The Forest Service recognizes American Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians as people with distinct cultures and traditional values. We strive 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.

Forest Service policy in general states that the Forest Service will:

• Maintain a governmental relationship with federally recognized tribal governments;
• Implement our programs and activities honoring tribal rights and fulfill legally mandated trust responsibilities;
• Administer programs and activities to address and be sensitive to traditional relations beliefs and practices; and
• Provide research, transfer of technology, and technical assistance to Tribes.

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Cultural Resources are Protected by Law

Cultural resources on federal land are protected by laws including:

• The National Historic Preservation Act
• The Antiquities Act
• The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act
• The American Indian Religious Freedom Act
• The Archaeological Resources Protection Act

Archaeological Resources Protection Act

It is illegal to excavate, remove, damage, or otherwise deface any archaeological resource located on public or Indian lands. Damage to archaeological sites in excess of $500 is a felony punishable by up to $250,000 in fines and imprisonment for up to two years for the first offence. All materials, equipment, and vehicles used in the commission of such crimes are subject to forfeiture.