Interior extends tribal forestry management program

The Department of the Interior announced a ten-year extension of the Indian Trust Asset Reform Act Demonstration Project, continuing the Trump administration's efforts to empower tribes and reduce federal bureaucracy.

Under this program, tribes that are engaged in forest land management or surface leasing activities on trust lands may establish an Indian Trust Asset Management Plan, allowing the tribe to develop their own forestry and surface leasing regulations and assume certain approval authorities otherwise held by the Department of the Interior.

"Recognizing that tribal leaders understand the values and needs of their communities better than federal officials in Washington, D.C., the Trump administration continues to empower tribal communities to manage their own lands," said Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Billy Kirkland. "This program advances tribal sovereignty and gives tribal communities a greater say in how they manage their forest resources."

This extension is consistent with an executive order signed by President Trump last year to enhance forest management, reduce wildfire risks, and decrease reliance on imported timber while creating jobs, lowering constructions costs, and making the United States more self-reliant.

By extending the project until June 22, 2036, tribes will have expanded opportunities to apply for and engage in the initiative at a pace that supports long-term planning, capacity building, and full utilization of the opportunities offered.

Tribes have demonstrated significant progress and leadership in the management of trust forest lands, and many have expressed strong interest in exercising greater sovereignty over their forest resources. This extension reflects Interior's recognition of that leadership and its ongoing dedication to advancing tribal self-governance in the management of forest trust assets.