Man Returns Family Land to Tribe

Why this is here: Verbrugge’s donated land includes 605 acres protected by a conservation easement and an additional 280 acres purchased from his family.

Gary Verbrugge of Washington state is donating 885 acres of forested land to the Kalispel Indian Tribe. He purchased the land—originally settled by his relatives after moving from Iowa—over time, starting with acreage near his parents’ home. Verbrugge spent thirty years with the Social Security Administration before retiring to return to the land.

He previously placed 605 acres into a conservation easement with the Inland Northwest Land Conservancy in 2007. The Conservancy ensures the land remains in a natural state, following stipulations set by the owner. Verbrugge then acquired another 280 acres from family members to add to the protected area.

The land hosts diverse wildlife including moose, elk, and bull trout in the Little Spokane River. Verbrugge, who has no heirs, believes the Kalispel Tribe will continue to steward the land responsibly. The long-term effects of returning the land to the tribe remain to be seen, but the transfer ensures its preservation.