Regulations to govern the leasing of unassigned land on the Colorado River Indian Reservation in western Arizona until August 14, 1957, were announced today by Secretary of the Interior Douglas McKay.
The regulations were promulgated under authority of a law enacted last August 14 which covers leasing of these particular lands for a two-year period. Under the regulations the duration of leases for nonagricultural (public, religious, educational, recreational, residential, or business) purposes will be determined in each case by the requirements for amortization of the capital to be invested. Where circumstances justify, such leases may be made for as long as 25 years and renewals for not more than an additional 25 years may be made with the consent of both parties.
Agricultural leases, however, are limited to 10 years except in cases where the production of specialized crops or the development of soil or water resources would require substantial investments which would, in the judgment of the Secretary or his authorized representative, justify longer leases up to a maximum of 25 years. Because the beneficial ownership of the lands on the Colorado River Reservation is involved in a claim now pending before the Indian Claims Commission, the law and regulations set up special procedures governing the disposition of rental income from these lands.
All income received prior to August 14, 1957, and prior to determination of beneficial ownership of the lands, from land in the so-called "northern reserve" and on the California side of the Colorado River may be expended for the benefit of the Colorado River (Mohave and Chemhuevi) Tribes and their members.
During this same period income from land in the so-called "southern reserve” may be expended for the improvement and development of these lands.
Income received after August 14, 1957 is to be held in a special account until beneficial ownership of the lands is determined.
Income received after this determination has been made is to be held in trust or the beneficial owners of the land from which the income was derived and is to be expended as otherwise authorized by law.
