Vol. 24, No. 4 February 17, 2016


Pamunkey Tribe Secures Recognition: May Change the Landscape for Historic Review Process

Virginia’s Pamunkey Tribe finally succeeded in its quest for federal recognition on January 28, 2016, when the Interior Department knocked down a last minute appeal to the status the tribe tentatively gained in July 2015. This means that consultation with the tribe is now required (rather than encouraged) on development projects that may impact their cultural resources and ancestral landscapes.
WSSI’s January 2016 Field Notes article provided an overview of the Pamunkey Tribe and its 35 year struggle for federal recognition. The Pamunkeys’ success paves the way for an easier application process for many smaller tribes, including 14 in Virginia and eight in Maryland.

WSSI cultural resources staff are prepared to assist our public and private clients with understanding the ramifications of federal recognition for Virginia and Maryland tribes on their projects. For more information, please contact Anna Maas, Boyd Sipe, or John Mullen.