On Aug. 11, a federal rule went into effect that will allow members of recognized Indian tribes to forge agreements with the National Park Service to gather plants for traditional purposes, so now the park and tribe must determine how that rule might be implemented in the Smokies. 

“The relationship we have with the park has strengthened and we are excited to share our traditional ecological knowledge on how we have harvested these plants for thousands of years in this landscape,” said Principal Chief Patrick Lambert.

In the meeting, a framework was established to outline the steps for developing an agreement. The agreement will likely focus on the gathering of ramps and sochan, which is also known as green-headed coneflower. 

The first step will be completion of an Environmental Assessment, which must reveal a finding of no significant impact. An EA for sochan is expected over the next 12-18 months. Park and tribe leaders will work together to develop an agreement in line with the EA, using it to determine appropriate quantities and locations for traditional gathering to ensure sustainability and protection of selected species. 

“We look forward to working with the tribe to both honor Cherokee Indian traditions and also carry out our agency's mission to protect these very special resources for future generations. I truly believe that we can achieve both of these goals by working together,” said Park Superintendent Cassius Cash. 

The final federal rule on gathering is online at http://bit.ly/2cm3j3c.