James Calabaza

Born and raised in New Mexico, James comes with direct experience working with Tribes and understanding the traditional knowledge as it pertains to their unique values. After working with the government sector, James realized his heart belongs to the nonprofit world.

As Trees, Water & People’s Indigenous Lands Program Director, James provides much needed insight and experience on working with Tribal governments that uphold traditional ethics of governance and leadership. His deep rooted experiences and cultural values strengthens our program by building trust with Tribes, promoting traditional landscape conservation values and over-seeing landscape-scale co-stewardship projects.

James is Director of the Indigenous Lands Program at Trees, Water & People. James engages and works with U.S. Tribal Nations on efforts centered around community-based, Tribal-led stewardship projects that prioritizes Tribal cultural values and protection of resources. In his role, James provides much needed insight and experience on working with Tribal governments that uphold traditional ethics of governance and leadership, while also respecting Tribal sovereignty.

Roundtable Facilitator

Silvopasture Dreams and Challenges