University to Return Historic Conch Shell Wampum

2026-04606 — Alaska; Hunting and Trapping in National Preserves

The National Park Service wants to update hunting and trapping rules in Alaska’s national preserves to bring back long-standing practices that support state-authorized wildlife harvests and public access. These changes affect hunters, trappers, and anyone using Alaska park lands, aiming to balance conservation with local traditions. You’ve got until April 9, 2026, to share your thoughts—no new fees or costs are expected.

2026-14165 — Notice of Intended Repatriation: University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA

The University of California, Berkeley plans to return some special Native American and Native Hawaiian cultural items, like sacred baskets and pottery, to the tribes they belong to. This repatriation will start on or after August 14, 2026, and helps honor the history and traditions of these communities. No money changes hands, but it’s a big step in respecting cultural heritage.

2026-13984 — National Register of Historic Places; Notification of Pending Nominations and Related Actions

The National Park Service is asking for your thoughts on historic places nominated before June 20, 2026, to be officially recognized. If you care about preserving cool old buildings or neighborhoods, now’s your chance to speak up by July 27, 2026. This process helps decide which spots get special protection, with no cost to the public but big benefits for history lovers everywhere!

2026-13255 — Agency Information Collection Activities; Office of Public Health Disease Reporting and Surveillance Forms

The National Park Service wants to keep using its health and disease reporting forms to track illnesses in parks. They’re asking for public feedback by August 31, 2026, to make sure the forms aren’t too much work and still get the job done. This helps keep visitors safe without wasting time or money on paperwork.

2026-12391 — Notice of Intended Repatriation: American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY

The American Museum of Natural History plans to return a special wooden mask to the Oneida Tribe, honoring their cultural heritage. This mask, used in maternity ceremonies, will be repatriated starting July 22, 2026. This respectful handover helps preserve Native traditions and involves careful handling due to past pesticide use on museum items.

2026-12380 — Notice of Intended Repatriation: Wesleyan University, Archaeology & Anthropology Collections, Middletown, CT

Wesleyan University plans to return 13 sacred Native Hawaiian cultural items to the rightful tribes starting July 22, 2026. These special objects, like decorated gourds and stone tools, were once traded between museums but now will go back home. This repatriation respects Native traditions and doesn’t involve any money changes, just honoring heritage.

Previous: 2026-14185 — Notice of Intended Repatriation: Franklin Pierce University, Rindge, NH

Franklin Pierce University plans to return a pottery pipe fragment linked to the Stockbridge Munsee Community, a Native American tribe. This item, found in New York, is believed to have been part of a burial ceremony. The repatriation can happen starting August 14, 2026, and anyone interested can send requests to the university.

Next: 2026-14187 — Request for Information (RFI): Inviting Comments and Suggestions on Topic Areas for the NIDCR Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2027-2031

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) is asking everyone—from scientists to patient groups—to share ideas for its new 2027-2031 plan. This plan will guide important research and health improvements for teeth and faces, so your input can help shape future discoveries and treatments. Comments are due by September 14, 2026, and this is a great chance to influence where millions of research dollars go!