RE: Great Redwood Trail Draft Master Plan Public Comment 

The Eel River is a Cultural Resource to Indigenous Tribes historic sustenance and food sovereignty. Tribes from Lake, Humboldt, Mendocino and Trinity County are dependent on the cultural resources provided by the Eel River, the 3rd largest watershed in California.  Today, the keystone salmon population is endangered, and Tribes have intentionally been excluded from meaningful consultation. The proposed route along the Wild and Scenic Eel River threatens both ecological balance and Tribal heritage. This plan disregards tribal consultation, undermining efforts to protect ecological communities and cultural sites.

The California Code states under Government Code, GOV 65352.4, Consultation between government agencies and Native American tribes shall be conducted in a way that is mutually respectful of each party's sovereignty.

The California Fish & Game Code § 16000 (2021) states the Legislature finds:

(a) Jurisdiction over the protection and development of natural resources, especially the fish resource, is of great importance to both the State of California and California Indian tribes.

(b) To California Indian tribes, control over their minerals, lands, water, wildlife, and other resources is crucial to their economic self-sufficiency and the preservation of their heritage.

(c) More than any other issue confronting the State of California and California Indian tribes, the regulation of natural resources, especially fish, transcends political boundaries.

We, the under signed community members, stand together to ensure Eel River Tribal voices are heard and that this vital ecosystem is preserved for future generations. We oppose the Great Redwood Trail Draft Master Plan route along the Wild and Scenic Eel River.

Thank you for the opportunity to provide public comment.