ᏂᎬᏩᏍᏓ ᏓᏓᏁᏜᏅ ᏗᎦᏘᏯ ᏧᏂᎸᏫᏍᏓᏁᏗᎢ

Secretary of Natural Resources Office

Farm and Food Workers Relief Program

The Farm and Food Workers Relief Program was created, through USDA funding, to offset unexpected costs brought on by COVID-19, such as purchasing protective gear, paying for testing, and costs associated with quarantine requirements for both agricultural and meatpacking workers.

Eligible agricultural and meatpacking workers, can apply through Cherokee Nation for a one-time flat payment of $600.

For additional information on the Farm and Food Work Relief page.

Natural Resources are the bedrock for the overall health of our tribal citizens, our local wildlife, and our native plant species. The relationship between tribes and their natural resources is dynamic, intertwining a broad spectrum of regulatory compliance with deeply rooted connections among native lands, tribal culture, and sacred places. The Office of the Secretary of Natural Resources is responsible for promoting environmental quality and sustainable land practices for future generations of Cherokee citizens.

The Cherokee Nation Constitution reserves a cabinet - level position to oversee the Executive Office of Natural Resources, currently held by Christina Justice. Prior to her appointment to this post in 2023, Secretary Justice served as the Chief Administrator of Operations for the Natural Resources Department. She has served the tribe in various capacities for nearly two decades. Secretary Justice makes natural resources a fundamental priority, administering the tribe’s environmental programs, conservation, and sustainability initiatives, and advising the Chief and Council of the Cherokee Nation on related public policy matters.