What We Do

The THPO partnership application process, managed by the NPS Tribal Historic Preservation Program (THPP), supports transferring certain functions related to the preservation of historic sites, resources, and places from a State Historic Preservation Officer to a Tribal Historic Preservation Officer on tribal lands. It also approves THPO partners to be eligible to apply for yearly historic preservation funding. The THPP supports tribal partners in operating sustainable preservation programs and provides technical assistance in the field of tribal historic preservation to the national network of preservation partners. The THPP also maintains up to date contact information for all Tribal Historic Preservation Offices that have entered into an agreement with the National Park Service. Between 1996 and 2020, the NPS has partnered with 200 THPOs as of August 2020, and the number of applicants continues to grow.

Looking to learn more about THPOs or to find a THPO? Check out our FAQs.

Are you looking to enter into a THPO agreement and become eligible for non-competitive THPO grants? Please visit our application guidance and training page.

Annual THPO grants managed by the State, Tribal, Local, Plans & Grants Division partially support the work of THPOs that have a THPO partnership agreement with the National Park Service.

Have a question? Contact Us.

Frequently Used Links

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  THPO Application

  Here you can find the most updated THPO Program application. Use this application and application guidance to craft your THPO program plan.

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  Annual THPO Grants

  A modest amount of annual funding is available to support THPOs who have entered into an agreement with the National Park Service.

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  THPP 25th Anniversary Report

  This issue highlights successes from across the nation and the close preservation partnerships that have developed over the years.