1. The author recently returned from working with the Peace Corps where they taught sustainable farming practices to a local community. This experience sparked their interest in studying modern pine nut exploitation by native tribes in the Great Basin. 2. The author plans to research how native tribes currently harvest and consume pine nuts to determine if it remains a sustainable and beneficial food source for their diet and culture. The research will include experimental harvesting, analyzing historical accounts and traditions, and surveying current tribal members. 3. The goal is to understand how modern pine nut exploitation compares to traditional practices and its potential to positively impact tribal health if used as a traditional food source again. The research may show pine nuts remain a sustainable resource that preserves cultural traditions