New York State has reached a settlement with the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, resolving a land dispute that began in 1982. The agreement returns approximately 9,500 acres in Franklin County and 4,800 acres in St. Lawrence County to the tribe. It also provides for payments from the New York Power Authority (NYPA) for land use and power provision, tuition assistance for tribal members attending SUNY institutions and community colleges, and restored access to islands on the St. Lawrence River.
“In order to pave a way forward, we must acknowledge the mistakes of the past — and I am grateful that the agreement between New York State and the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe has allowed us to do just that,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “While New York’s history was stained with a tragic history, its future will be of justice, reconciliation, accountability and healing — as Governor, I am committed to supporting all Indigenous Peoples in our State and taking the necessary steps to strengthen and restore relations with the State.”
The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council stated: “Our land claim has spanned approximately 43 years. Getting our land back has been a goal of ours and our ancestors — we would not be here without the perseverance and courage from everyone who worked on the claim and negotiations since 1982. The Settlement is not perfect, as it does not restore all Mohawk lands that we historically lost. However, the settlement provides us the opportunity to add, restore, and acquire lands, as well as to remove property taxes, provide funding for Akwesasne Mohawk students at SUNY, in addition to acquiring power at a preferred rate.”
Under this agreement:
– Disputed lands will become Indian Land upon effectuation of the deal; about 9,200 acres in Franklin County and 3,200 acres in St. Lawrence County are included.
– There will be immediate restoration of some acreage: 3,400 acres in Franklin County and 1,300 acres in St. Lawrence County.
– Recurring payments include $2 million annually to Franklin County plus an additional $1 million from exclusivity payments; St. Lawrence County receives $4 million annually from exclusivity payments.
– A process is established for converting certain parcels into Indian Land if conditions are met.
For power usage:
– NYPA will pay SRMT $2 million each year over 35 years (totaling $70 million).
– Up to nine megawatt-hours of low-cost power will be provided yearly by NYPA for economic or personal use by tribe members; this power cannot be resold on open markets.
On education:
– Tuition waivers cover up to eight full-time semesters at any SUNY or community college campus for enrolled Akwesasne Mohawks.
– Applicants to Cornell or Alfred receive reductions equivalent to SUNY undergraduate resident rates.
– No income requirements are attached.
Regarding access:
– The tribe regains rights for hunting, fishing, trapping and gathering on Croil Island, Long Sault Island and Barnhart Island under certain restrictions.
– No fees apply when using Robert Moses State Park – Thousand Islands boat launch.
– Environmental monitoring may occur with advance notice but must avoid damage during monitoring periods.
– SRMT gets right of first refusal if state ownership changes regarding these islands.
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said: “The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe and the people of Akwesasne have long sought justice and the return of their rightful land,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I’m so grateful that after decades of unceasing advocacy from tribal leaders Governor Hochul has signed the agreement to return thousands of acres to the Tribe. I will continue working to ensure this agreement is ratified by Congress and remain a committed partner to Native communities across our state.”
Assemblymember Billy Jones added: “Although I’ve been involved with the land claim settlement discussions for over 15 years most of credit goes to Franklin County legislators past present… After years of tedious negotiations this agreement ensures a fair settlement for all parties…”
Franklin County Board Chair Ed Lockwood noted: “After decades…the three parties have reached consensus…for review approval….we look forward finalization opportunities it represents…”
St. Lawrence Board Chair David Forsythe commented: “This Settlement will provide opportunity return land while improving opportunities surrounding counties…This litigation active over 43 years concludes with an agreement recognizes rights privileges responsibilities all parties….Thank you Governor signatories resolving long standing challenge…”
Governor Hochul’s administration states she remains committed toward stronger relationships with Indigenous peoples throughout New York State through actions such as formal apologies related to historic injustices involving state-run schools; meetings with tribal leaders; creating roles like Deputy Secretary for First Nations within her office; returning more than one thousand acres previously held by New York State back Onondaga Nation; supporting initiatives aligned Indian Child Welfare Act objectives; expanding dental care funding; reviewing artistic representation Indigenous peoples Capitol building alongside nation representatives.
