Chapter 6 Conservation Goals and Priorities
US Federal government. The Federal government has officially recognized 587 Native American tribes. Not all Indian Tribes historically living in the United States have been recognized by the Federal government; however, these non-recognized tribes may have state government recognition. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) is currently the only federally recognized tribe in North Carolina. Figure 6-1 represents an estimate of overlapping ancestral boundaries of Indian Tribe communities historically occurring in North Carolina (Native Land Digital 2024 ) .
Figure 6.6-1. Ancestral Indian Tribe Territories in North Carolina (Native Land Digital 2024) .
6.6.2 North Carolina’s Indigenous People The North Carolina Commission on Indian Affairs (NCCIA) was established in 1977 with a purpose of dealing fairly and effectively with Native American affairs; bringing resources together for the benefit of the state’s Indian citizens; providing aid, protection, and prevent undue hardships; providing social assistance and economic development assistance; promoting recognition of Indian rights to pursue cultural and religious traditions that are sacred and meaningful; and holding land in trust for the benefit of state recognized tribes (does not apply to federal recognized tribes). See NC General Statute Part 15 Sections 143B-404 to -411 and NC Administrative Code 01 NCAC 15 Sections .0200 to .0214. The NCCIA website https://www.doa.nc.gov/divisions/american-indian-affairs/map-nc-tribal-communities provides more information.
6 - 54
2025 NC Wildlife Action Plan
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator