NATHPO will be holding our November THPO Policy Forum on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 2 PM EDT. These forums serve a regular opportunity for THPOs to convene virtually to learn from each other. We are hoping to create a space for THPOs to share knowledge on the policies and practices of the job. If you’re a THPO or are part of a THPO office staff, please register for the forum HERE if you haven't already.

NOTE: These forums are open to THPOs and THPO staff only.

As many of you know, the National Park Service (NPS) indicated the possibility of a delay in making FY 2026 THPO Grant funds available until at least late October. This appears to have been exacerbated by the recently resolved government shutdown. However, we have heard from multiple THPOs that funds are starting to be made available to draw down.

If you have questions about the status of your application or your grant, we encourage you to reach out to the NPS via the THPO email address (thpo_program@nps.gov) or the main line at 202-354-2020.

Earlier this month, Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM) re-introduced the Historic Preservation Enhancement Act. This bill, which was first introduced last year, would, if enacted, represent a vital step towards the federal government fulfilling their Trust responsibilities to ensure Tribal Nations have the financial resources necessary to protect their sacred places and preserve their cultural resources.

The bill would permanently require $300 million each year to be appropriated for the Historic Preservation Fund. Of that $300 million, at least 20 percent of the funds would be required to be allocated for THPOs, which would nearly triple the current funding for the THPO program. The bill would also require the Department of the Interior to review the allocation of funding annually to ensure that funding for THPOs keeps pace as the number of THPOs increases.

You can read more about this critical legislation HERE.

NATHPO recently announced the Board of Directors had approved the plan for the next chapter of NATHPO's growth - the adoption of a Co-Executive Director structure, with Ira L. Matt and Valerie Grussing serving together leading this fantastic organization. Valerie will serve as Executive Director for Legislative Affairs and Strategic Partnerships, and Ira will serve as Executive Director for Indigenous Diplomacy and Federal Relations. You can read more about the announcement HERE, and you can reach Ira at Ira@nathpo.org.

NATHPO is delighted to announce our 26th Annual Conference & Sacred Places Summit will take place in New Mexico, hosted by Pueblo of Acoma and their THPO, NATHPO Southwestern Board Representative Steven Concho. Please stay tuned to NATHPO's website for more updates about exact dates and locations. We can't wait to see you all again next year in New Mexico!

Valerie J. Grussing, PhD
NATHPO Executive Director for Legislative Affairs & Strategic Partnerships
valerie@nathpo.org | 202-628-8476

Ira L. Matt
NATHPO Executive Director for Indigenous Diplomacy & Federal Affairs
Ira@nathpo.org | 406-241-4927