Natural Resources Department

Stewardship of Our Land, Water, and Wildlife

Our Mission

The Natural Resources Department is dedicated to the sustainable management and protection of the Confederated Tribes' natural resources. We work to ensure that our lands, waters, fish, and wildlife are preserved for future generations while supporting the cultural, economic, and subsistence needs of tribal members.

What We Do

Our department oversees comprehensive natural resource management across the reservation, including fisheries, forestry, wildlife, range, water, and air quality. We implement science-based management practices that honor traditional ecological knowledge and tribal values.

Key Services & Programs

🎣 Fisheries Management

Monitoring and enhancing fish populations in tribal waters, including salmon and steelhead restoration programs.

🌲 Forestry Operations

Sustainable timber management, forest health monitoring, and wildfire prevention.

🦌 Wildlife Management

Protecting and managing big game, small game, and non-game species across tribal lands.

💧 Water Resources

Protecting water quality, managing water rights, and ensuring clean water for all.

🌾 Range & Agriculture

Managing grazing lands and supporting agricultural operations.

📋 Permits & Licenses

Issuing fishing, hunting, camping, and woodcutting permits.

Permits & Recreation

The Natural Resources Department issues various permits for recreational activities on tribal lands:

  • Fishing Permits: Annual and daily permits for tribal and non-tribal members
  • Hunting Permits: Big game and small game hunting licenses
  • Camping Permits: Overnight camping in designated areas
  • Woodcutting Permits: Firewood gathering permits
  • Burn Permits: Agricultural and debris burning permits

Purchase Permits Online

Get your fishing, hunting, and recreation permits through our online portal.

Go to Permits Portal

Conservation Initiatives

We are actively engaged in numerous conservation projects:

  • Salmon and steelhead restoration in the Deschutes River Basin
  • Habitat restoration and enhancement projects
  • Climate change adaptation strategies
  • Traditional food and medicine plant monitoring
  • Collaborative watershed management