Tribal Relations
The forest regularly consults with 20 federally recognized tribes for input into its annual program of work. Additionally, the forest works in partnership with several of the tribes on various special projects.
Annually, the forest participates in the Nome Cult Walk with the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians, Round Valley Indian Tribes, the Mechoopda Tribe of Maidu Indians and other tribes. The event honors and remembers those who were forced to march through the forest in 1863 from Chico to the Round Valley Reservation in Covelo. The Mendocino National Forest worked together as a partner with the tribes to complete a brochure to document the history of the trail, educate the public and install interpretive signs along the entire route through the forest.
Cultural resources on federal land are protected by laws:
- National Historic Preservation Act
- Antiquities Act
- Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act
- 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.