Description:
The Bureau of Indian Affairs responsibility is the administration and management of 55.7 million acres of land held in trust by the United States for American Indians, Indian tribes, and Alaskan natives. There are 566 federal recognized tribal governments in the United States. Developing forestlands, leasing assets on these lands, directing agricultural programs, protecting water and land rights, developing and maintaining infrastructure and economic development are all part of the agency's responsibilities. In addition, the Bureau of Indian Affairs provides education services to approximately 42,000 Indian students. The Bureau of Indian Affairs is part of the Department of the Interior.