tribes, and the Sherwood Valley Band of Pomo Indians, received the property at no cost. The law strictly prohibits commercial development, and the land reverts to state ownership should the nonprofit dissolve or fail to maintain the site.
Timeline
Tribes began requesting site stewardship to stop looting in 2005.
Senate Bill 231 was drafted in 2021 to authorize the transfer.
A grant for an archaeological survey was awarded to the nonprofit in 2023.
The official land deed was recorded on July 6, 2026.
Culture Shift
This land return reflects a growing societal movement toward restoring ancestral territories to Indigenous stewardship. It marks a departure from historical land management practices by prioritizing tribal sovereignty and cultural preservation over state control.
Visitors to the area south of Westport will continue to enjoy free public access to the coastal site. Residents should expect upcoming ceremonies and archaeological activities as the tribes begin their planned site surveys.
The takeaway
This transfer demonstrates how legislative actions can successfully resolve long-standing disputes over cultural site protection. It provides a model for other regions looking to balance public access with the return of land to its original tribal guardians.
Further reading
Learn more about tribal land initiatives on our Native American section page.
Live Poll
Should government agencies transfer land back to Indigenous tribes for cultural and ancestral preservation?
