The ONHPO is responsible for consultations, investigations, and planning efforts in relation to the following: the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA), the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA), the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), the four Oklahoma Statutes protecting human remains, and Osage laws concerning archaeological and heritage resources. The Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) assists in the identification, documentation, and protection of Osage archaeological and historic properties within the Osage Nation Reservation and throughout Osage ancestral lands. A network of elders and partners collaborate to ensure that the full spectrum of archaeological and historic properties threatened by proposed federal undertakings or other forces are identified and receive culturally appropriate documentation and treatment. All prospective threats to Osage culture or the reservation’s archaeological and historic resources receive coordinated responses through consultations, research, and investigations centered in the ONHPO.

 

 

The Traditional Cultural Advisors (TCA) serve as the advisory review board for the ONHPO. The TCA is comprised of individuals who are knowledgeable of Osage traditions from each of the three reservation districts, which are Grayhorse, Hominy, and Pawhuska. Members are asked by the THPO to join the TCA based on their expertise in Osage culture and history, interest in cultural and historic preservation, as well as their standing in the local community. The TCA advises and provides guidance to the ONHPO staff regarding 1) NAGPRA issues - repatriation of and research on ancestral remains, sacred object, objects of cultural patrimony, and funerary objects, 2) ARPA issues - decisions related to disturbance, destruction, and looting of ancestral lands, burial sites, archaeological sites, traditional cultural properties, and sacred sites, 3) National Register of Historic Place nominations, and 4) support of cultural activities throughout the reservation.