Donna Augustine, a member of the Aroostook Band of Micmac Indians of Maine, has been appointed to the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Review Committee.

Augustine was nominated by the four tribes in Maine. She is recognized as a traditional religious leader by Indian tribes in the United States, as well as by Canadian First Nations, and has been actively involved in the repatriation issues since 1977, the National Park Service said.

"The review committee serves a critical role in ensuring the goals of NAGPRA are carried out," said Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne, who finalized the appointment. "I am pleased with the willingness and commitment of Ms. Augustine to take on this important challenge. I look forward to the recommendations and advice of the full committee."

The NAGPRA review committee serves an advisory role in the repatriation process. Its role was the subject of a recent court ruling that criticized the Bureau of Land Management for its handling of the remains of a 10,000-year-old ancestor claimed by Nevada tribes.

The other members of the committee are: Dr. Garrick Bailey, Mr. Colin Kippen, Mr. Willie Jones, Mr. Dan L. Monroe, Dr. Vincas P. Steponaitis, and Dr. Rosita Worl.

NAGPRA Review Committee/Spirit Cave Man Decision:
Fallon Paiute Shoshone Tribe v. BLM (September 21, 2006)

Spirit Cave Man Documents:
Federal Register Notice | Determinaton of Spirit Cave Man | Spirit Cave Man: Biological Aspects

NAGPRA Amendment Bill:
S.536: Technical Corrections Act

Kennewick Man Court Decision:
BONNICHSEN v. US (February 4, 2004)

Relevant Links:
National NAGPRA - http://www.cr.nps.gov/nagpra

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