The Council of Energy Resource Tribes was founded by Indian Tribes out of necessity and out of a profound sense of collective self-confidence - the confidence that they could chart a new course of prudent development that would address Tribal priorities and values while contributing to a more secure energy future for all Americans.

Since the inception of The Council of Energy Resource Tribes, the farsighted leaders have dramatically restructured the federal-Indian relationship regarding mineral development on Indian lands and have forged alliances and partnerships with industry.

From the beginning, the CERT member Tribes maintained complete management of their valuable resources. Tribes participate in all aspects of managing their resources - from negotiating agreements, protecting the environment, realizing the value of water and other resources to verifying revenue payments.