Tribal Communication and Consultation Policy (TCCP)
CDFW, out of respect for tribal sovereignty and the unique and separate governmental status of tribes, seeks and encourages collaborative relationships with tribes, including for the co-management of resources, where appropriate. CDFW adopted a Tribal Communication and Consultation Policy (PDF) in 2014 to help establish and foster these relationships. The TCCP is the foundation of CDFW’s efforts to work cooperatively, communicate effectively, and consult with California Native American tribes. It establishes a formal process for engaging in government-to-government consultations. The TCCP implements and builds on Executive Order B-10-11 and the California Natural Resources Agency Tribal Consultation Policy. CDFW continues to build it's Office of Tribal Affairs, reinforcing the importance to engage and communicate with Tribes on the management of California's natural resources.
In order to have a meaningful Tribal Communication and Consultation Policy, the Director has appointed a Tribal Liaison for CDFW. The Tribal Liaison coordinates the communication and consultation efforts of CDFW, responds to tribal inquiries, and advises the Director on policy matters relating to tribal affairs. At the request of a tribe, the Tribal Liaison will help facilitate government-to-government consultations or other meetings with CDFW staff as appropriate.
CEQA/AB52 Tribal Notification Request Process
The California Environmental Quality Act, Public Resources Code section 21080.3.1, requires a lead agency to consult in certain instances with a California Native American tribe that is traditionally and culturally affiliated with the geographic area of a proposed project. The tribe must request that the lead agency provide it with formal notification of the proposed project and, upon receiving notice from the lead agency, must respond in writing within 30 days to request consultation.
If a tribe would like to request an opportunity for consultation under the California Environmental Quality Act when CDFW is a lead agency for a proposed project, the tribe should send its request to:
Tribal.Liaison@wildlife.ca.gov
- OR -
Tribal Liaison
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
PO BOX 944209
Sacramento, CA 94244-2090
Please include a list of California counties that include any portion of the tribe’s traditionally and culturally affiliated geographic area or a map of that area.
See the list of the tribes (PDF) that have requested an opportunity for consultation with CDFW under the California Environmental Quality Act.