PRESS RELEASE: Natural Resources Agency strengthens Tribal Consultation Policy

The California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) has released an updated Tribal Consultation Policy setting clear standards for early, often, and meaningful consultations with tribes in agency actions. The revised policy formalizes CNRA’s commitment to building lasting partnerships with California Native American tribes and addressing historic wrongs that excluded tribes from the stewardship of their ancestral lands and waters.

For decades, state policies disrupted tribal stewardship and excluded tribes from key decisions. The updated Tribal Consultation Policy aims to correct this by providing a policy framework for all CNRA departments, conservancies, commissions, and boards. It clarifies the role of tribal liaisons, outlines mandatory training requirements, and includes a Tribal Consultation Best Practices Appendix with proven consultation models to guide staff.

“California is stronger when we work in true partnership with tribes,” said CNRA Secretary Wade Crowfoot. “This policy moves us beyond symbolic commitments and into action by setting clear standards for consultation. By listening early, engaging often and respecting tribal leadership, we will build more trust and create better outcomes for people and nature.”

“The policy represents a significant step toward rebuilding relationships between the State and tribes. It gives our staff the tools, training, and accountability needed to ensure that consultation is not an afterthought, but a foundational part of how we work,” said CNRA Deputy Secretary for Tribal Affairs Geneva E. B. Thompson. “Through consistent consultations, CNRA is advancing a new era of tribal-state partnership built on respect, reciprocity, and tribal-state stewardship.”

While acknowledging there is more work to do, CNRA views the updated policy as a key milestone in advancing truth, healing, and accountability. It complements other initiatives underway, including the Tribal Nature-Based Solutions grant program that supports ancestral land return and the upcoming Tribal Stewardship Policy and Toolkit.

For more information and to read the full Tribal Consultation Policy and Best Practices Appendix, please visit: https://resources.ca.gov/Initiatives/Tribalaffairs/TribalConsultation.