CA AB2225

Natural Resources Agency must conduct regional workshops with Native American tribes by January 1, 2024 to gather input on the state's collection, acquisition, storage, and use of traditional ecological knowledge.

Agency must adopt a policy by July 1, 2024 (in consultation with the Governor's tribal advisor) that incorporates traditional ecological knowledge into land conservation and management, including protections based on "cause no harm" and "free, prior, and informed consent" principles.

Policy must include direction and guidance for consulting with tribes, protecting traditional ecological knowledge from unauthorized use, and reimbursing tribes for their knowledge and services, including guidance on contracting.

Beginning July 1, 2024, all departments, boards, conservancies, and commissions under the Natural Resources Agency must incorporate the adopted policy into their guidelines, including grant programs for land conservation or management funding.

Agency must provide at least one draft policy to each Native American tribe for comment and opportunities for informal consultation before adoption.