The nonprofit Friends of the Medicine Wheel is a partner with the USDA Forest Service, providing funding to protect and preserve the Medicine Wheel for future generations.

An overriding caveat of our Mission, Goal, and Purpose is to be sensitive to tribal concerns, such as, commercialization, attracting more visitors, and creating impacts to the site. In addition, we are independent from the Forest Service (the managing agency) and will operate in a collaborative environment. Therefore, our Mission is …

“To Educate People About and Preserve the Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark”

The purpose of the Friends of the Medicine Wheel is to raise funds for use in and around the Medicine Wheel. It is recognized that the Forest Service does not have an adequate amount of funding to fulfill the requirements of the Historic Preservation Plan signed in 1996 for education and facilities to protect and preserve the site.

“The goal of the Friends of the Medicine Wheel is to educate, protect, and preserve the traditional and cultural values of the Medicine Wheel National Historic Landmark. This goal will be achieved through raising and providing funding for education (interpretation, information, and research) and protection and preservation (site enhancement, facilities, and infrastructure). Collaborative partnerships to develop management strategies with tribes, Indian organizations, and government agencies is instrumental to achieving this goal.”

We are proud to be working with the USDA Forest Service and the accomplishments they have made in implementing the Historic Preservation Plan for the site. During Summer 2002, the steel fence was removed and replaced with log posts and rope railing. The parking lot has been reconstructed in a natural design that fits with the natural surrounding.

And finally, the area around Five Springs Saddle has been rebuilt to educate visitors on the importance on Indian culture and the Medicine Wheel.

A high quality and professional interpretative program continues to educate visitors about the spiritual and cultural significance of the site.  Click here to view pictures of recent accomplishments at the Medicine Wheel.

All new and future facilities will be designed to meet accessibility standards, blend into the natural environment, and be sensitive to the needs of traditional Indian People using the site.

Your contribution is greatly appreciated and tax deductible.

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