The Chesapeake Bay Program Executive Council has approved a study to explore how Indigenous tribes could have a formal role in the federal-state partnership. The move follows the signing of the new Chesapeake Bay Agreement in December. The study will involve the Indigenous Conservation Council, which represents all federally recognized tribes in Virginia. Officials say the effort aims to ensure tribal voices are included in Bay restoration and conservation decisions. Results of the study are expected later this year, potentially shaping future policy and collaboration on Chesapeake Bay programs.
