To direct the Secretary of the Interior to convey to the Nisqually Indian Tribe the Clear Creek Hatchery infrastructure.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Strickland, Marilyn [D-WA-10]
- Committees
- Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 29, 2026
Bottom line
This bill transfers ownership of key federal fish hatchery infrastructure to the Nisqually Indian Tribe without cost, enhancing tribal control over natural resource management.
What it actually does
This bill directs the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, to convey all right, title, and interest of the United States in specific infrastructure of the Clear Creek Hatchery to the Nisqually Indian Tribe. The conveyance must occur within 90 days of enactment, be subject to valid existing rights, and be for no monetary consideration. The bill also requires the Secretary to finalize a map and legal description of the conveyed items.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this conveyance is a crucial step towards tribal self-determination and strengthens the Nisqually Tribe's capacity to manage natural resources vital to their cultural heritage and economic well-being. They contend that local tribal management can lead to more effective and culturally appropriate stewardship of salmon populations, aligning with federal trust responsibilities and promoting co-management goals.
Opponents contend
While direct opposition to this specific conveyance is not widely anticipated, general concerns might be raised by those who advocate for maintaining federal control over natural resource infrastructure or question the precedent of transferring federal assets without monetary consideration, potentially impacting future federal budget flexibility or the broader management of federal properties.
The bill is very short and clearly written, making it highly accessible for a quick and thorough understanding.
Section 1(a) and (b)
Conveyance of Clear Creek Hatchery Infrastructure to Nisqually Indian Tribe
This provision mandates that within 90 days of the bill's enactment, the Secretary of the Interior must transfer ownership of specific infrastructure at the Clear Creek Hatchery to the Nisqually Indian Tribe. This transfer will be executed without any cost to the Tribe and will be subject to any existing valid rights. The infrastructure includes various ponds, springs, dams, a fish ladder, incubation room, raceways, and wells, along with associated pipes, conduits, fences, and roads.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue that transferring this infrastructure to the Nisqually Indian Tribe is a vital step in honoring treaty rights and promoting tribal sovereignty. They contend that the Tribe, with its deep historical connection and expertise in local ecosystems, is best positioned to manage the hatchery for the benefit of salmon populations and the broader environment, fostering more effective and culturally sensitive conservation efforts.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against this provision, as it aligns with federal policies supporting tribal self-determination and co-management of natural resources. However, some might generally question the transfer of federal assets without compensation, viewing it as a divestment of public property that could set a precedent for future transfers.
Tradeoffs
The provision navigates the tension between federal ownership and management of natural resource infrastructure versus empowering tribal nations with greater control over resources within their ancestral territories. It prioritizes tribal self-governance and localized resource management over centralized federal control.