Program Overview
The Gila River Indian Community is home to a wide variety of wildlife and diverse habitat. The cultural significance and value of various species and their associated habitat is an important part of the Community. The rivers and riparian areas that they support are a direct connection to the way of life of the Pima (O’odham) and Maricopa (Pee Posh or Piipaash) people. Today, the Wildlife and Ecosystems Management Program is responsible for managing, protecting, and conserving these areas that continue to occur within the Community. The Program does this by implementing existing laws (Tribal and Federal) and by working closely with other Community Departments and outside agencies when necessary.
Our Wildlife Program collaborates with the following Departments/Agencies:
- GRIC Police Department/Rangers (GRPD)
- GRIC Tribal Historic Preservation Office (THPO)
- GRIC Office of General Counsel (OGC)
- GRIC Land Use Planning and Zoning (LUPZ)
- Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA)
- Arizona Game and FIsh Department (AZGF)
- US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
Existing laws/agreements used for management of wildlife and habitat on the Community:
- GRIC Pee Posh Wetlands Conservation Easement (GR-129-10)
- GRIC Water Policy
- GRIC Native Plants Ordinance (GR-03-90)
- Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act
- Endangered Species Act
- Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918