Resighini Rancheria

The Resighini Rancheria, located just south of Klamath, California, is a Yurok Native American rancheria and a federally recognized tribe. It was formerly known as the Coast Indian Community of Yurok Indians of the Resighini Rancheria.

The reservation (on land measuring 228 acres) is primarily settled by members affiliated with the Yurok Coast Indian Community. A resident population of 36 persons was reported during the 2000 census. The 2010 US Census shows a decrease, with a population of 31. It is entirely surrounded by the Yurok Indian Reservation.

In 1938, the US government purchased 228 acres from a man named Augustus Resighini for landless Indians in the area. This land became a reservation in 1939. In 1975, members formed a tribal government that was approved by the Secretary of Interior.

The tribal government was formed in 1975. The Tribal Council consists of 5 tribal members who are elected annually by staggered two-year terms of Chairman, Vice Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer and councilperson. The general membership serves on boards, committees, commission and corporations to assist the Tribal Council.

The last tribal council listed by the tribe are: Rick Dowd (Chairman); Donald D. Valenzuela (Vice Chairman); Marilyn Lunsford (Treasurer); Gary Dowd (Secretary); Kathy Dowd (Councilperson). The tribe also has staff, which overlaps with who is on tribal council – probably because there are so few tribal members. The tribal staff people are: Tribal Manager - Donald D. Valenzuela; Administrative Secretary - Kathy Dowd ; Accountant - Febe Baca; EPA Director - Dawn Heckel; EPA Assistant - Davy Dowd; Housing Director - Sunshine Watkins; Water Technician II- Frank Dowd; Social Services Director - Keshan Dowd; Program Assistant, Chairman's Office - Phil Smith; Campground Manager - Gary Dowd; Janitor - Michael Valenzuela.

In 2003, the Resighini Rancheria established a tribal court to oversee criminal offenses as well as regulatory procedures regarding fishing and wildlife.

Resighini Rancheria tribal members participate in traditional dances such as the Brush Dance, as well as the Jump Dance and White Deer Skin Dance.

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