The U.S. Forest Service has released a management plan that seeks to protect a sacred site of the Nor-Rel-Muk Tribe of California.

Kok-Chee-Chup-Chee, also known as Natural Bridge, is a natural rock formation where tribal ancestors went for spiritual guidance. But it became a mass burial ground in 1852, when settlers attacked the tribe, killing upwards of 300 men, women and children.

The management plan would educate visitors about the massacre and the site's importance. It also calls for a voluntary ban on climbing the rock. The voluntary ban has the support of a national climbing group.

Comments are still being accepted on the plan. The Natural Bridge is part of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest.

Get the Story:
Forest Service plans to protect site of massacre (The Redding Record Searchlight 11/9)
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Relevant Documents:
Natural Bridge Management Assessment (September 2004)

Related Stories:
California tribe seeks protection of sacred site (07/06)