Plans for the use and distribution of $4.9 million awarded by Indian Claims Commission to the Western Apache Indians are being published in the Federal Register, Commissioner of Indian Affairs Morris Thompson announced today.
The award, for lands taken by the United States without compensation between 1873 and 1902, will be divided equally between the White Mountain Apache Tribe and the San Carlos Apache Tribe as present-day successors of the Western Apaches.
The plans for both tribes, approved by Congress and made effective December 3, 1975, provide for 80 percent of each tribe’s share to be paid on a per capita basis to enrolled members, with remaining 20 percent to be programmed for projects of continuing benefit to the tribes.
The programmed funds for the White Mountain Apache Tribe will be used to curb juvenile delinquency by providing recreational facilities and programs for the youth of the reservation.
The San Carlos Apache Tribe will emphasize economic development in the use of their programmed funds. They will also set aside a portion of the funds for educational purposes and for a funeral program.
