Tennessee agency completes inventory for Quapaw Nation remains
Published Date: 1/15/2026
Notice
Summary
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation has finished checking some Native American human remains and found they belong to the Quapaw Nation. Starting February 17, 2026, these remains can be officially returned to the tribe. This is a respectful step to honor Native American heritage with no costs involved for the public.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Repatriation to Quapaw Nation Available
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation has identified human remains of at least one Native American individual as affiliated with the Quapaw Nation. These remains (donated to TDEC-DOA in 1981 and from an unknown site in Arkansas) may be returned to the tribe on or after February 17, 2026; written repatriation requests must be sent to Phillip R. Hodge at TDEC-DOA.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation plans to return a set of ancient Native American pottery from Arkansas to the rightful tribes starting February 17, 2026. These items, linked to Native American burial traditions, were donated in 1979 and are now being respectfully repatriated. This move honors Native American heritage and follows important cultural laws, with no costs or hazards involved.
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