The California Biodiversity Council recently welcomed the Native American Heritage Commission as a full member of their organization. The Commission's experience and knowledge of California Indian communities will facilitate the Council's addressing biodiversity issues.

In 1976, a statute mandated the creation of the Native American Heritage Commission. It was established because many burial sites were being destroyed for development of houses and construction of freeways. Many human remains were being destroyed by heavy equipment, collected by curiosity seekers, or left on the surface of the ground to bleach out in the open air. Also, many burial sites were being vandalized for their artifacts and human remains.

One of the prime responsibilities of the Commission is to identify a most likely descendent when Native American human remains are discovered outside a cemetery. Because of the term "most likely descendent," the Commission deals with all California Indian people — not just the tribes that are federally recognized. In addition to working with all California Indian people, the Commission has constant contact with coroners, developers, planners, and state, federal, and local agencies. The Commission has always facilitated the involvement of the appropriate Native American groups when questions of mitigation arise.

This familiarity and working relationship with various Native American organizations in California is vitally important to the Council. The State of California has 111 federally recognized tribal governments and approximately 40 groups applying for federal recognition. Not only are there many tribal governments, the diversity is great. Tribes are from the deserts, mountains, valleys, and coastal areas. California has seven major language groups and six major cultural zones. The addition of the Commission will help the Council to improve its ability to respond to these differences.

The Commission has nine positions appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. Larry Myers, NAHC Executive Secretary, will serve as the representative to the Council.

California tribes have been and continue to be an important part of the California landscape. The Native American Heritage Commission looks forward to working with the CBC on addressing biodiversity issues.