Deb Haaland U.S. Secretary of the Interior | Official Website
A filing was made in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, seeking to finalize litigation and implement a settlement agreement signed by Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland and the Jemez Pueblo. This agreement acknowledges the Jemez Pueblo's rights to occupy and use Banco Bonito in the Valles Caldera National Preserve for cultural and religious purposes. Banco Bonito covers about 3,035 acres within the 88,900-acre preserve.
Secretary Deb Haaland stated, "Since time immemorial, our nation’s lands have been central to the cultural and spiritual practices of Indigenous peoples. It is essential that wherever we can, we allow the original stewards of these lands to live and worship in these places." She emphasized that this settlement is part of ongoing efforts to engage Tribal Nations through co-stewardship.
The legal journey began in 2012 when Jemez Pueblo sued the United States to assert aboriginal title claims over lands within Valles Caldera National Preserve. The initial court decision against Jemez was overturned on appeal, leading to a trial where Jemez Pueblo could not establish aboriginal title. Upon further appeal, their claim focused on four sub-areas including Banco Bonito. Support came from amicus briefs filed by 15 other Pueblos and the Zuni Tribe.
On March 22, 2023, the Tenth Circuit reversed a district court ruling regarding Banco Bonito, affirming Jemez's continuing aboriginal title there while upholding other findings.
The settlement ensures Banco Bonito remains part of the Preserve under NPS management but recognizes Jemez's rights for traditional uses. It mandates amendments to foundation documents reflecting tribal interests. Other tribes and public access will continue under Preserve Act guidelines.
Under President Biden's administration, efforts have been made to enhance relationships with Tribal Nations through increased co-stewardship and integrating Indigenous Knowledge into conservation work across sacred sites nationwide. Joint Secretary's Order 3403 emphasizes federal-Tribal cooperation on land stewardship.
