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January 25, 1993 <br /> Kerry Sullivan JAN 2 <br /> Senior Planner CO 71993 <br /> San Joaquin County Af%N[Ty <br /> Community Development Department PLA"I f NTD <br /> 1810 E. Hazelton Avenue NG DIVISION EPT. <br /> Stockton, California 95205-6232 <br /> RE: BUCKEYE RANCH DEVELOPMENT <br /> Dear Ms. Sullivan, <br /> This letter is being written to convey our concerns and questions <br /> regarding the proposed development of the Buckeye Ranch. It has <br /> been brought to our attention that developers are beginning to dig <br /> and clear the area in order to build residential homes and golf <br /> courses. This not only will have an adverse impact on the natural <br /> ecological habitat, but more significantly will disturb sacred <br /> grounds. <br /> The sacred grounds in which we refer to is the area in which we <br /> believe our ancestors are buried. It has been rumored that burial <br /> sites have already been disturbed and artifacts have been removed <br /> to either be sold or stored illegally. There are laws that <br /> prohibit this type of activity. <br /> In addition, the law states that wherever six or more burial sites <br /> are unearthed, this would constitute a cemetery. This would <br /> require notifying outside officials who are knowledgeable of the <br /> steps in which to take in order to protect the burial sites from <br /> further disturbance and damage. <br /> D18 <br /> Although the burial grounds are our primary concern , we also have <br /> questions as to what will happen to the species of trees, plants, <br /> and animals that inhabit this area. Are they to be completely <br /> destroyed and wiped out? <br /> We understand that the project has not been completely errant of <br /> contacting outside persons of concern. We are aware that a couple <br /> of Native American organizations have responded with similar <br /> concerns. This can be interpreted as positive and should at least <br /> convey that this development is believed to be not in the best <br /> interest of everyone. That is wny we stand united as Indians to <br /> protect our ancestors who cannot protect themselves. <br /> It is our request that before any additional planning or <br /> development occur, that extensive surveys be conducted to <br /> demonstrate what environmental impact this will create and more D19: <br /> importantly where our ancestors are buried and how we can either <br /> remove or let them remain undisturbed. <br /> VI-53 <br />