Conserving this Nation’s fish and other aquatic resources cannot be successful without the partnership of Tribes; they manage or influence some of the most important aquatic habitats both on and off reservations. In addition, the Federal government and the Service have distinct and unique obligations toward Tribes based on trust responsibility, treaty provisions, and statutory mandates.

Engaging Tribal Youth

The US Fish & Wildlife Services Fisheries Program, in partnership with the National Conservation Training Center, hosted a celebration of the successes of the Fisheries Program’s Native American youth employment programs in Washington D.C. The week-long celebration provided ample opportunities for agencies to engage with tribal natural resource leaders in the development of a national tribal natural resources strategy.

More than 30 native youth from the 2010 Fisheries Youth Conservation Corps programs at Mescalero Apache (NM), Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (MT), and White Mountain Apache (AZ) joined with tribal elders, statesmen, and leaders of inter-tribal organizations from across Indian Country to celebrate the successful engagement of indigenous youth in fish and wildlife conservation activities and the promise and possibilities for the future.

These youth employment programs lead to advanced education opportunities and natural resource careers. The need for these programs is overwhelming, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Fisheries Program is committed to expanding natural resource employment opportunities for the nation’s indigenous youth.