The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced on June 28th, 2023 that it will establish a Tribal Advisory Committee in efforts to ensure tribal perspectives are represented, and to service tribal governments, citizens, and tribal nations. The committee is soliciting nominations to join the Tribal Advisory Committee. 

The Tribal Advisory Committee will provide advice and guidance to the Secretary of Agriculture regarding matters related to tribal and Indian affairs. The committee will provide invaluable recommendations on USDA programs and policies, including an annual report to Congress. 

The Tribal Advisory Committee will be supported by representatives from the USDA Office of Tribal Relations and the Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs in the Department of the Interior, with the Office of Tribal Relations serving as the administrative lead. 

USDA is encouraging nominations from federally recognized tribes, Alaska Native Corporations, tribal organizations, or organizations with expertise in tribal food and agricultural issues. Membership appointments will be made by the Secretary of Agriculture and the Chair and Ranking Member of the House Committee on Agriculture, Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. 

All nomination instructions and information can be found in the Federal Register :: Intent To Establish the Tribal Advisory Committee and Solicitation of Nominations for Membership to the Committee). The nomination period is open through August 14, 2023. 

Acting Director of Tribal Relations, Deb DeMontier, said in a press release:

“While USDA will continue to consult with tribes on a regular basis, this Tribal Advisory Committee is an important partner in the Office of Tribal Relations mission of advising the Secretary on tribal issues.”

The Tribal Advisory Committee is required to meet at least twice a year and is expected to meet quarterly. Committee membership reflects diversity in expertise across regions, tribes, and the agriculture industry. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov.

_{Photo at top: USDA office in Washington, DC. Photo courtesy of Adam Fagen via Flickr Creative Commons.}