Tribal Relations

The Forest Service strives to be in the top tier of federal land managing agencies in partnering appropriately and collaboratively with American Indian and Alaska Native Tribal governments and communities for mutually beneficial outcomes.

In every region, station, area, and in the Washington Office, Tribal Relations staff advises leadership and support integration of Tribal relations issues across program areas. These personnel collaborate with other Federal agencies, Tribal governments, inter-Tribal entities, and other partners to develop and implement programs, and leverage funds and expertise for programs or projects. Forest-level Tribal program managers and other personnel in various Forest Service units play important roles in accomplishing Tribal Relations goals.

Throughout the agency, line officers are responsible for cultivating and maintaining government-to-government relationships in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, Executive Orders, and agency policy. Whether in the Washington Office, the Regional Offices, at National Forests, Research Stations, or other units, the relationships with Tribes that Forest Service personnel build, maintain, and enhance make a difference.