Who Owns Most of the Grand Canyon? Understanding Public and Tribal Lands

The Grand Canyon, a geological marvel that leaves visitors awestruck by its sheer scale and vibrant hues, is not a single entity owned by one person or even one type of entity. When you stand on the South Rim, gazing out at the seemingly endless expanse, you might wonder, “Who owns most of the Grand Canyon?” The straightforward answer is that the vast majority of the Grand Canyon National Park and its surrounding federal lands are owned by the United States government, managed primarily for public use and preservation. However, a critical and often overlooked aspect of ownership involves Indigenous tribes whose ancestral lands encompass significant portions of this iconic landscape. My own first visit to the Grand Canyon was a humbling experience, not just for the immense natural beauty, but also for the realization that this land holds deep cultural and historical significance for Native American peoples, a perspective that truly reshaped my understanding of its “ownership.”

The Dominant Stake: Federal Government Ownership

The most prominent owner of the Grand Canyon is, without question, the federal government of the United States. This ownership is primarily vested in two key agencies: the National Park Service (NPS) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The sheer acreage managed by these entities is staggering, encompassing the core areas that most visitors experience as Grand Canyon National Park, as well as vast stretches of undeveloped wilderness surrounding the park’s boundaries.

Grand Canyon National Park: A Public Trust

Grand Canyon National Park itself, established in 1919, is a prime example of federal land stewardship. The National Park Service is tasked with preserving the natural and cultural resources of the park for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of present and future generations. The park boundaries encompass approximately 1.2 million acres. This vast area includes the most famous viewpoints, the developed visitor facilities on the South and North Rims, and the rugged inner canyon accessible by hiking trails or mule rides. The land within the park is held in trust for all Americans, meaning it is managed for the public benefit, with access and recreational opportunities prioritized alongside conservation efforts.

The NPS manages its holdings through a comprehensive general management plan, which outlines strategies for resource protection, visitor use, and infrastructure development. Decisions about trail maintenance, visitor center operations, backcountry permits, and conservation programs are all part of this federal mandate. When you pay an entrance fee to the park, or utilize the services provided, you are contributing to the upkeep of this publicly owned treasure. My personal experience with the park rangers has always been one of dedication; they are not just employees, but passionate stewards of this incredible landscape.

Bureau of Land Management Lands: The Wider Landscape

Beyond the boundaries of Grand Canyon National Park, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees an even larger contiguous area of federal land in Arizona, much of which lies within the broader Grand Canyon watershed and ecosystem. These BLM lands, often referred to as public lands, are managed under a multiple-use mandate. This means they are managed for a variety of purposes, including recreation, livestock grazing, mineral development (where permitted), and conservation. While the BLM lands surrounding the Grand Canyon may not receive the same level of intense visitor traffic as the national park, they are crucial for protecting the ecological integrity of the region and providing vast open spaces for exploration, hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

The BLM’s management responsibilities are diverse. They might involve managing grazing allotments for ranchers, overseeing mining claims, designating areas for off-road vehicle use, or implementing land use plans that balance economic interests with environmental protection. The scale of BLM holdings in Arizona is immense, and their management decisions directly impact the health of the Grand Canyon ecosystem as a whole. Understanding the role of the BLM is vital for a complete picture of who “owns” and manages the lands that define the Grand Canyon experience, even if they aren’t always the postcard-perfect views.

Tribal Ownership and Ancestral Lands: A Deeper Connection

While the federal government holds the majority of the land designated as Grand Canyon National Park and surrounding public lands, it is imperative to acknowledge the deep and enduring connection that Native American tribes have to this region. For millennia, before the establishment of any governmental boundaries, this land was, and in many ways still is, the ancestral homeland of several Indigenous peoples. Their connection is not merely historical; it is a living, breathing cultural and spiritual heritage.

The Hopi Tribe: Spiritual Guardians of the East Rim

The Hopi Tribe holds a particularly significant connection to the eastern reaches of the Grand Canyon. Their ancestral lands, which include mesas and canyons that are integral parts of the Grand Canyon ecosystem, are considered sacred. The Hopi people have a deep spiritual and cultural relationship with this land, which is intrinsically linked to their cosmology, their ceremonies, and their very identity. While the physical land may be federally managed, the spiritual and cultural ownership held by the Hopi is profound and continues to shape their relationship with the Grand Canyon.

The Hopi Tribe’s connection is especially strong around the eastern part of the canyon, often referred to as the Desert View area, which is within Grand Canyon National Park. The Desert View Watchtower, a prominent landmark, was designed by Mary Colter and built with the assistance of Hopi stonemasons, reflecting a collaborative spirit and acknowledging the tribe’s presence and heritage. The Hopi have historically utilized certain areas for hunting, gathering, and ceremonial purposes. Their ongoing relationship with the land is one of stewardship, guided by ancient traditions and a profound respect for the natural world. Understanding this tribal connection is essential for a holistic appreciation of the Grand Canyon’s ownership, moving beyond purely legal definitions to embrace cultural and historical realities.

The Havasupai Tribe: The People of the Blue-Green Waters

Perhaps the most direct and visible form of tribal land ownership within the Grand Canyon watershed belongs to the Havasupai Tribe. The Havasupai Reservation is situated at the bottom of the canyon, accessible only by a strenuous hike, helicopter, or mule ride. Their home, Supai Village, is nestled within a side canyon, famous for its breathtaking turquoise waterfalls – Havasu Falls, Mooney Falls, and Beaver Falls.

The Havasupai, whose name means “people of the blue-green waters,” have lived in and utilized the Grand Canyon for centuries. Their reservation, established in 1882, encompasses approximately 185,000 acres, including a significant portion of the canyon floor and its tributaries. This is a unique situation where a federally recognized tribe has sovereign rights and ownership over a substantial land base within the Grand Canyon area. The Havasupai Tribe governs its own affairs, manages its resources, and welcomes visitors to experience the unparalleled beauty of their homeland. Visiting Havasupai Falls is a pilgrimage for many, and experiencing their hospitality offers a direct glimpse into the living heritage of this remarkable tribe. The Havasupai’s presence underscores that “ownership” of the Grand Canyon is not solely a federal matter; it is also a deeply rooted tribal one.

Other Tribal Connections: Navajo Nation and More

The influence and ancestral lands of other tribes also extend into the broader Grand Canyon region. The Navajo Nation, the largest Native American reservation in the United States, borders the eastern edge of the Grand Canyon. While the primary viewing areas of the National Park are not within the Navajo Nation, their cultural and historical ties to the wider Colorado River watershed and the lands surrounding the canyon are undeniable. The Navajo have a long history of utilizing the resources of this vast landscape, and their traditional ecological knowledge continues to be a vital part of understanding and preserving the region.

Other tribes, such as the Southern Paiute, Ute, Zuni, and Yavapai, also have historical and cultural connections to various parts of the Grand Canyon ecosystem. These connections are often recognized through archaeological sites, traditional use areas, and ongoing cultural practices. While they may not hold direct land ownership in the same way as the Havasupai or have extensive land holdings within the national park like the Hopi do in certain areas, their historical presence and ongoing cultural ties are a crucial part of the Grand Canyon’s story. These connections highlight the complex web of human history and cultural heritage that is interwoven with the natural grandeur of the canyon.

Legal Frameworks and Coexistence

The ownership and management of the Grand Canyon are governed by a complex interplay of federal laws, tribal sovereignty, and historical agreements. Understanding these frameworks is key to appreciating the nuances of who owns most of the Grand Canyon.

Federal Land Management Laws

The National Park Service Organic Act of 1916 established the NPS and its mission to preserve natural and cultural resources while allowing for public enjoyment. This act forms the bedrock of federal management for Grand Canyon National Park. Similarly, laws such as the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) guide the BLM’s management of public lands, emphasizing multiple uses and conservation.

Tribal Sovereignty and Treaties

Native American tribes are sovereign nations with inherent rights. Their relationship with the federal government is one of nation-to-nation. Treaties, federal laws, and executive orders have established reservations and recognized tribal rights, including the right to manage their own lands and resources. The Havasupai Reservation, for example, is a sovereign territory within the United States, and the Havasupai Tribe has the authority to govern it. This tribal sovereignty is a critical component of understanding land ownership in the Grand Canyon region.

Cooperative Management and Consultation

Recognizing the deep cultural and historical ties of Native American tribes to the Grand Canyon, federal agencies like the NPS and BLM engage in consultation and collaboration with tribal governments. This often involves discussions regarding land management decisions that could affect tribal interests, archaeological sites, or sacred places. Agreements for cultural resource protection and cooperative management initiatives are becoming increasingly common, fostering a more inclusive approach to stewardship.

For instance, when the NPS plans any activity within the park that might impact cultural resources important to the Hopi or other tribes, they are legally and ethically obligated to consult with those tribes. This consultation is not merely a formality; it’s a process aimed at respecting tribal concerns and incorporating traditional knowledge into land management practices. This cooperative spirit is vital for ensuring the long-term preservation of both the natural and cultural heritage of the Grand Canyon.

Debunking Common Misconceptions

One of the most persistent misconceptions about the Grand Canyon is that it is privately owned, perhaps by a wealthy individual or a corporation. This is fundamentally untrue for the vast majority of the park and its surrounding federal lands. While there are some private inholdings within or adjacent to the park – typically ranches or small parcels of land – they represent a minuscule fraction of the total area.

Another misconception is that Native American tribes have no ownership in the Grand Canyon. As we’ve explored, this couldn’t be further from the truth. The Havasupai Reservation is a testament to direct tribal land ownership, and the Hopi, Navajo, and other tribes hold significant cultural and historical claims that translate into a form of stewardship and spiritual ownership over ancestral lands.

It’s also important to distinguish between “ownership” and “access.” While the federal government owns much of the land, it is managed for public access and recreation, with specific regulations in place to ensure preservation. Similarly, tribal lands, while owned by the tribes, are often accessible to visitors, subject to tribal rules and regulations.

A Shared Legacy: Looking Ahead

The question “Who owns most of the Grand Canyon?” doesn’t have a simple, singular answer. It is a mosaic of ownership and stewardship, primarily federal, but deeply intertwined with the enduring presence and rights of Native American tribes. The future of the Grand Canyon’s preservation and management will undoubtedly continue to involve collaboration between the federal government and tribal nations, recognizing their shared interest in protecting this irreplaceable natural and cultural wonder.

My takeaway from exploring this question is that understanding ownership of a place like the Grand Canyon requires looking beyond deeds and titles. It involves appreciating the historical context, the cultural significance, and the ongoing human relationships with the land. It’s about recognizing that while the National Park Service and the BLM are the primary legal custodians of the land, the Havasupai, Hopi, and other Indigenous peoples are its ancient custodians, whose connection and claims are fundamental to its very being.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grand Canyon Ownership

How is the Grand Canyon National Park managed?

Grand Canyon National Park is managed by the National Park Service (NPS), an agency of the U.S. Department of the Interior. The NPS is tasked with preserving the park’s natural and cultural resources while providing for public enjoyment. This management involves a variety of activities:

Resource Preservation: Protecting the geological formations, ecosystems, wildlife, and cultural sites within the park from damage and degradation. This includes scientific research, monitoring environmental conditions, and implementing conservation strategies.
Visitor Services: Providing facilities and services for visitors, such as visitor centers, campgrounds, restrooms, shuttle bus systems, and interpretive programs. The NPS aims to educate visitors about the park’s significance and encourage responsible behavior.
Permitting and Regulations: Issuing permits for activities like backcountry hiking, camping, river trips, and commercial operations. The park also enforces regulations designed to protect resources and ensure visitor safety.
Infrastructure Maintenance: Maintaining roads, trails, buildings, and other infrastructure necessary for park operations and visitor access.
Law Enforcement: Enforcing federal laws and park regulations to ensure safety and protect resources.

The management approach is guided by the National Park Service Organic Act of 1916 and detailed in the park’s General Management Plan. This plan outlines long-term strategies for protecting the park’s resources and managing visitor use in a sustainable manner.

What is the role of tribal governments in the Grand Canyon region?

Tribal governments play a crucial and multifaceted role in the Grand Canyon region. As sovereign nations, they have inherent rights and responsibilities concerning their ancestral lands and cultural heritage, which are deeply intertwined with the Grand Canyon.

Land Ownership: The Havasupai Tribe directly owns and governs a significant portion of land at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, including the famous Havasu Falls. Their reservation is a sovereign entity within the United States.
Cultural Heritage: Numerous tribes, including the Hopi, Navajo, Southern Paiute, Ute, Zuni, and Yavapai, have ancestral ties to the Grand Canyon. Their cultural sites, sacred places, and traditional use areas are scattered throughout the region, both within and outside the National Park boundaries.
Consultation and Collaboration: Federal agencies like the National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management are legally and ethically obligated to consult with tribal governments on management decisions that could affect tribal resources, cultural sites, or traditional practices. This consultation ensures that tribal perspectives are considered in land management planning.
Cultural Resource Management: Tribes often collaborate with federal agencies on the identification, protection, and management of cultural and archaeological resources. They provide invaluable traditional ecological knowledge that can inform conservation efforts.
Economic Development: Some tribes engage in tourism and other economic activities on their lands, offering unique cultural experiences and contributing to the regional economy. For example, the Havasupai Tribe manages tourism to their falls.

The relationship between tribal governments and federal land management agencies is evolving, with an increasing emphasis on co-management and collaborative stewardship to ensure the holistic preservation of the Grand Canyon’s natural and cultural landscapes.

Are there any private landowners within or near Grand Canyon National Park?

Yes, there are some private inholdings within and adjacent to Grand Canyon National Park. These are privately owned parcels of land, typically belonging to individuals or corporations, that are not part of the federal land managed by the National Park Service. However, these private lands constitute a very small percentage of the total Grand Canyon area and do not represent significant ownership of the park itself.

These inholdings can sometimes present management challenges for the NPS, particularly if activities on private land could impact park resources or visitor experience. The NPS may work with private landowners on conservation easements or other agreements to mitigate potential issues. For the most part, the vast expanse of the Grand Canyon, including its most iconic views and core wilderness areas, remains under federal ownership and management.

What does “ancestral lands” mean in the context of the Grand Canyon?

“Ancestral lands” refers to territories that have been historically inhabited, utilized, and considered sacred by Indigenous peoples for generations, often for thousands of years. In the context of the Grand Canyon, this means that long before the establishment of national parks, reservations, or modern borders, Native American tribes considered these lands their home. Their connection to these lands is not just historical; it is a living cultural and spiritual inheritance.

This concept is crucial because it acknowledges the deep, ongoing relationship between tribes and the Grand Canyon. It recognizes that their traditions, ceremonies, language, and identities are intrinsically linked to the landscape. When we refer to the Grand Canyon as ancestral lands for tribes like the Hopi, Havasupai, Navajo, and others, we are acknowledging their enduring presence, their historical rights, and their ongoing spiritual and cultural claims to the region. It highlights a perspective on ownership that goes beyond legal title to encompass profound cultural and historical ties.

How does the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manage lands around the Grand Canyon?

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages vast tracts of public land surrounding Grand Canyon National Park. These lands are often referred to as the “backcountry” of the Grand Canyon region. The BLM operates under a “multiple-use” mandate, meaning these lands are managed for a variety of purposes simultaneously, balancing different interests and uses. Key aspects of BLM management in this area include:

Recreation: Providing opportunities for hiking, camping, backpacking, hunting, fishing, and off-road vehicle use in designated areas. The BLM works to ensure that recreational activities are managed sustainably to minimize environmental impacts.
Livestock Grazing: Managing grazing allotments for ranchers, where permitted, under specific regulations to prevent overgrazing and protect rangeland health.
Mineral Development: Overseeing mineral exploration and extraction activities in areas where mineral resources exist and extraction is deemed appropriate under federal law, while also working to mitigate environmental impacts.
Conservation: Protecting sensitive habitats, endangered species, and areas of ecological significance. The BLM designates and manages Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACECs) and other conservation areas.
Wilderness Management: Designating and managing federal lands as Wilderness, which are areas that have been set aside to be preserved in their natural state, with very limited human intervention.
Land Use Planning: Developing and implementing land use plans that guide decisions about how public lands will be managed, balancing competing uses and ensuring resource protection.

The BLM’s management of these lands is vital for the overall health of the Grand Canyon ecosystem, as these areas often serve as important wildlife corridors and contribute to the watershed that feeds the Colorado River. Their approach is often more varied and potentially open to a wider range of uses compared to the more preservation-focused mandate of the National Park Service.

What is the significance of the Grand Canyon to Native American tribes?

The Grand Canyon holds immense and profound significance to numerous Native American tribes. This significance extends far beyond its geological grandeur and encompasses spiritual, cultural, historical, and practical dimensions:

Creation Stories and Spirituality: For many tribes, the Grand Canyon is a central place in their creation stories and spiritual beliefs. It is seen as a sacred landscape, a place where divine beings walked, and where important spiritual events unfolded. Certain formations or areas may be considered sacred sites for prayer, ceremonies, or connecting with the spirit world.
Ancestral Homeland and Sustenance: The Grand Canyon and its surrounding lands have been the ancestral home of Indigenous peoples for millennia. They have hunted, gathered, farmed, and lived in this region, developing a deep understanding of its resources and ecological rhythms. The Colorado River, which carved the canyon, has been a vital source of water and life.
Cultural Identity and Continuity: The Grand Canyon is intrinsically linked to the cultural identity and continuity of many tribes. Their traditions, languages, social structures, and ceremonies are often tied to the land. The canyon serves as a living testament to their history and resilience.
Traditional Knowledge and Practices: The tribes possess invaluable traditional ecological knowledge about the plants, animals, and natural processes of the Grand Canyon region. This knowledge, developed over countless generations, is crucial for understanding and preserving the ecosystem.
Historical Presence and Connection: Archaeological sites within and around the Grand Canyon provide evidence of long-term human habitation and use by Indigenous peoples. These sites offer tangible links to their ancestors and their history in the region.
Stewardship and Responsibility: Many tribes view themselves as caretakers or stewards of the land, holding a responsibility to protect and maintain its natural and spiritual integrity for future generations.

The spiritual and cultural significance of the Grand Canyon to Native American tribes is a fundamental aspect of its identity, enriching its story far beyond its natural beauty. This deep connection underscores the importance of respecting tribal rights and incorporating their perspectives into the management and preservation of this iconic landscape.

Who owns the Colorado River that flows through the Grand Canyon?

The Colorado River, the geological force that carved the Grand Canyon, is a complex resource governed by numerous interstate compacts, federal laws, and international agreements. It is not owned by any single entity in the way a piece of land might be. Instead, its waters are allocated and managed among various stakeholders.

Federal Oversight: The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation plays a significant role in managing the river’s water resources, particularly through the construction and operation of dams such as Hoover Dam and Glen Canyon Dam, which regulate flow and provide water for agriculture, cities, and power generation throughout the seven U.S. states in the basin (Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming) and Mexico.
Interstate Compacts: The Colorado River Compact of 1922, along with subsequent agreements and court decisions, divides the river’s water supply between the Upper Basin states and the Lower Basin states. This is a critical legal framework governing water allocation.
Tribal Water Rights: Several Native American tribes hold significant water rights to the Colorado River, often established through treaties, federal legislation, or court rulings. These rights are considered senior water rights in many cases, meaning they have priority over other users.
International Agreements: Mexico also has rights to a portion of the Colorado River’s flow, as defined by international treaties.

Therefore, while the river flows through federally owned land (Grand Canyon National Park) and tribal lands (Havasupai Reservation), the water itself is a shared resource managed through a complex system of legal and administrative agreements, rather than being “owned” by any single entity.

What are some of the challenges in managing Grand Canyon lands?

Managing the Grand Canyon and its surrounding federal and tribal lands presents a multitude of complex challenges, stemming from its immense scale, diverse ecosystems, rich cultural history, and high visitor numbers. These challenges require continuous adaptation and collaboration:

Balancing Conservation and Recreation: One of the primary challenges is balancing the imperative to protect the Grand Canyon’s pristine natural and cultural resources with the desire to allow millions of visitors to experience its wonders each year. Overcrowding in certain areas, trail erosion, and impacts on wildlife are constant concerns.
Climate Change Impacts: The Grand Canyon is vulnerable to the effects of climate change. This includes altered precipitation patterns, increased drought severity, changes in temperature affecting vegetation and wildlife, and potential impacts on the Colorado River’s flow. Managing these impacts requires adaptive strategies and long-term planning.
Water Scarcity: The Colorado River, the lifeblood of the Grand Canyon, is a critically over-allocated resource facing significant stress from drought and increasing demand. Managing water resources for ecological needs, tribal rights, and human consumption is an ongoing challenge.
Preserving Cultural Resources: The Grand Canyon is rich in archaeological sites and culturally significant places for Native American tribes. Protecting these fragile resources from vandalism, erosion, and impacts from visitor activities is a constant priority. This also involves respecting and incorporating tribal perspectives into management decisions.
Invasive Species: Like many natural areas, the Grand Canyon faces threats from invasive plant and animal species that can outcompete native flora and fauna, disrupting ecosystems.
Wildfire Management: While natural fires can be a part of the ecosystem, the risk of large, destructive wildfires is a concern, especially with changing climate conditions and increased human activity. Managing fire risk requires careful planning and sometimes prescribed burns.
Managing Visitor Access and Safety: Ensuring visitor safety, especially in the challenging terrain of the inner canyon, while also managing access to popular areas and providing a quality experience requires constant attention and resource allocation.
Coordination with Multiple Jurisdictions: The Grand Canyon region involves management by the NPS, BLM, U.S. Forest Service, state agencies, and multiple tribal governments. Effective coordination and communication among these entities are essential for cohesive land management.

Addressing these challenges requires ongoing scientific research, adaptive management strategies, strong partnerships with tribal nations, and a commitment to long-term preservation.

How can I respectfully visit tribal lands within or near the Grand Canyon?

Visiting tribal lands, such as the Havasupai Reservation, requires a deep respect for the culture, traditions, and sovereignty of the tribal nation. These are not just tourist destinations; they are ancestral homelands and living communities. Here’s how to ensure a respectful visit:

Research and Understand: Before your visit, take the time to learn about the specific tribe whose lands you will be visiting. Understand their history, culture, values, and any specific protocols or guidelines they have for visitors. For the Havasupai, this includes understanding their reservation system and the importance of the falls to their way of life.
Obtain Necessary Permits and Reservations: Many tribal lands, especially popular areas like Havasupai Falls, require advance reservations and permits, often booked months or even a year in advance. Ensure you have all the required documentation before you travel.
Follow Tribal Rules and Regulations: Tribal lands are governed by tribal laws and ordinances. Always adhere to posted signs, designated trails, camping areas, and any rules regarding photography, alcohol, or pets.
Respect Sacred Sites: Be aware that certain areas may be considered sacred by the tribe. Avoid entering restricted areas or disturbing any cultural artifacts or natural features. If unsure, always ask for guidance or err on the side of caution.
Be Mindful of Photography: Always ask permission before taking photos of people, private homes, or cultural ceremonies. Some tribes have specific policies about photography.
Support the Local Economy: Purchase local crafts, patronize local businesses, and hire local guides when possible. This directly supports the tribal community.
Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace principles rigorously. Pack out everything you pack in, minimize campfire impacts, respect wildlife, and stay on designated trails to protect the fragile environment.
Be Patient and Humble: Understand that you are a guest. Be patient with any logistical challenges, and approach your visit with humility and a willingness to learn.
Communicate Appropriately: When interacting with tribal members, be polite, respectful, and open to learning.

By approaching your visit with preparedness, respect, and a willingness to understand, you can have a meaningful and responsible experience on tribal lands.

In summary, who owns most of the Grand Canyon?

In summary, the overwhelming majority of the land that constitutes Grand Canyon National Park and its immediate environs is owned by the United States government, managed primarily by the National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management. This federal ownership is held in trust for the American public, with a mandate for preservation and recreation.

However, this is not the complete picture. A vital component of “ownership” and stewardship lies with Native American tribes. The Havasupai Tribe directly owns and governs its reservation lands at the bottom of the canyon. Furthermore, several other tribes, including the Hopi and Navajo, hold significant ancestral and cultural ties to vast areas within the broader Grand Canyon watershed and ecosystem, viewing these lands as integral to their heritage and identity. Therefore, while the federal government holds the largest legal title to the land, the concept of ownership is also deeply rooted in the enduring presence and rights of Indigenous peoples.

Who Owns Most of the Grand Canyon? Understanding Public and Tribal Lands