Transfer will Improve Tribal Salmon Recovery Goals and Enhance Trust Land Management
The State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has entered into a Direct Transfer agreement with the Stillaguamish Tribe to transfer three state trust land parcels for use in long-term salmon recovery.
The parcels, located along the Stillaguamish River in Snohomish County, total 69.77 acres, with significant portions of each parcel within channel migration zones and floodplains of the river.
The state Board of Natural Resources unanimously approved the transfer at its September meeting as being in the best interests of DNR’s trust beneficiaries and the Stillaguamish Tribe. This transfer had been discussed for several years and was made possible by a 2024 change in state law that allowed direct transfers of state trust lands to federally recognized tribes.
“Nobody has more experience protecting salmon habitat along the Stillaguamish River than the Stillaguamish Tribe. By transferring this property to the Tribe, we are leveraging that experience to strengthen the habitat of salmon and ensure the sustainability of these vital landscapes for future generations,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Dave Upthegrove.
“The Stillaguamish Tribe is thankful for the opportunity to receive these parcels and continue our longstanding work to protect and restore salmon habitat. This deal is a significant step forward for our community, the state, and the environment. We look forward to ongoing collaboration with DNR under Commissioner Upthegrove’s leadership to advance our shared vision for environmental stewardship,” said Deputy Fisheries Manager for the Stillaguamish Tribe Scott Boyd.
The parcels are appraised at a market value of $174,000, which will be used to purchase replacement properties to fund schools and local government operations.
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