Council on Native American Farming and Ranching
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Council on Native American Farming and Ranching (CNAFR) was established to address the unique challenges faced by Native American agricultural producers. It provides guidance to the USDA on how to improve access, equity, and opportunities for Native American farmers and ranchers in federal agricultural programs.
Mission
The mission of CNAFR is to ensure that Native American agricultural producers have fair access to USDA programs and services. It works to advocate for policies that respect tribal sovereignty, foster economic development, and promote sustainable agricultural practices among Native communities.[1]
Parent organization
CNAFR operates under the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), specifically within the Office of Tribal Relations, which is dedicated to strengthening relations between USDA and Tribal Nations.[2]
Legislation
The council was created as part of the Keepseagle v. Vilsack settlement agreement, which aimed at resolving discrimination claims against Native American farmers and ranchers by the USDA. This settlement was authorized under the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA).[3]
Partners
- Tribal governments and organizations
- Native American agricultural producers
- Non-profit organizations focused on Native American issues
- State and federal agencies involved in agriculture and Native American affairs[4]
Number of employees
CNAFR consists of 15 members appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture, representing a diverse array of tribal, agricultural, and community interests.
Organization structure
The council includes members from various Native American tribes and sectors, including farming and ranching, to ensure comprehensive advice.
Leader
The council is led by a Chair, elected by the members to guide its activities and report to the USDA.
Divisions
CNAFR does not have formal divisions but may form subcommittees:
- Subcommittees could focus on specific USDA programs, land tenure issues, or agricultural education.
List of programs
- Recommendations to improve access to USDA programs for Native American producers
- Advising on tribal food sovereignty initiatives
- Evaluating the effectiveness of USDA outreach to Native communities
Last total enacted budget
The budget for CNAFR is not publicly specified; it operates within the USDA's budget for tribal relations and advisory activities.
Staff
CNAFR does not have dedicated staff; support is provided by USDA personnel in the Office of Tribal Relations.
Funding
Funding for CNAFR's activities is part of the USDA's budget allocated to tribal relations.
Services provided
CNAFR provides advisory services aimed at enhancing the participation of Native American farmers and ranchers in USDA programs, advocating for policy changes, and fostering economic development in Native agricultural communities.
Regulations overseen
While not directly overseeing regulations, CNAFR's recommendations can influence how USDA policies and programs are tailored or modified to better serve Native American agricultural interests.
Headquarters address
1400 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20250, United States
History
Formed in the wake of the Keepseagle settlement, CNAFR has been pivotal in addressing systemic issues faced by Native American farmers and ranchers within USDA programs, advocating for equity and inclusion since its inception.[5]
External links
References
- ↑ U.S. Department of Agriculture. "Council on Native American Farming and Ranching". USDA, https://www.usda.gov/tribalrelations/cnafr (accessed February 8, 2025).
- ↑ U.S. Department of Agriculture. "Office of Tribal Relations". USDA, https://www.usda.gov/tribalrelations (accessed February 8, 2025).
- ↑ U.S. Department of Agriculture. "Council on Native American Farming and Ranching". USDA, https://www.usda.gov/tribalrelations/cnafr (accessed February 8, 2025).
- ↑ U.S. Department of Agriculture. "Council on Native American Farming and Ranching". USDA, https://www.usda.gov/tribalrelations/cnafr (accessed February 8, 2025).
- ↑ U.S. Department of Agriculture. "Council on Native American Farming and Ranching". USDA, https://www.usda.gov/tribalrelations/cnafr (accessed February 8, 2025).