Wildlife & Ecosystems Management Program

The Wildlife & Ecosystems Management Program is in charge of management of the Wildlife and the Ecosystems, which includes the Woodland/Forestry and Wetland Habitat on the Hopi Reservation.

Mission

To ensure Hopi cultural, ethical, and suitable management of the Tribe’s natural resources, habitat and ecosystems of native and migratory wildlife species, and suitable and proper woodland habitat management.

Vision

When our ancestors emerged into this Fourth World, they chose the smallest ear of corn to represent our way of life—knowing that our existence would require humility, discipline, and continual effort. Under the guidance of Maasaw, we entered into a sacred covenant to migrate across the land, to leave our footprints, and to earn the right to call this place Hopitutskwa. Our migrations are complete, and with them, our first obligation fulfilled. Our continuing responsibility is to be worthy caretakers of this land and all life upon it.

We uphold reverence for all that is Hopi: the land and sky, the stones and soil, the springs and streams, the plants and animals. We understand that we are a living part of this circle. The plants feed the small animals, the small animals feed the larger ones, and all nourish us. Life continues because each being gives of itself for another.
Therefore, we commit ourselves to live with respect, humility, and responsibility. We work, pray, plant, hunt, and give in ways that honor the sacrifices that sustain us. We care for our children, our crops, our wildlife, and one another with the understanding that our actions today shape the balance of tomorrow.
To be Hopi-Tewa is to remember our covenant each day. It is to conduct ourselves with integrity, to protect what cannot speak for itself, and to ensure that the land and all living beings continue to thrive. Our value is stewardship—earned through our actions, upheld through our traditions, and carried forward for future generations. 

Wildlife Management Unit:

  • Hunting Regulations – Deer and Elk, and Furbearers
  • Game Surveys – Big Game, Furbearers, Predatory and Non-Game Surveys
    • Provide Hunter Education Classes
    • Public Information and Education on Wildlife Management
  • Hopi Three Canyon Ranch Access

Ecosystems Management Unit:

  • Wood Permits – Commercial and Non-Commercial
    • Please visit the WEMP Office located at the Honahie Building
  • Monitor Woodlands areas
  • Inventory of the Woodlands
  • Wood Harvests – New Lands
    • Provide Public Information and Education on Woodlands Habitat
  • Project Surveys

WEMP Hopi Hunt Unit
2025 Map

Staff Listing and Contact Information

Matt Honanie, Manager – (928)734-3671
Pricilla Nutumya, Secretary II – (928)734-3673
Verna Thompson, Wildlife Biologist
DeWayne Quochytewa, Forester
Ernal Takala, Wildlife Technician II
AlRye Polequaptewa – Wildlife Technician I
Lydge Silas – Laborer

For any suspicious wildlife activity, please contact Hopi Law Enforcement Services at (928)734-7340