Safeguarding Natural Heritage

Students participate in hands-on labs, workshops, discussion groups, field trips, and character- and team-building activities led by Tribal elders, practitioners, and professionals, university professors, and U.S. Government scientists while living on a college campus. 

Sample activities include: studying the life cycles and habits of insects (entomologists); inspect and regulate certain genetically engineered organisms (biotechnologists); examining cells and tissues under a microscope to identify diseases (plant pathologists); working to conserve and manage wild animals and their habitats (wildlife biologists); carrying out animal health programs (veterinarians); learning about on the humane care and treatment of animals (veterinarians and animal care inspectors); and studying the business aspects of protecting plants and animals (agribusiness). 

Students chosen to participate in SNH pay only the cost of transportation to and from the college/university campus.  All other costs—including tuition, room and board, and laboratory supplies—will be covered by APHIS. 

In 2024, APHIS’ SNH partners will include the College of Menominee Nation, Diné College, Navajo Technical University, the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, College of Menominee Nation, Fond Du Lac Tribal and Community College, and Salish Kootenai College. To learn more about possible opportunities at these specific institutions, please use the contact information provided below.  For general information about SNH, please contact APHIS National Tribal Liaison Terry Clark at (301) 440-4388 or Terry.W.Clark@usda.gov, or Assistant National Tribal Liaison Carl Etsitty at (970) 494-7573 or Carl.Etsitty@usda.gov.