U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Martin Heinrich (D-New Mexico), along with Representatives Doug LaMalfa (R-California) and Norma Torres (D-California), have reintroduced the Native American Seeds Act of 2025 in Congress. The legislation aims to help tribal governments protect seeds that are important to their cultural heritage.
“By empowering tribal self-governance and equipping native communities with the tools to preserve traditional agriculture systems and culturally significant seeds, we can help safeguard these deeply rooted practices for generations to come,” said Crapo.
“I’m proud to lead legislation that will help preserve Tribes’ cultural practices and way of life by protecting Native seeds and traditional foodways for future generations,” said Heinrich. “This effort will grow local economies in Indian Country and help ensure Tribal members remain connected to their culture and heritage.”
LaMalfa emphasized the need for flexibility: “Protecting native heritage starts with making sure seeds that hold traditional importance aren’t lost to disaster or neglect. This legislation gives Tribes the flexibility they need to preserve and grow these plants on their own terms. With wildfires, drought, and other challenges threatening seed stocks nationwide, this bill strengthens farming efforts on reservations and helps maintain a link to traditions that shouldn’t be pushed aside. I’m pleased to join Congresswoman Torres in leading this effort.”
Torres highlighted the broader significance: “Traditional seeds hold centuries of knowledge, culture, and resilience. This bill recognizes the fundamental importance of preserving these seeds—not just for food security, but for the cultural, spiritual, and environmental legacy they carry. From ceremonial practices to sustainable agriculture, Native communities have cultivated these seeds with intention and care. The Native American Seeds Act of 2025 will help ensure that future generations can continue these traditions and protect their heritage. I’m proud to partner with Congressman LaMalfa, Senator Heinrich, and Senator Crapo to champion this vital effort.”
Donna Thompson, Chairwoman of the Fort Hall Business Council for the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, also expressed support: “The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes appreciate the efforts of Senator Crapo, Senator Heinrich, Representative Torres, and Representative LaMalfa to introduce this important legislation to assist us in our efforts to preserve seeds for numerous plants, including camas, bitterroot, wild onions, sage, and chokecherry, that hold deep cultural, historical, and ceremonial significance to us. This bill will help the federal government honor its obligations under the Fort Bridger Treaty of 1868 and enable future generations to continue our traditional ways of life.”
The act requires the U.S. Secretary of the Department of the Interior to work collaboratively with tribes on identifying Native American seeds as well as supporting tribal seed banks and related agricultural systems. It also restricts sharing culturally sensitive or proprietary information provided by tribes.
Tribes across the country face increased threats from wildfire, droughts, pests or disease outbreaks affecting their ability to save traditional plant varieties. The proposed law is intended not only to support preservation but also improve food security on reservations while supporting physical health outcomes among tribal members.
Original co-sponsors include Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Senator Ruben Gallego (D-Arizona), and Senator Ben Lujan (D-New Mexico).
