Bird Conservation in Indian Country Kerey K. Barnowe-Meyer

Nimiipuu homeland Washington Montana Oregon Idaho

Birds in Nimiipuu culture Spirituality History Diet

Treaty Rights Not all of a tribe’s interests are based in treaties Every tribe is different: Not all tribes have treaties Varying treaty language Possibly multiple treaties Different tribal and/or court interpretations Nez Perce Treaties: fishing, hunting, plant gathering, pasturing of livestock to sustain Tribal culture

Regional Collaboration Engagement with federal, state, county, and non-gov. agencies and organizations Emphasis is often with federal agencies, because treaties are with the United States (government-to- government consultation) Relationships with states vary with management philosophy, priorities, history, etc. Engagement is often limited by internal capacity, short agency timelines, and project volume Eager to work at a staff-to-staff level to identify conservation challenges, brainstorm strategies, review project proposals, etc.

Conservation Interests Priorities may be based upon a variety of factors: Tribal T&E lists Tribal SCC lists Tribal Code Sacred or other culturally-important species, some of which may be relatively common Traditional Cultural Properties: gathering sites, weyekin sites, seasonal camps, travel routes, etc.