Supreme Court denies tribal land case

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2002

The Supreme Court on Monday rejected an appeal of a land dispute involving the Fort Mohave Tribe and the Colorado River.

The United States, on behalf of the tribe, is trying to clarify a land dispute affecting the tribe's land. The reservation spans Arizona, California and Nevada but a portion is in dispute because the river has changed course and private landowners are affected.

A federal appeals court sided with the U.S. and said the claim needed to be resolved. Private landowners were trying to secure undisputed title.

The case returns to federal court in Arizona for further proceedings.

Decision Below:
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA v. BYRNE, No. 00-16008 (9th Cir. May 29, 2002)

Relevant Documents:
Docket Sheet: No. 02-604

Relevant Links:
U.S. Supreme Court - http://www.supremecourtus.gov

Related Stories:
Supreme Court Docket: 2002-2003 (12/04)