Trinidad Rancheria Forestry Program

Traditionally, our people subsisted on the acorns, mushrooms, wild herbs and teas of the redwood forests and the large game animals such as the elk and deer that called the spaces between these majestic trees home. The Rancheria is dedicated to protecting, preserving, and enhancing the forest habitat and its resources, including those of cultural significance, for the benefit of the Tribal community and the broader North Coast community. Our efforts to coordinate, manage, plan, oversee, and monitor  forestry activities are increasingly important as our local redwoods are challenged by a rapidly changing climate and urban development. 

Vision 

To serve as an example of forest stewardship and sustainable management through the application of Traditional Knowledge and Indigenous values to ensure the health and vitality of our natural lands, wildlife, and Tribal community. 

Mission

We are dedicated to the sustainable management and protection of Tribal forest lands, honoring traditional and cultural practices, fostering ecosystem and community resilience, and conserving the forest landscapes for generations to come.

Our Staff

Forestry Program Focus Areas

  • Invasive Species Management

    This focus area is about controlling and eradicating invasive plant species to allow native flora and fauna to thrive. Projects seek to remove Pampas Grass, English Ivy, Cape Ivy, Scotch Broom, Himalayan Blackberry, Thistle, Knotweed and Cotoneaster invasive species from the Trinidad Rancheria lands.

  • Habitat Restoration

    This focus area is about restoring degraded habitats to a healthy state to promote biodiversity, cultural uses, and forest health. Projects seek to restore riparian areas with native vegetation that have been replaced by invasive species.

  • Land Acquisition

    This focus area includes initiatives to acquire land for conservation, cultural preservation, or sustainable resource management. Projects aim to expand the forestland holdings of the Trinidad Rancheria and assert our Tribe’s sovereignty.

  • Forest Management

    This focus area encompasses the planning and implementation of projects to sustainably manage forest resources, while balancing ecological, economic, and cultural values. Projects are designed to elevate the long-term health and resilience of Tribal natural and cultural resources for the social and economic benefit of our Tribal community.

  • Hazardous Fuels Reduction

    This focus area is about planning, implementing, and monitoring projects to reduce the risk of wildfires, which is increasing with warmer temperature as a result of climate change. Projects seek to research and establish wildfire mitigation strategies including strategic thinning, mulching, brush clearing, and controlled burns.