Eastern Washington University Finds Ancient Remains
Published Date: 7/2/2026
Notice
Summary
Eastern Washington University has finished checking and identifying some ancient human remains found in Okanogan County, WA. These remains are linked to the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation. Starting August 3, 2026, the university can return these remains to the tribes, honoring their history and culture.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Human Remains Identified for Repatriation
Eastern Washington University has identified human remains representing at least one Native American individual as culturally affiliated with the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation. The university may return these remains to the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation on or after August 3, 2026.
Repatriation Request Process and Timeline
Written requests for repatriation must be sent to the NAGPRA Coordinator at Eastern Washington University and may be submitted by any of the identified Indian Tribes, Native Hawaiian organizations, or by lineal descendants or other tribes/organizations who show, by a preponderance of the evidence, cultural affiliation. Repatriation may occur on or after August 3, 2026; if competing requests are received the university will determine the most appropriate requestor, and joint repatriation requests are treated as a single request.
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Key Dates
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