Tribal Consultation

Consultation with Indian Tribes and ANCSA Corporations: Overview

The Department of the Interior (DOI) Policy on Consultation with Indian tribes and the DOI Policy on Consultation with Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) corporations require that any USGS operational activity that may have a substantial direct effect on the lands or resources (which include reserved hunting, fishing, or gathering rights on ceded territory) of federally recognized Indian tribes, or on ANCSA corporation lands, water areas, or resources, requires that USGS provide these entities the opportunity to consult. In addition, research conducted remotely may also require consultation. 

Tribes or ANCSA corporations whose lands, resources or treaty rights may be affected by proposed research must be identified and invited to consult with USGS in the project's planning stage. This ensures that they may receive advanced information about the proposed research and decide whether they will accept an invitation to enter into formal consultation with USGS. Both of these DOI Consultation Policies state that consultation is a deliberative process that aims to create effective collaboration and informed federal decision-making. Tribes and ANCSA corporations may have concerns or information that can inform the final parameters of the proposed research.

Schedule of Upcoming National or Regional Consultations & Listening Sessions

On April 22, 26, and 30, 2024 the USGS will host three nationwide consultations for leaders of federally recognized Tribes, Alaska Native Corporations, and Native Hawaiian Organizations. The consultations will pertain to the development of the DOI Scientific Integrity Policy. Additional details and links to register for the virtual-only events can be found within the letters below. 

Select the blocks below to learn about USGS & Department of the Interior (DOI) Tribal consultation policies.