The Principles acknowledge that treaty rights will be respected, and require Corps staff to treat Tribal representatives with respect and dignity. We believe strongly that the interim guidance will reaffirm good relationships and support work already underway, and pave the way for new and enhanced relationships, and new work. It is anticipated that the Principles will help with the operation and maintenance of 44 Corps projects which involve trust assets affecting the well-being of 15 percent of the Tribes in the lower 48 States. Tribes have been partners with Army Civil Works, either as direct sponsors, or through sub-agreements, in over 300 projects which are in various stages of planning, engineering, or construction. Consistent with the Principles , Army Civil Works will look for new challenges, especially those using environmental restoration and protection, planning assistance, and technical support authorities.
Tribes retain inherent powers of self-government.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will work to meet trust obligations, protect trust resources, and obtain Tribal views of trust and treaty responsibilities or actions related to the Corps, in accordance with provisions of treaties, laws and Executive Orders as well as principles lodged in the Constitution of the United States. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will reach out, through designated points of contact, to involve Tribes in collaborative processes designed to ensure information exchange, consideration of disparate viewpoints before and during decision making, and utilize fair and impartial dispute resolution mechanisms. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will search for ways to involve Tribes in programs, projects and other activities that build economic capacity and foster abilities to manage Tribal resources while preserving cultural identities. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will act to fulfill obligations to preserve and protect trust resources, comply with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, and ensure reasonable access to sacred sites in accordance with published and easily accessible guidance.