The Dine people are a cultural presence, we are defined by our historical identity, social kinship, language, and traditional values all maintained within the boundaries of the Four Sacred Mountains. A well defined geographical and spiritual boundary we call Dine Beke'yah (Navajo Nation). Agriculture and livestock have always been key to the evolution of Navajo society, economy, and in our development as a sovereign Nation.

Livestock ownership and agriculture are timeless symbols of resourcefulness, prosperity and social status. These are gifts bestowed by Holy Ones and are central to Dine philosophy of Nizhonigo 'lina (beauty way of life). The adherence to this philosophy, identity and cultural uniqueness is maintained among the Dine people, and is recognized as the core foundation of our sovereignty.

The Navajo Nation is one of the largest federally recognized Indian tribes in North America. The Navajo Indian Reservation covers an area that extends into the states of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah, an estimated land base of 25,351 square miles or roughly the size of West Virginia. There are currently, 253,124 enrolled tribal members with 168,000 individuals, who currently reside on the Navajo Nation. It is estimated that eighty-two percent (82%) of the total population speak the Navajo language, and still practice the traditional Navajo lifestyle.

The socio-economic conditions on the Navajo Nation are highlighted by limited employment opportunities; the current unemployment rate is 48.5 percent, and average household income is $8,240, well below the federal poverty guidelines. These factors indicate a need for implementation of agricultural programs, policies, regulations, and conservation programs to revitalize our rural economy for self-sufficiency.