Environment
Colville Tribes settle dispute over land use


The Confederated Colville Tribes of Washington has settled a dispute over the use of tribal land near Wells Dam.

The tribe claimed $950 million in compensation for fishing grounds flooded by the land. The tribe also claimed ownership of land being used by the Douglas County Public Utility District.

The PUD has agreed to pay a one-time sum of $13.5 million to settle the dispute. This is in addition to the $21 million the tribe receives a year for other flooded lands.

The tribe has agreed to support the PUD's relicensing of the dam as part of the settlement.

Get the Story:
Colville tribes, utility settle fight over dam (AP 11/2)