Mission site leases are vital to the Navajo Nation, enabling faith-based organizations to provide essential services to their communities. Under Public Law 106-568 and the Navajo Nation General Leasing Regulations of 2013, religious entities can lease land for mission sites without requiring approval from the Secretary of the Interior. These leases are reviewed and approved by the General Land Development Department (GLDD). The leases must include a comprehensive Environmental Review (ER) to ensure compliance with tribal and federal regulations.
ETD, Inc. specializes in supporting mission site lease applications by completing ERs that address environmental and cultural requirements. Recently, we successfully renewed the mission site lease for the Church of the Nazarene in Leupp, Arizona. The renewed lease will allow this organization to continue its vital work in the community.
Spotlight: Church of the Nazarene, Leupp, Arizona
Located off Navajo Route 15, the Church of the Nazarene in Leupp occupies a two-acre site originally granted in April 1970. The renewal process included a biological clearance based on a Categorical Exclusion and a Class III Pedestrian Cultural Resource Inventory Survey. With no additional developments planned for the lease area, the renewal focused on maintaining the existing mission site’s integrity and ensuring its continued operation under tribal and environmental standards.
This lease renewal underscores the importance of mission sites in remote areas like Leupp, where they often serve as community hubs. Churches provide critical services such as counseling, family support, and host food banks, clothing drives, weddings, funerals, and holiday celebrations.
A Legacy of Supporting Mission Site Leases
For over 20 years, ETD has supported churches and other faith-based organizations by preparing Environmental Reviews for mission site leases across Navajo Nation. These efforts help sustain institutions that offer essential services in areas where public facilities are limited. Some of the mission site lease renewals ETD has completed include:
- Newcomb Baptist Church – Newcomb, NM
- Covenant of Faith Church – Hidden Springs, AZ
- Inscription House Full Gospel Church – Inscription House, AZ
- Nazlini Church of the Nazarene – Nazlini, AZ
Each project reflects our commitment to preserving the cultural and spiritual significance of these sites while ensuring compliance with environmental and tribal regulations.
The Importance of Mission Site Leases
Mission site leases play a crucial role in community development across the Navajo Nation. Churches and faith-based organizations often fill gaps left by limited public infrastructure. They not only act as centers for spiritual guidance, but social support. ETD’s work ensures these leases remain compliant, allowing churches to continue making a positive impact in their communities.
By facilitating the lease renewal process, ETD empowers these institutions to thrive, reinforcing their contributions to the well-being of the Navajo Nation.
Partner with ETD for Mission Site Leases
Navigating the mission site lease process can be complex, but ETD’s expertise ensures a seamless experience. From Environmental Reviews to cultural resource surveys, we provide the support needed to secure and renew mission site leases.
Learn more about our Environmental Review services!
Navajo Nation General Land Development Department website