Home > Our Network > Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians

Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians

The ancestral territory of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians stretches across the Californian coastline, ranging from Malibu to Paso Robles, and extends to the Northern Channel Islands. Once, this substantial Chumash domain spanned a considerable 7,000 square miles from the sun-kissed beaches of Malibu all the way to Paso Robles. Additionally, our historical roots reached into the interior regions, touching the western fringes of the San Joaquin Valley.

Tribal Initiatives

The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians are steadfast in our commitment to environmental stewardship, striving to ready our ancestral territories for ecological change. Embracing an ethos of regeneration and protection, we are proactive in preserving natural resources integral to our heritage. We believe deeply in the synergy of culture, spirit, and community, and manifest this belief through collaborative and educational initiatives. Our work is guided by a mission that harmonizes environmental responsibility with cultural continuation, painting a holistic picture of our dedication to the earth and to our enduring traditions.

Resiliency through Stewardship

Environmental Stewardship

The Santa Ynez Chumash Environmental Office (SYCEO) has established a resilience‑focused native plant nursery on Tribal lands to support ecological restoration, food sovereignty, and cultural stewardship. The nursery strengthens traditional connections to the land by cultivating plants used for materials, medicine, and food. By sharing these eco-friendly principles and practices across the community, SYCEO bolsters communal resilience, expands Tribal access to culturally significant plants, and propels food sovereignty to new heights..

Wetlands Protection

Environmental Stewardship

For more than 12 years, SYCEO has overseen wetlands across Tribal territories, applying both ecological expertise and cultural knowledge. Most recently, the team conducted wetland delineations and assessments at the Camp 4 property, which was placed into trust in 2019. This ongoing work supports long‑term monitoring while helping protect and restore habitats of deep cultural importance for future generations..

Learn More & Connect With Us

The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians hold a rich and vibrant heritage, deeply intertwined with the Californian landscape from Malibu to Paso Robles. They are continually dedicated to preserving their traditions and managing their ancestral lands sustainably.

Learn More Contact Us