Title 25—Indians--Volume 1
PART 161—NAVAJO PARTITIONED LANDS GRAZING PERMITS
§ 161.1   What definitions do I need to know?
Agricultural Act means the American Indians Agricultural Resource Management Act (AIARMA) of December 3, 1993 (107 Stat. 2011, 25 U.S.C. 3701 et seq. ), and amended on November 2, 1994 (108 Stat. 4572).
Agricultural resource management plan means a 10-year plan developed through the public review process specifying the tribal management goals and objectives developed for tribal agricultural and grazing resources. Plans developed and approved under AIARMA will govern the management and administration of Indian agricultural resources and Indian agricultural lands by BIA and Indian tribal governments.
Allocation means the number of animal units authorized in each grazing permit.
Animal Unit (AU) means one adult cow and her 6-month-old calf or the equivalent thereof based on comparable forage consumption. Thus as defined in the following:
(1) One adult sheep or goat is equivalent to one-fifth (0.20) of an AU;
(2) One adult horse, mule, or burro is equivalent to one and one quarter (1.25) AU; or
(3) One adult llama is equivalent to three-fifths (0.60) of an AU.
Appeal means a written request for review of an action or the inaction of an official of the Bureau of Indian Affairs that is claimed to adversely affect the interested party making the request.
Appeal Bond means a bond posted upon filing of an appeal that provides a security or guaranty if an appeal creates a delay in implementing our decision that could cause a significant and measurable financial loss to another party.
BIA means the Bureau of Indian Affairs within the Department of the Interior.
Bond means security for the performance of certain permit obligations, as furnished by the permittee, or a guaranty of such performance as furnished by a third-party surety.
Business day means Monday through Friday, excluding federally or tribally recognized holidays.
Carrying capacity means the number of livestock and/or wildlife, which may be sustained on a management unit compatible with management objectives for the unit.
Concurrence means the written agreement of the Navajo Nation with a policy, action, decision or finding submitted for consideration by BIA.
Conservation practice refers to any management measure taken to maintain or improve the condition, productivity, sustainability, or usability of targeted resources.
Customary Use Area refers to an area to which an individual traditionally confined his or her traditional grazing use and occupancy and/or an area traditionally inhabited by his or her ancestors.
Day means a calendar day, unless otherwise specified.
Enumeration means the list of persons living on and identified improvements located within the Former Joint Use Area obtained through interviews conducted by BIA in 1974 and 1975.
Former Joint Use Area means the area that was divided between the Navajo Nation and the Hopi Tribe by the Judgment of Partition issued April 18, 1979, by the United States District Court for the District of Arizona. This area was established by the United States District Court for the District of Arizona in Healing v. Jones, 210 F. Supp. 125 (1962), aff'd. 373 U.S. 758 (1963) and is located:
(1) Inside the Executive Order area (Executive Order of December 16, 1882); and
(2) Outside Land Management District 6.
Grazing Committee means the District Grazing Committee established by the Navajo Nation Council, that is responsible for enforcing and implementing tribal grazing regulations on the Navajo Partitioned Lands.
Grazing Permit means a revocable privilege granted in writing and limited to entering on and utilizing forage by domestic livestock on a specified range unit. The term as used herein shall include authorizations issued to enable the crossing or trailing of domestic livestock within an assigned range unit.
Historical Land Use see Customary Use Area.
Improvement means any structure or excavation to facilitate management of the range for livestock, such as: Fences, cattle guards, spring developments, windmills, stock ponds, and corrals.
Livestock means horses, cattle, sheep, goats, mules, burros, donkeys, and llamas.
Management Unit is a subdivision of a geographic area where unique resource conditions, goals, concerns, or opportunities require specific and separate management planning.
Navajo Nation means all offices/entities/programs under the direct jurisdiction of the Navajo Nation Government.
Navajo Partitioned Lands (NPL) means that portion of the Former Joint Use Area awarded to the Navajo Nation under the Judgment of Partition issued April 18, 1979, by the United States District Court for the District of Arizona, and now a separate administrative entity within the Navajo Indian Reservation.
Non-Concurrence means the official written denial of approval by the Navajo Nation of a policy, action, decision, or finding submitted for consideration by BIA.
Range management plan is a statement of management objectives for grazing, farming, or other agriculture management including contract stipulations defining required uses, operations, and improvements.
Range Unit means a tract of land designated as a separate management subdivision for the administration of grazing.
Resident means a person who lives on the Navajo Partitioned Lands.
Resources Committee means the oversight committee for the Division of Natural Resources within the Navajo Nation Government. The Resources Committee of the Navajo Nation Council to whom authority is delegated to exercise the powers of the Navajo Nation with regards to the range development and grazing management of the Navajo Partitioned Lands.
Secretary means the Secretary of the Interior or his or her designated representative.
Settlement Act means the Navajo Hopi Settlement Act of December 22, 1974 (88 Stat. 1712, 25 U.S.C. 64d et seq., as amended).
Sheep Unit means an adult ewe with un-weaned lamb. It is also the basic unit in which forage allocations are expressed.
Special land use means all land usage for purposes other than for grazing withdrawn in accordance with Navajo Nation laws, Federal laws, and BIA policies and procedures, such as but not limited to: Housing permits, farm leases, governmental facilities, rights-of-way, schools, parks, business leases, etc.
Stocking rate means the maximum number of sheep units, or animal units authorized to graze on a particular pasture, management unit, or range unit during a specified period of time.
Trespass means any unauthorized occupancy, grazing, use of, or action on the Navajo Partitioned Lands.
§ 161.2   What are the Secretary's authorities under this part?
(a) Under Section 640d-9(e) of the Settlement Act, lands partitioned under the Settlement Act are subject to the jurisdiction of the tribe to whom partitioned. The laws of the tribe apply to the partitioned lands as in paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) of this section.
(1) Effective October 6, 1980:
(i) All conservation practices on the Navajo Partitioned Lands, including control and range restoration activities, must be coordinated and executed with the concurrence of the Navajo Nation; and
(ii) All grazing and range restoration matters on the Navajo Reservation lands must be administered by BIA, under applicable laws and regulations.
(2) Effective April 18, 1981, the Navajo Nation has jurisdiction and authority over any lands partitioned to it and over all persons on these lands. This jurisdiction and authority apply:
(i) To the same extent as is applicable to those other portions of the Navajo reservation; and
(ii) Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, except where there is a conflict with the laws and regulations referred to in paragraph (a) of this section.
(b) Under the Agricultural Act, the Secretary is authorized to:
(1) Carry out the trust responsibility of the United States and promote Indian tribal self-determination by providing for management of Indian agricultural lands and renewable resources consistent with tribal goals and priorities for conservation, multiple use, and sustained yield;
(2) Take part in managing Indian agricultural lands, with the participation of the land's beneficial owners, in a manner consistent with the Secretary's trust responsibility and with the objectives of the beneficial owners;
(3) Provide for the development and management of Indian agricultural lands; and
(4) Improve the expertise and technical abilities of Indian tribes and their members by increasing the educational and training opportunities available to Indian people and communities in the practical, technical, and professional aspects of agricultural and land management.
§ 161.3   What is the purpose of this part?
The purpose of this part is to describe the goals and objectives of grazing management on the Navajo Partitioned Lands:
(a) To respect and recognize the importance that livestock and land have in sustaining Navajo tradition and culture.
(b) Provide resources to rehabilitate range resources in the preservation of forage, soil, and water on the Navajo Partitioned Lands;
(c) Monitor the recovery of those resources where they have deteriorated;
(d) Protect, conserve, utilize, and maintain the highest productive potential on the Navajo Partitioned Lands through the application of sound conservation practices and techniques. These practices and techniques will be applied to planning, development, inventorying, classification, and management of agricultural resources;
(e) Increase production and expand the diversity and availability of agricultural products for subsistence, income, and employment of Indians, through the development of agricultural resources on the Navajo Partitioned Lands;
(f) Manage agricultural resources consistent with integrated resource management plans in order to protect and maintain other values such as wildlife, fisheries, cultural resources, recreation and to regulate water runoff and minimize soil erosion;
(g) Enable the Navajo Nation to maximize the potential benefits available to its members from their lands by providing technical assistance, training, and education in conservation practices, management and economics of agribusiness, sources and use of credit and marketing of agricultural products, and other applicable subject areas;
(h) Develop the Navajo Partitioned Lands to promote self-sustaining communities; and
(i) Assist the Navajo Nation with permitting the Navajo Partitioned Lands, consistent with prudent management and conservation practices, and community goals as expressed in the tribal management plans and appropriate tribal ordinances.
§ 161.4   To what lands does this part apply?
The grazing regulations in this part apply to the Navajo Partitioned Lands within the boundaries of the Navajo Indian Reservation held in trust by the United States for the Navajo Nation. Contiguous areas outside of the Navajo Partitioned Lands may be included under this part for management purposes by BIA in consultation with the affected permittees and other affected land users, and with the concurrence of the Resources Committee. Other affected land users include those holding approved assignments, permits, leases, and rights of way for activities such as: home sites, farm plots, roads, utilities, businesses, and schools.
§ 161.5   Can BIA waive the application of this part?
Yes. If a provision of this part conflicts with the objectives of the agricultural resource management plan provided for in § 161.200, or with a tribal law, BIA may waive the application of this part unless the waiver would either:
(a) Constitute a violation of a federal statute or judicial decision; or
(b) Conflict with BIA's general trust responsibility under federal law.
§ 161.6   Are there any other restrictions on information given to BIA?
Information that the BIA collects in connection with permits for NPL in sections 161.102, 161.206, 161.301, 161.302, 161.304, 161.402, 161.500, 161.502, 161.604, 161.606, 161.703, 161.704, 161.708, 161.717, 161.800, 161.801, and 161.802 have been reviewed and approved by the Office of Management and Budget. The OMB Control Number assigned is 1076-0162. Please note that a federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and you are not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number.
§ 161.100   Do tribal laws apply to grazing permits?
Navajo Nation laws generally apply to land under the jurisdiction of the Navajo Nation, except to the extent that those Navajo Nation laws are inconsistent with this part or other applicable federal law. This part may be superseded or modified by Navajo Nation laws with Secretarial approval, however, so long as:
(a) The Navajo Nation laws are consistent with the enacting Navajo Nation's governing documents;
(b) The Navajo Nation has notified BIA of the superseding or modifying effect of the Navajo Nation laws;
(c) The superseding or modifying of the regulation would not violate a federal statute or judicial decision, or conflict with the Secretary's general trust responsibility under federal law; and
(d) The superseding or modifying of the regulation applies only to Navajo Partitioned Lands.
§ 161.101   How will tribal laws be enforced on the Navajo Partitioned Lands?
(a) Unless prohibited by federal law, BIA will recognize and comply with tribal laws regulating activities on the Navajo Partitioned Lands, including tribal laws relating to land use, environmental protection, and historic or cultural preservation.
(b) While the Navajo Nation is primarily responsible for enforcing tribal laws pertaining to the Navajo Partitioned Lands, BIA will:
(1) Assist in the enforcement of Navajo Nation laws;
(2) Provide notice of Navajo Nation laws to persons or entities undertaking activities on the Navajo Partitioned Lands; and
(3) Require appropriate federal officials to appear in tribal forums when requested by the tribe, so long as the appearance would not:
(i) Be inconsistent with the restrictions on employee testimony set forth at 43 CFR part 2, subpart E;
(ii) Constitute a waiver of the sovereign immunity of the United States; or
(iii) Authorize or result in a review of (BIA) actions by the tribal court.
(c) Where the provisions in this subpart are inconsistent with a Navajo Nation law, but the provisions cannot be superseded or modified by the Navajo Nation laws under § 161.5, BIA may waive the provisions under part 1 of 25 CFR, so long as the new waiver does not violate a federal statute or judicial decision or conflict with the Secretary's trust responsibility under federal law.
§ 161.102   What notifications are required that tribal laws apply to grazing permits on the Navajo Partitioned Lands?
(a) The Navajo Nation must provide BIA with an official copy of any tribal law or tribal policy that relates to this part. The Navajo Nation must notify BIA of the content and effective dates of tribal laws.
(b) BIA will then notify affected permittees of the effect of the Navajo Nation law on their grazing permits. BIA will:
(1) Provide individual written notice; or
(2) Post public notice. This notice will be posted at the tribal community building, U.S. Post Office, announced on local radio station, and/or published in the local newspaper nearest to the permitted Navajo Partitioned Lands where activities are occurring.
§ 161.200   Is an Indian agricultural resource management plan required?
(a) Yes, Navajo Partitioned Lands must be managed in accordance with the goals and objectives in the agricultural resource management plan developed by the Navajo Nation, or by BIA in close consultation with the Navajo Nation, under the Agricultural Act.
(b) The 10-year agricultural resource management and monitoring plan must be developed through public meetings and completed within 3 years of the initiation of the planning activity. The plan must be based on the public meeting records and existing survey documents, reports, and other research from Federal agencies, tribal community colleges, and land grant universities. When completed, the plan must:
(1) Determine available agricultural resources;
(2) Identify specific tribal agricultural resource goals and objectives;
(3) Establish management objectives for the resources;
(4) Define critical values of the tribe and its members and provide identified resource management objectives; and
(5) Identify actions to be taken to reach established objectives.
(c) Where the provisions in this subpart are inconsistent with the Navajo Nation's agricultural resource management plan, the Secretary may waive the provisions under part 1 of this title, so long as the waiver does not violate a federal statute or judicial decision or conflict with the Secretary's trust responsibility under federal law.
§ 161.201   Is environmental compliance required?
Actions taken by BIA under this part must comply with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq., applicable provisions of the Council on Environmental Quality, 40 CFR part 1500, and applicable tribal laws and provisions of the Navajo Nation Environmental Policy Act CAP-47-95, where the tribal laws and provisions do not violate a federal or judicial decision or conflict with the Secretary's trust responsibility under federal law.
§ 161.202   How are range units established?
(a) BIA, with the concurrence of the Navajo Nation, will establish range units on the Navajo Partitioned Lands to provide unified areas for which range management plans can be developed to improve and maintain soil and forage resources. Physical land features, watersheds, drainage patterns, vegetation, soil, resident concentration, problem areas, historical land use patterns, chapter boundaries, special land uses and comprehensive land use planning will be considered in the determination of range unit boundaries.
(b) BIA may modify range unit boundaries with the concurrence of the Navajo Nation. This may include small and/or isolated portions of Navajo Partitioned Lands contiguous to Navajo tribal lands in order to develop more efficient land management.
§ 161.203   Are range management plans required?
Yes. BIA will:
(a) Consult with the Navajo Nation in planning conservation practices, including grazing control and range restoration activities for the Navajo Partitioned Lands.
(b) Develop range management plans with the concurrence of the Navajo Nation.
(c) Approve the range management plans, after concurrence with the Navajo Nation, and the implementation of the plan may begin immediately. The plan will address, but is not limited to, the following issues:
(1) Goals for improving vegetative productivity and diversity;
(2) Stocking rates;
(3) Grazing schedules;
(4) Wildlife management;
(5) Needs assessment for range and livestock improvements;
(6) Schedule for operation and maintenance of existing range improvements and development for cooperative funded projects;
(7) Cooperation in the implementation of range studies;
(8) Control of livestock diseases and parasites;
(9) Fencing or other structures necessary to implement any of the other provisions in the range management plan;
(10) Special land uses; and
(11) Water development and management.
§ 161.204   How are carrying capacities and stocking rates established?
(a) BIA, with the concurrence of the Navajo Nation, will prescribe, review and adjust the carrying capacity of each range unit by determining the number of livestock, and/or wildlife, that can be grazed on the Navajo Partitioned Lands without inducing damage to vegetation or related resources on each range unit and the season or seasons of use to achieve the objectives of the agricultural resource management plan and range unit management plan.
(b) BIA, with the concurrence of the Navajo Nation, will establish the stocking rate of each range or management unit. The stocking rate will be based on forage production, range utilization, the application of land management practices, and range improvements in place to achieve uniformity of grazing under sustained yield management principles on each range or management unit.
(c) BIA will review the carrying capacity of the grazing units on a continuing basis and, in consultation with the Grazing Committee and affected permittees, adjust the stocking rate for each range or management unit as conditions warrant.
(d) Any adjustments in stocking rates will be applied equally to each permittee within the management unit requiring adjustment.
§ 161.205   How are range improvements treated?
(a) Improvements placed on the Navajo Partitioned Lands will be considered affixed to the land unless specifically exempted in the permit. No improvement may be constructed or removed from Navajo Partitioned Lands without the written consent of BIA and the Navajo Nation.
(b) Before undertaking an improvement, BIA, Navajo Nation and permittee will negotiate who will complete and maintain improvements. The improvement agreement will be reflected in the permit.
§ 161.206   What must a permittee do to protect livestock from exposure to disease?
In accordance with applicable law, permittees must:
(a) Vaccinate livestock;
(b) Treat all livestock exposed to or infected with contagious or infectious diseases; and
(c) Restrict the movement of exposed or infected livestock.
§ 161.207   What livestock are authorized to graze?
The following livestock are authorized to graze on the Navajo Partitioned Lands: horses, cattle, sheep, goats, mules, burros, donkeys, and llamas.
§ 161.300   When is a permit needed to authorize grazing use?
Unless otherwise provided for in this part, any person or legal entity, including an independent legal entity owned and operated by the Navajo Nation, must obtain a permit under this part before using Navajo Partitioned Land for grazing purposes.
§ 161.301   What will a grazing permit contain?
(a) All grazing permits will contain the following provisions:
(1) Name of permit holder;
(2) Range management plan requirements;
(3) Applicable stocking rate;
(4) Range unit number and description of the permitted area;
(5) Animal identification requirements ( i.e. , brand, microchip, freeze brand, earmark, tattoo, etc.);
(6) Term of permit (including beginning and ending dates of the term allowed, as well as an option to renew, or extend);
(7) A provision stating that the permittee agrees that he or she will not use, cause, or allow to be used any part of the permitted area for any unlawful conduct or purpose;
(8) A provision stating that the permit authorizes no other privilege than grazing use;
(9) A provision stating that no person is allowed to hold a grazing permit in more than one range unit of the Navajo Partitioned Lands, unless the customary use area extends beyond the range unit boundary;
(10) A provision reserving a right of entry by BIA and the Navajo Nation for range survey, inventory and inspection or compliance purposes;
(11) A provision prohibiting the creation of a nuisance, any illegal activity, and negligent use or waste of resources;
(12) A provision stating how trespass proceeds are to be distributed;
(13) A provision stating whether mediation will be used in the event of a permit violation; and
(14) A provision stating that the permit cannot be subdivided once it has been issued.
(b) Grazing permits will contain any other provision that in the discretion of BIA with the concurrence of the Navajo Nation is necessary to protect the land and/or resources.
(c) Grazing permits containing any special land use authorized under § 161.503 of this part must be included on the permit.
§ 161.302   What restrictions are placed on grazing permits?
Only a grazing permit issued under this part authorizes the grazing of livestock within the Navajo Partitioned Lands. Grazing permits are subject to the following restrictions:
(a) Grazing permits should not be issued for less than 2 animal units (10 sheep units) or exceed 70 animal units (350 sheep units). However, all grazing permits issued before the adoption of this regulation will be honored and reissued with an adjusted stocking rate if the permittee meets the eligibility and priority criteria found in § 161.400 of this part, and only if the carrying capacity and stocking rate as determined under §§ 161.204 and 161.403 allows.
(b) A grazing permit will be issued in the name of one individual.
(c) Only two horses will be permitted on a grazing permit.
(d) Grazing permits may contain additional conditions authorized by Federal law or Navajo Nation law.
(e) A state/tribal brand only identifies the owner of the livestock, but does not authorize the grazing of any livestock within the Navajo Partitioned Lands.
(f) A permit cannot be subdivided once it has been issued.
§ 161.303   How long is a permit valid?
After its initial issuance, each grazing permit is valid for one year beginning on the following January 1. All permits will be automatically renewed annually if the permittee is in compliance with all applicable laws including tallies and permit requirements.
§ 161.304   Must a permit be recorded?
A permit must be recorded by BIA following approval under this subpart.
§ 161.305   When is a decision by BIA regarding a permit effective?
BIA approval of a permit will be effective immediately upon signature, notwithstanding any appeal, which may be filed under part 2 of this title. Copies of the approved permit will be provided to the permittee and made available to the Navajo Nation upon request.
§ 161.306   When are permits effective?
Unless otherwise provided in the permit, a permit will be effective on the date on which BIA approves the permit.
§ 161.307   When may a permittee commence grazing on Navajo Partitioned Land?
The permittee may graze on Navajo Partitioned Land on the date specified in the permit as the beginning date of the term, but not before BIA approves the permit.
§ 161.308   Must a permittee comply with standards of conduct if granted a permit?
Yes. Permittees are expected to:
(a) Conduct grazing operations in accordance with the principles of sustained yield management, agricultural resource management planning, sound conservation practices, and other community goals as expressed in Navajo Nation laws, agricultural resource management plans, and similar sources.
(b) Comply with all applicable laws, ordinances, rules, provisions, and other legal requirements. Permittee must also pay all applicable penalties that may be assessed for non-compliance.
(c) Fulfill all financial permit obligations owed to the Navajo Nation and the United States.
(d) Conduct only those activities authorized by the permit.
§ 161.400   What are the criteria for reissuing grazing permits?
(a) The Navajo Nation may prescribe eligibility requirements for grazing allocations within 180 days following the effective date of this part. BIA will prescribe the eligibility requirements after expiration of the 180-day period if the Navajo Nation does not prescribe eligibility requirements, or if satisfactory action is not taken by the Navajo Nation.
(b) With the written concurrence of the Navajo Nation, BIA will prescribe the following eligibility requirements, where only those applicants who meet the following criteria are eligible to receive permits to graze livestock:
(1) Those who had grazing permits on Navajo Partitioned Lands under 25 CFR part 167 (formerly part 152), and whose permits were canceled on October 14, 1973;
(2) Those who are listed in the 1974 and 1975 Former Joint Use Area enumeration;
(3) Those who are current residents on Navajo Partitioned Lands; and
(4) Those who have a customary use area on Navajo Partitioned Lands.
(c) Permits re-issued to applicants under this section may be granted by BIA based on the following priority criteria:
(1) The first priority will go to individuals currently the age of 65 or older; and
(2) The second priority will go to individuals under the age of 65.
(d) Upon the recommendation of the NPL District Grazing Committee and Resources Committee, BIA or Navajo Nation will have authority to waive one of the eligibility or priority criteria.
§ 161.401   Will new permits be granted after the initial reissuance of permits?
(a) Following the initial reissuance of permits under § 161.400, the Navajo Nation can grant new permits, subject to BIA approval, if:
(1) Additional permits become available; and
(2) The carrying capacity and stocking rates as determined under §§ 161.204 and 161.403 allow.
(b) The Navajo Nation must inform BIA if it grants any permits under paragraph (a) of this section.
§ 161.402   What are the procedures for reissuing permits?
BIA, with the concurrence of the Navajo Nation, will reissue grazing permits only to individuals that meet the eligibility requirements in § 161.400. Responsibilities for reissuance of grazing permits are as follows:
(a) BIA will develop a complete list consisting of all former permittees whose permits were cancelled and the number of animal units previously authorized in prior grazing permits. This list will be provided to the Grazing Committee and Resources Committee for their review. BIA will also provide the Grazing Committee and Resources Committee with the current carrying capacity and stocking rate for each range unit within the Navajo Partitioned Lands, as determined under § 161.204.
(b) Within 90 days of receipt, the Grazing Committee will review the list developed under § 161.402(a), and make recommendations to the Resources Committee for the granting of grazing permits according to the eligibility and priority criteria in § 161.400.
(c) If the Grazing Committee fails to make its recommendation to the Resources Committee within 90 days after receiving the list of potential permittees, BIA will submit its recommendations to the Resources Committee.
(d) The Resources Committee will review and concur with the list of proposed permit grantees, and then forward a final list to BIA for the reissuance of grazing permits. If the Resources Committee does not concur, the procedures outlined in § 161.800 will govern.
(e) The final determination list of eligible permittees will be published. Permits will not be issued sooner than 90 days following publication of the final list.
§ 161.403   How are grazing permits allocated within each range unit?
(a) Initial allocation of the number of animal units authorized in each grazing permit will be determined by considering the number of animal units previously authorized in prior grazing permits and the current authorized stocking rate on a given range unit.
(b) Grazing permit allocations may vary from range unit to range unit depending on the stocking rate of each unit, the range management plan, and the number of eligible grazing permittees in the unit.
§ 161.500   May permits be transferred, assigned or modified?
(a) Grazing permits may be transferred, assigned, or modified only as provided in this section. Permits may only be transferred or assigned as a single permit under Navajo Nation procedures and with the approval of BIA. Permittees must reside within the same range unit as the original permittee.
(b) Permits may be transferred, assigned, or modified with the written consent of the permittee, District Grazing Committee and/or Resources Committee and approved by BIA.
(c) BIA must record each transfer, assignment, or modification that it approves under a permit.
§ 161.501   When will a permit modification be effective?
BIA approval of a transfer, assignment, or modification under a permit will be effective immediately, notwithstanding any appeal, which may be filed under part 2 of this title. Copies of approved documents will be provided to the permittee and made available to the Navajo Nation upon request.
§ 161.502   Will a special land use require permit modification?
Yes. When the Navajo Nation and BIA approve a special land use, the grazing permit will be modified to reflect the change in available forage. If a special land use is inconsistent with grazing activities authorized in the permit, the special land use area will be withdrawn from the permit, and grazing cannot take place on that part of the range unit.
§ 161.600   What permit violations are addressed by this subpart?
This subpart addresses violations of permit provisions other than trespass. Trespass is addressed under subpart H.
§ 161.601   How will BIA monitor permit compliance?
Unless the permit provides otherwise, BIA and/or Navajo Nation may enter the range unit at any reasonable time, without prior notice, to protect the interests of the Navajo Nation and ensure that the permittee is in compliance with the operating requirements of the permit.
§ 161.602   Will my permit be canceled for non-use?
(a) If a grazing permit is not used by the permittee for a 2-year period, BIA may cancel the permit upon the recommendation of the Grazing Committee and with the concurrence of the Resources Committee under § 161.606(c). Non-use consists of, but is not limited to, absence of livestock on the range unit, and/or abandonment of a permittee's grazing permit.
(b) Unused grazing permits or portions of grazing permits that are set aside for range recovery will not be cancelled for non-use.
§ 161.603   Can mediation be used in the event of a permit violation or dispute?
A permit may provide for permit disputes or violations to be resolved with the District Grazing Committee through mediation.
(a) The District Grazing Committee will conduct the mediation before the Navajo Nation's appropriate hearing body, before BIA invokes any cancellation remedies.
(b) Conducting the mediation may substitute for permit cancellation. However, BIA retains the authority to cancel the permit under § 161.606.
(c) The Navajo Nation's appropriate hearing body decision will be final, unless it is appealed to the Navajo Nation Supreme Court on a question of law. BIA will defer to any ongoing proceedings, as appropriate, in deciding whether to exercise any of the remedies available to BIA under § 161.606.
§ 161.604   What happens if a permit violation occurs?
(a) If the Resources Committee notifies BIA that a specific permit violation has occurred, BIA will initiate an appropriate investigation within 5 business days of that notification.
(b) Unless otherwise provided under tribal law, when BIA has reason to believe that a permit violation has occurred, BIA or the authorized tribal representative will provide written notice to the permittee within 5 business days.
§ 161.605   What will a written notice of a permit violation contain?
The written notice of a permit violation will provide the permittee with 10 days from the receipt of the written notice to:
(a) Cure the permit violation and notify BIA that the violation is cured;
(b) Explain why BIA should not cancel the permit;
(c) Request in writing additional time to complete corrective actions. If additional time is granted, BIA may require that certain actions be taken immediately; or
(d) Request mediation under § 161.603.
§ 161.606   What will BIA do if the permittee doesn't cure a violation on time?
(a) If the permittee does not cure a violation within the required time period, or if the violation is not referred to District Grazing Committee for mediation, BIA will consult with the Navajo Nation, as appropriate, and determine whether:
(1) The permit may be canceled by BIA under paragraph (c) of this section and §§ 161.607 through 161.608;
(2) BIA may invoke any other remedies available to BIA under the permit;
(3) The Navajo Nation may invoke any remedies available to them under the permit; or
(4) The permittee may be granted additional time in which to cure the violation.
(b) If BIA grants a permittee a time extension to cure a violation, the permittee must proceed diligently to complete the necessary corrective actions within a reasonable or specified time from the date on which the extension is granted.
(c) If BIA cancels the permit, BIA will send the permittee and the District Grazing Committee a written notice of cancellation within 5 business days of the decision. BIA will also provide actual or constructive notice of the cancellation to the Navajo Nation, as appropriate. The written notice of cancellation will:
(1) Explain the grounds for cancellation;
(2) Notify the permittee of the amount of any unpaid fees and other financial obligations due under the permit;
(3) Notify the permittee of his or her right to appeal under 25 CFR part 2 of this title, as modified by § 161.607, including the amount of any appeal bond that must be posted with an appeal of the cancellation decision; and
(4) Order the permittee to cease grazing livestock on the next anniversary date of the grazing permit or 180 days following the receipt of the written notice of cancellation, whichever is sooner.
§ 161.607   What appeal bond provisions apply to permit cancellation decisions?
(a) The appeal bond provisions in § 2.5 of part 2 of this title will not apply to appeals from permit cancellation decision. Instead, when BIA decides to cancel a permit, BIA may require the permittee to post an appeal bond with an appeal of the cancellation decision. The requirement to post an appeal bond will apply in addition to all of the other requirements in part 2 of this title.
(b) An appeal bond should be set in an amount necessary to protect the Navajo Nation against financial losses that will likely result from the delay caused by an appeal. Appeal bond requirements will not be separately appealable, but may be contested during the appeal of the permit cancellation decision.
§ 161.608   When will a permit cancellation be effective?
A cancellation decision involving a permit will not be effective for 30 days after the permittee receives a written notice of cancellation from BIA. The cancellation decision will remain ineffective if the permittee files an appeal under § 161.607 and part 2 of this title, unless the decision is made immediately effective under part 2. While a cancellation decision is ineffective, the permittee must continue to comply with the other terms of the permit. If an appeal is not filed in accordance with § 161.607 and part 2 of this title, the cancellation decision will be effective on the 31st day after the permittee receives the written notice of cancellation from BIA.
§ 161.609   Can BIA take emergency action if the rangeland is threatened?
Yes, if a permittee or any other party causes or threatens to cause immediate, significant and irreparable harm to the Navajo Nation land during the term of a permit, BIA will take appropriate emergency action. Emergency action may include trespass proceedings under subpart H, or judicial action seeking immediate cessation of the activity resulting in or threatening harm. Reasonable efforts will be made to notify the Navajo Nation, either before or after the emergency action is taken.
§ 161.610   What will BIA do if livestock is not removed when a permit expires or is cancelled?
If the livestock is not removed after the expiration or cancellation of a permit, BIA will treat the unauthorized use as a trespass. BIA may remove the livestock on behalf of the Navajo Nation, and pursue any additional remedies available under applicable law, including the assessment of civil penalties and costs under subpart H.
§ 161.700   What is trespass?
Under this part, trespass is any unauthorized use of, or action on, Navajo partitioned grazing lands.
§ 161.701   What is BIA's trespass policy?
BIA will:
(a) Investigate accidental, willful, and/or incidental trespass on Navajo Partitioned Lands;
(b) Respond to alleged trespass in a prompt, efficient manner;
(c) Assess trespass penalties for the value of products used or removed, cost of damage to the Navajo Partitioned Lands, and enforcement costs incurred as a consequence of the trespass; and
(d) Ensure, to the extent possible, that damage to Navajo Partitioned Lands resulting from trespass is rehabilitated and stabilized at the expense of the trespasser.
§ 161.702   Who will enforce this subpart?
(a) BIA enforces the provisions of this subpart. If the Navajo Nation adopts the provisions of this subpart, the Navajo Nation will have concurrent jurisdiction to enforce this subpart. Additionally, if the Navajo Nation so requests, BIA will defer to tribal prosecution of trespass on Navajo Partitioned Lands.
(b) Nothing in this subpart will be construed to diminish the sovereign authority of the Navajo Nation with respect to trespass.
§ 161.703   How are trespassers notified of a trespass determination?
(a) Unless otherwise provided under tribal law, when BIA has reason to believe that a trespass on Navajo Partitioned Lands has occurred, BIA or the authorized tribal representative will provide written notice within 5 business days to:
(1) The alleged trespasser;
(2) The possessor of trespass property; and
(3) Any known lien holder.
(b) The written notice under paragraph (a) of this section will include the following:
(1) The basis for the trespass determination;
(2) A legal description of where the trespass occurred;
(3) A verification of ownership of unauthorized property ( e.g. , brands in the State Brand Book for cases of livestock trespass, if applicable);
(4) Corrective actions that must be taken;
(5) Time frames for taking the corrective actions;
(6) Potential consequences and penalties for failure to take corrective action; and
(7) A statement that unauthorized livestock or other property may not be removed or disposed of unless authorized by BIA under paragraph (b)(4) of this section.
(c) If BIA determines that the alleged trespasser or possessor of trespass property is unknown or refuses delivery of the written notice, a public trespass notice will be posted at the tribal community building, U.S. Post Office, and published in the local newspaper nearest to the Indian agricultural lands where the trespass is occurring.
(d) Trespass notices under this subpart are not subject to appeal under part 2 of this title.
§ 161.704   What can a permittee do if they receive a trespass notice?
The trespasser will within the time frame specified in the notice:
(a) Comply with the ordered corrective actions; or
(b) Contact BIA in writing to explain why the trespass notice is in error. The trespasser may contact BIA by telephone but any explanation of trespass must be provided in writing. If BIA determines that a trespass notice was issued in error, the notice will be withdrawn.
§ 161.705   How long will a written trespass notice remain in effect?
A written trespass notice will remain in effect for the same action identified in that written notice for a period of one year from the date of receipt of the written notice by the trespasser.
§ 161.706   What actions does BIA take against trespassers?
If the trespasser fails to take the corrective action as specified, BIA may take one or more of the following actions, as appropriate:
(a) Seize, impound, sell or dispose of unauthorized livestock or other property involved in the trespass. BIA may keep the property seized for use as evidence.
(b) Assess penalties, damages, and costs under § 161.712.
§ 161.707   When will BIA impound unauthorized livestock or other property?
BIA will impound unauthorized livestock or other property under the following conditions:
(a) Where there is imminent danger of severe injury to growing or harvestable crop or destruction of the range forage.
(b) When the known owner or the owner's representative of the unauthorized livestock or other property refuses to accept delivery of a written notice of trespass and the unauthorized livestock or other property are not removed within the period prescribed in the written notice.
(c) Any time after 5 days of providing notice of impoundment if the trespasser failed to correct the trespass.
§ 161.708   How are trespassers notified of impoundments?
(a) If the trespass is not corrected in the time specified in the initial trespass notice, BIA will send written notice of its intent to impound unauthorized livestock or other property to:
(1) The unauthorized livestock or property owner or representative; and
(2) Any known lien holder of the unauthorized livestock or other property.
(b) If BIA determines that the owner of the unauthorized livestock or other property or the owner's representative is unknown or refuses delivery of the written notice, a public notice of intent to impound will be posted at the tribal community building, U.S. Post Office, and published in the local newspaper nearest to the Indian agricultural lands where the trespass is occurring.
(c) After BIA has given notice as described in § 161.707, unauthorized livestock or other property will be impounded without any further notice.
§ 161.709   What happens after unauthorized livestock or other property are impounded?
Following the impoundment of unauthorized livestock or other property, BIA will provide notice that the impounded property will be sold as follows:
(a) BIA will provide written notice of the sale to the owner, the owner's representative, and any known lien holder. The written notice must include the procedure by which the impounded property may be redeemed before the sale.
(b) BIA will provide public notice of sale of impounded property by posting at the tribal community building, U.S. Post Office, and publishing in the local newspaper nearest to the Indian agricultural lands where the trespass is occurring. The public notice will include a description of the impounded property, and the date, time, and place of the public sale. The sale date must be at least 5 days after the publication and posting of notice.
§ 161.710   How can impounded livestock or other property be redeemed?
Impounded livestock or other property may be redeemed by submitting proof of ownership and paying all penalties, damages, and costs under § 161.712 and completing all corrective actions identified by BIA under § 161.704.
§ 161.711   How will BIA sell impounded livestock or other property?
(a) Unless the owner or known lien holder of the impounded livestock or other property redeems the property before the time set by the sale, by submitting proof of ownership and settling all obligations under §§ 161.704 and 161.712, the property will be sold by public sale to the highest bidder.
(b) If a satisfactory bid is not received, the livestock or property may be re-offered for sale, returned to the owner, condemned and destroyed, or otherwise disposed of.
(c) BIA will give the purchaser a bill of sale or other written receipt evidencing the sale.
§ 161.712   What are the penalties, damages, and costs payable by trespassers?
Trespassers on Navajo Partitioned Lands must pay the following penalties and costs:
(a) Collection of the value of the products illegally used or removed plus a penalty of double their values;
(b) Costs associated with any damage to Navajo Partitioned Lands and/or property;
(c) The costs associated with enforcement of the provisions, including field examination and survey, damage appraisal, investigation assistance and reports, witness expenses, demand letters, court costs, and attorney fees;
(d) Expenses incurred in gathering, impounding, caring for, and disposal of livestock in cases which necessitate impoundment under § 161.707; and
(e) All other penalties authorized by law.
§ 161.713   How will BIA determine the amount of damages to Navajo Partitioned Lands?
(a) BIA will determine the damages by considering the costs of rehabilitation and re-vegetation, loss of future revenue, loss of profits, loss of productivity, loss of market value, damage to other resources, and other factors.
(b) BIA will determine the value of forage or crops consumed or destroyed based upon the average rate received per month for comparable property or grazing privileges, or the estimated commercial value or replacement costs of the products or property.
(c) BIA will determine the value of the products or property illegally used or removed based upon a valuation of similar products or property.
§ 161.714   How will BIA determine the costs associated with enforcement of the trespass?
Costs of enforcement may include detection and all actions taken by us through prosecution and collection of damages. This includes field examination and survey, damage appraisal, investigation assistance and report preparation, witness expenses, demand letters, court costs, attorney fees, and other costs.
§ 161.715   What will BIA do if a trespasser fails to pay penalties, damages and costs?
This section applies if a trespasser fails to pay the assessed penalties, damages, and costs as directed. Unless otherwise provided by applicable Navajo Nation law, BIA will:
(a) Refuse to issue the permittee a permit for any use of Navajo Partitioned Lands; and
(b) Forward the case for appropriate legal action.
§ 161.716   How are the proceeds from trespass distributed?
Unless otherwise provided by Navajo Nation law:
(a) BIA will treat any amounts recovered under § 161.712 as proceeds from the sale of agricultural property from the Navajo Partitioned Lands upon which the trespass occurred.
(b) Proceeds recovered under § 161.712 may be distributed to:
(1) Repair damages of the Navajo Partitioned Lands and property; or
(2) Reimburse the affected parties, including the permittee for loss due to the trespass, as negotiated and provided in the permit.
(c) Reimburse for costs associated with the enforcement.
(d) If any money is left over after the distribution of the proceeds described in paragraph (b) of this section, BIA will return it to the trespasser or, where the owner of the impounded property cannot be identified within 180 days, the net proceeds of the sale will be deposited into the appropriate Navajo Nation account or transferred to the Navajo Nation under applicable tribal law.
§ 161.717   What happens if BIA does not collect enough money to satisfy the penalty?
BIA will send written notice to the trespasser demanding immediate settlement and advising the trespasser that unless settlement is received within 5 business days from the date of receipt, BIA will forward the case for appropriate legal action. BIA may send a copy of the notice to the Navajo Nation, permittee, and any known lien holders.
§ 161.800   How does the Navajo Nation provide concurrence to BIA?
(a) Actions taken by BIA under this part require concurrence of the Navajo Nation under section 640d-9(e)(1)(A) of the Settlement Act.
(b) For any action requiring the concurrence of the Resources Committee, the following procedures will apply:
(1) Unless a longer time is specified in a particular section, or unless BIA grants an extension of time, the Resources Committee will have 45 days to review and concur with the proposed action;
(2) If the Resources Committee concurs in writing with all or part of BIA proposed action, the action or a portion of it may be immediately implemented;
(3) If the Resources Committee does not concur with all or part of the proposed action within the time prescribed in paragraph (b)(1) of this section, BIA will submit to the Resources Committee a written declaration of non-concurrence. BIA will then notify the Resources Committee in writing of a formal hearing to be held not sooner than 30 days from the date of the non-concurrence declaration;
(4) The formal hearing on non-concurrence will permit the submission of written evidence and argument concerning the proposal. BIA will take minutes of the hearing. Following the hearing, BIA may amend, alter, or otherwise change the proposed action. If, following a hearing, BIA alters or amends portions of the proposed plan of action, BIA will submit the altered or amended portions of the plan to the Resources Committee for its concurrence; and
(5) If the Resources Committee fails or refuses to give its concurrence to the proposal, BIA may implement the proposal only after issuing a written order, based upon findings of fact, that the proposed action is necessary to protect the land under the Settlement Act and the Agricultural Act.
§ 161.801   May decisions under this part be appealed?
(a) Appeals of BIA decisions issued under this part may be taken in accordance with procedures in part 2 of 25 CFR.
(b) All appeals of decisions by the Grazing Committee and Resources Committee will be forwarded to the Navajo Nation's Office of Hearings and Appeals.
§ 161.802   How will the Navajo Nation recommend amendments to this part?
The Resources Committee will have final authority on behalf of the Navajo Nation to approve amendments to the Navajo Partitioned Lands grazing provisions, upon the recommendation of the Grazing Committee and the Navajo-Hopi Land Commission, and the concurrence of BIA.