Tribes are gaining long‑term roles in managing natural and cultural resources, but GAO says those agreements could be more effective
Tribes are gaining long‑term roles in managing natural and cultural resources, but GAO says those agreements could be more effective  
Podcast: The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton
Published On: Wed Feb 25 2026
Description: GAO reviewed how agencies work with Tribes to share decisions on natural and cultural resources and found that while these agreements can provide meaningful, long‑term participation, they’re built unevenly from agency to agency. Some agencies have the legal authority to create deeper partnerships, while others, including the Forest Service and NOAA’s marine sanctuaries don’t, limiting Tribal influence over similar lands and waters. We’ll explore what it will take to close those gaps with GAO’s Anna Maria Ortiz.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.