Putting Tribal Sovereignty in Food SovereigntyEnterprise
What We Do?
Our Tribal Enterprise work is rooted in the belief that Tribal sovereignty includes the right to define, govern, and grow traditional food and agriculture systems. We tailor our services to meet each Tribe’s unique goals, priorities, and community vision.
Department of Agriculture Development
We assist Tribal Nations in creating and strengthening their own Tribal Departments of Agriculture. This work can take many forms, including defining organizational structures and staffing, developing strategic plans, designing programs, and creating Agriculture Resource Management Plans (ARMPs). Our goal is to help Tribes build departments that reflect their values and support sustainable, traditional food systems.
Tribal Conservation Districts
We support the formation and implementation of Tribal Conservation Districts Tribally driven entities dedicated to protecting and managing land and natural resources. Our services include legal guidance, community engagement, planning support, and other forms of technical assistance to meet the unique needs of each Tribe.
Food Safety Programs
Our team helps Tribal producers and communities strengthen food safety practices that balance regulatory requirements with traditional food systems. In partnership with the Produce Safety Alliance, we developed a Tribal Supplemental Curriculum for the PSA Grower Training, ensuring culturally relevant instruction while meeting FSMA Produce Safety Rule standards. We also provide in-person Grower Trainings and offer support for developing farm food safety plans.
Model Tribal Food and Agriculture Code
In partnership with our legal team, we offer access to customizable model codes that help Tribal Nations establish legal frameworks to govern food and agriculture. These codes provide a foundation for asserting Tribal jurisdiction, supporting local producers, and advancing food sovereignty through law and policy.
Helpful Resources
We are committed to tracking the impact of our work through measurable outcomes.
- Partnering with Tribal Nations to develop Departments of Agriculture.
- Training Tribal producers in food safety practices.
- Supporting the establishment of Tribal Conservation Districts.
Get Support / Connect with Us
Interested in exploring partnership opportunities? Contact our Tribal Enterprise Team at tribalag@uark.edu