The Caltrans Division of Environmental Analysis/Cultural Studies Office is surveying local and regional agencies in an effort to establish more consistent statewide policies regarding the participation and reimbursement of California Native American Tribes in project environmental and cultural studies, including tribal monitoring of transportation activities.

Providing reimbursements to culturally affiliated tribes for their participation during project delivery has been inconsistently applied throughout the state. These inconsistencies often strain diplomatic relationships between tribes, Caltrans, and local/regional agencies, and adversely impact transportation project delivery efforts.
 
Caltrans is seeking to create clear and consistent guidance for how and when to reimburse tribal monitors/experts, including the development of a toolbox of suitable reimbursement mechanisms and direction for determining fair and reasonable reimbursement rates. 
 
Your response to this five-question survey is confidential and greatly appreciated, as it will assist Caltrans in advancing the development of guidance for broad mutual benefit among all parties.

For an overview of current guidance and procedures on this topic, please see the Caltrans FAQ on Native American Consultation & Consideration of Tribal Traditional Knowledge.