Channel Islands Park Hands Back 40 Native Tools to Local Tribe
Published Date: 4/9/2026
Notice
Summary
The National Park Service at Channel Islands National Park plans to return 40 cultural items, like stone tools and shell beads, to a Native American tribe connected to the area. This repatriation can start on or after May 11, 2026, and honors the tribe’s heritage by giving back important artifacts collected over 140 years ago. No costs or hazards are expected, just a respectful handover of history.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Return of 40 Cultural Items Planned
The National Park Service at Channel Islands National Park intends to return 40 cultural items (including stone tools, shell beads, and other unassociated funerary objects) to the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Mission Indians. The repatriation may occur on or after May 11, 2026.
Who May Request Repatriation
Any lineal descendant, Indian Tribe, or Native Hawaiian organization not named in the notice may submit a written request for the items if they show by a preponderance of the evidence that they are a lineal descendant or culturally affiliated. Requests must be sent to the Superintendent at Channel Islands National Park and repatriation may occur on or after May 11, 2026; competing requests will be resolved by the park.
Hazard Information For Items Unknown
The notice states that the presence of any potentially hazardous substances on these 40 cultural items is unknown. Those handling or receiving the items should be aware that hazards were not identified in this notice.
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