The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, with oversight from the National Park Service, plans to transfer Native American human remains and associated artifacts back to their rightful descendants or tribes under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). These remains, discovered in Greenlee County, Arizona, are linked to one individual and accompanied by significant cultural items. The Hopi, Acoma, and Zuni tribes are given priority for the reclamation. If no claims are made by January 20, 2026, the items will be considered unclaimed. Disposition may happen from February 18, 2025, onward if claims are received.
Simple Explanation
The government plans to give back some old bones and special items they found in Arizona to the Native American families or tribes they belong to, like the Hopi, Acoma, and Zuni tribes. If they don't hear from anyone by next year, they'll think nobody wants them, and they can start giving them back this coming February.