 Environment and Energy
Updated January 2009
Environmental protection of land and natural resources is an extremely important concern for American Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians. A recent Congressional trend is to delegate environmental program implementation--previously only accorded to states--directly to Indian tribes. Several tribes have implemented successful water, forestry and wildlife conservation programs.
Indian Nations across the country have vast renewable energy potential and some are at the forefront in developing solar, wind, biomass, hydrogen and geothermal energy sources on their land. These alternative energy sources can provide substantial benefits to both tribes and their neighbors.
 Resources:
"Native American Power," State Legislatures, June 2007 by Kate Marks and Linda Sikkema.
"Sustainable Development: State and Tribal Initiatives," States and Tribes: Building New Traditions, July 2007, by Sia Davis.
To download  PDF File click here.
State-Tribal Government Working Group
The State and Tribal Government Working Group (STGWG) helps ensure that U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) facilities and sites are operated and cleaned up in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, and Tribal rights including those retained by treaty, and conferred by statute and the trust responsibility; as well as in a manner that protects human health, safety and the environment. Other participating organizations include the National Governors Association and the National Association of Attorneys General. For more information on STGWG, contact Melissa Savage.
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