California transfers 136 acres of Mendocino coastline to Pomo tribal nonprofit

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) received final regulatory approval on June 26 to transfer 136 acres of Mendocino County coastline, including Blues Beach south of Westport, to Kai Poma, a nonprofit formed by the Sherwood Valley Band, Round Valley Indian Tribes and Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians.

Caltrans said the land, acquired in the 1960s for Highway 1 expansion and a scenic overlook, will be owned and managed by Kai Poma, which plans to protect natural and cultural resources, conduct surveys, and develop a long-term management plan. The nonprofit has also coordinated with the California Coastal Commission on a public-access scheme that will keep the beach open from sunrise to sunset while prohibiting commercial activity.

State legislation signed in 2021 by Governor Gavin Newsom, sponsored by Senator Mike McGuire, enabled Caltrans to convey state-owned property to tribal entities. McGuire noted the transfer allows the tribes to “reclaim sacred lands and cultural traditions.” Tribal leaders described the area as culturally and spiritually important, citing traditional gathering of seaweed and abalone and use for youth cultural camps.

The move follows concerns in state planning documents about unregulated public use, including camping, littering and damage to cultural sites. Supporters say the transfer will safeguard a scenic coastal stretch while restoring stewardship to the tribes historically connected to the land.