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P2 News Archive |
Archived Tribal News Articles:
| Air, earth, water: Wampanoag lab keeps tabs on environment 09/01/2010 Kendra Newick, manager of the Wampanoag Environmental Lab in Aquinnah, likes to know her work prevents people from getting sick. She is responsible for a wide range of environmental testing of soil, water, air, and food on the Island. Original Story |
| New Study Links Toxic Pollutants to Canadian Oil Sands Mining 08/30/2010 Native Canadians living downstream from the oil sands mines in Alberta have long contended that their high cancer rates were related to the expanding excavation of bitumen for the production of synthetic crude. Original Story |
| Poarch Band of Creek Indians receives forestry honors 08/30/2010 Leaders of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians were surprised by the announcement that they had achieved three prestigious certifications for their stewardship and forest management activities on the Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve. Original Story |
| Sacred site gets respite 08/30/2010 A site in rural San Diego County deemed culturally and environmentally sensitive by Indians was given a respite Aug. 5 from being turned into a landfill Original Story |
| Mashantuckets toast new power plant 08/19/2010 Foxwoods Resort Casino's tribal owner celebrated the startup of a $35.7 million power plant Wednesday that engineers say reduces pollution and moves the tribe's businesses closer to energy independence. Original Story |
| The life and death of Desert Rock 08/13/2010 The Navajo Nation's proposed coal plant always rested on shaky ground. Now, it may collapse entirely. Original Story |
| EPA Announces $200,000 in Environmental Justice Grants to Support Communities Directly Affected by BP Oil Spill 08/09/2010 The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is accepting proposals for up to eight $25,000 cooperative agreements to support the protection of human health and the environment in communities affected by the BP oil spill. Local incorporated non-profit community-based organizations -- including faith based organizations and those affiliated with religious institutions, environmental justice networks, and local Native American tribal governments -- located and working in areas within affected states, are eligible to apply. Original Story |
| Yakama Nation blocks Hawaiian garbage destined for landfill on ancestral lands 08/06/2010 Hawaii's bid to ship their household garbage to a landfill amid the ancestral lands of the Yakama Nation in south central Washington state was blocked at the last minute by a federal judge, who approved a restraining order filed by the tribe. Original Story |
| Battle over Pebble Mine shifts to EPA 08/03/2010 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Director Lisa Jackson met with tribal leaders from Alaska who oppose the Pebble Mine, a $300-billion copper, molybdenum and gold deposit at the headwaters of Bristol Bay, and the tribes asked Jackson to invoke a provision of the federal Clean Water Act to stop the mine, a move Alaska's lone congressman is working to block with legislation that would eliminate the EPA's authority to veto such a project. Original Story |
| Coming together in the name of air quality 08/02/2010 Rosalie Kalistook, Orutsararmiut, Department of Natural Resources Environmental Coordinator presented "Climate Change in Rural Alaska," a slide show and discussion exemplifying the catastrophic effects of climate change on tribal peoples -- just one of many workshops offered during the 2010 National Tribal Forum on Air Quality held July 13 -- 15 Original Story |
| Tribal Members Turn to the Sun to Generate Electricity at Reservation 07/26/2010 The Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe in western Nevada is using the sun to generate much of the electricity for its high school, medical clinic, museum and other community buildings. Original Story |
| EPA sets Pebble mine listening sessions 07/25/2010 Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa P. Jackson is in Alaska this week to meet with the Pebble Limited Partnership in Anchorage, then travel to Dillingham to hold a listening session with local, economic and tribal groups. Original Story |
| State takes new look at how much fish is safe to eat 07/25/2010 Under state law, Washington's lakes, streams, estuaries and nearshore coastal waters only need to be clean enough for residents to safely consume one serving of fish a month. Yet, for many state residents, local fish and shellfish are a much bigger part of their diet than that, whether it's bass caught from the dock of a lake, a dozen oysters served up at a waterfront restaurant or salmon grilled on a backyard barbecue. And for many tribes across Washington, fish are not just central to their diet but a core part of their cultural and spiritual lives as well. Original Story |
| Tribal Green and Healthy Schools Workshop held in Rapid City, SD 07/22/2010 EPA Region 8, the Aberdeen Area Tribal Chairmen's Health Board and the Indian Health Service provided a 2.5 day workshop on July 13-15, 2010. It was attended by 47 Native Americans from 12 Tribes and 11 Reservations, representing tribal schools and tribal environmental departments mainly from North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wyoming. Attendees pledged to complete environmental or health projects at their schools. Topics covered included: Children's Environmental Health, ENERGY STAR, Recycling, Composting, Waste Reduction, Pollution Prevention, PCBs in Caulk, Lead Based Paint, School Chemical Cleanout, Integrated Pest Management, Indoor Air, Asthma, Asbestos, Environmental Justice and Grant Application Training. Peaks to Prairies' Myla Kelly gave presentations on Green Cleaning and Waste Reduction. Original Story |
| Nez Perce Oppose Oil-Gear Shipments Through Idaho 07/05/2010 The Nez Perce tribe in north-central Idaho said Friday it doesn't want 200 over-sized loads of oil-field equipment traveling a reservation highway en route to an oil sands project in Canada. Original Story |
| Heralded Pact for Tribal Grass-fed Beef Ends 06/21/2010 Indians and whites have been doing business together since the time of Columbus -- almost invariably to the Indians' detriment. But the announcement last year that the Northern Arapaho tribe had been tapped to supply organic grass-fed beef to Whole Foods Markets seemed like a win for all concerned: The tribe would make money off its land, the grocery chain would score points for environmental and social responsibility, and consumers would enjoy the health and culinary benefits of eating free-range beef with a Native American pedigree. Original Story |
| Tribal Internship Students Energize Alternative Fuel Science 06/18/2010 Tribal lands make up only five percent of the United States' total land area, but represent enormous potential for the production of renewable energy. The 55 million acres of land across the nation controlled by Native American tribes can potentially produce an estimated 535 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity from wind power and more than 17 trillion kilowatt-hours from solar energy. These projections are equivalent to more than four times the amount of electricity generated annually in the United States, and represent new economic and employment opportunities for many Native American communities. Original Story |
| Tribes tout Hagerman salmon recovery efforts 06/18/2010 Salmon have been part of the American Indian story since time immemorial. Chinook, sockeye, chum, pink and Coho salmon and steelhead trout were all once thriving species used for trade, food and spiritual purposes. But then the dams came and the environment changed. Urbanization and deforestation swept through the West and the salmon began to disappear. Original Story |
| Tribes prepare for impacts of climate change 06/16/2010 "Let's clear up some misconceptions about global climate change," Lara Whitely Binder, of the Climate Impacts Group, told tribal representatives gathered at a climate change adaptation training course. Original Story |
| EPA monitors air-quality near school on Idaho reservation 06/11/2010 Federal environmental regulators have completed air quality testing around a northcentral Idaho tribal high school that's among 64 U.S. schools being monitored to determine possible health effects on kids. Original Story |
| Cape Wind opponents draw environmental and political parallels to Gulf oil disaster 06/10/2010 As opponents of a massive wind energy factory in Nantucket Sound watch the impact of energy giant BP's oil blowout on the ocean and delicate ecosystems of the Louisiana coast, they are drawing parallels between the energy projects and warning that another environmental disaster is likely to happen in the waters off Cape Cod. Original Story |
| TOP going Green 05/25/2010 The EBCI Tribal Operations (TOP) office is going green. They are now offering the monthly Tribal Council packets (agendas) for Budget Council and the regular Tribal Council meeting in electronic format that can be downloaded to a computer. In the past, it has not been uncommon for these packets to number several hundred pieces of paper each. Original Story |
| Onondaga Nation and environmental partners win prestigious EPA award 05/20/2010 The Onondaga Nation and its environmental partners were honored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency with the highest recognition presented to the public. Original Story |
| Chickasaws open CNG station 05/17/2010 Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby was joined by more than 100 tribal officials, citizens, employees and guests in a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling station Tuesday, May 11. The station is located at the Ada Travel Plaza, 201 Latta Road, in Ada, Okla. Original Story |
| Tribes restore Jocko River watershed in Montana 05/05/2010 Following a flood in the 1940s, man set about teaching the Jocko River a thing or two. Original Story |
| Senate panel uses Colorado tribe's energy policy as template 05/02/2010 Federal legislation is being drafted that attempts to replicate some of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe's success in energy development on reservations across the country. Original Story |
| Members of Passamaquoddy Tribe Keep LNG Terminal Off Tribal Land 04/28/2010 The federal Bureau of Indian Affairs has canceled the developer's lease of Passamaquoddy tribal land in Maine where the company wanted to build a liquefied natural gas terminal. Original Story |
| Salazar approves Cape Wind 04/28/2010 America's "energy future" has trumped the most cherished sacred site of the People of the Dawn -- the indigenous Wampanoags who welcomed the first European settler colonists to Turtle Island. Original Story |
| Barona's New Tribal Government Facility Awarded LEEDTM Silver Certification From U.S. Green Building Council 04/21/2010 The Barona Band of Mission Indians announced today that it has been awarded LEED(TM) Silver level certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) for its new Tribal Government building. LEED is the nation's preeminent program for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings, established by the USGBC and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute Original Story |
| Hard scientific weather data meets traditional Inuit knowledge 04/18/2010 For the last 15 years, the Inuit have reported that Arctic weather has been less stable and more unpredictable. Now, scientists are listening. Original Story |
| Federal task force climate change report parallels Swinomish Tribe report 04/06/2010 Climate change is now and will continue to affect nearly every aspect of our society and the environment, increasing the severity of floods, droughts, and heat waves, wildfires, and sea level rise, an interim Progress Report of the Interagency Climate Change Adaptation Task Force released March 16 states. Original Story |
| New report provides tribal energy outlook 04/06/2010 A new report finds that tribes disproportionately bear negative costs resulting from U.S. energy policy and its aftereffects, yet there is substantial potential on tribal lands to generate clean energy from renewable resources. Original Story |
| Port Gamble Tribe begins environmental assessments in Kingston 04/01/2010 The Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe (PGST), through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), will begin environmental assessment activities on the Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribal Lands and areas in the Kingston/Port Gamble Bay vicinity. Original Story |
| Indian tribes can help US ease effects of climate change - report 03/29/2010 Tribal lands can play a significant role in helping the US meet renewable energy goals, while providing green jobs, income and natural resource protection for economically depressed communities, according to a report by the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). Original Story |
| Coastal First Nations Oppose Canada Tar Sands Pipeline 03/23/2010 The Coastal First Nations, a coalition of aboriginal communities in Canada's Great Bear Rainforest, publicly announced their strong opposition this week to the Northern Gateway pipeline, a project would would run tar sands oil from Alberta to a port near the Pacific Ocean. Original Story |
| Navajo Activists Win Victory, Open Coal Talks to Public 03/23/2010 When Navajo activist Anna Frazier heard the news last December, she immediately understood that the seemingly small act was a big deal. For the first time, the Navajo tribal government would open to the public its negotiations with Peabody Energy over its royalty rates for coal extracted at Black Mesa's Kayenta mine. Instead of rubber-stamping another 10-year lease with Peabody, there would be open discussion of the lease agreement that brings millions of dollars to the Navajo Nation and earns many more millions for Peabody, the largest coal mining company in the world. Original Story |
| 42 Tribal Wildlife Grants Awarded in 16 States 02/27/2010 The Hopi Tribe will conduct an assessment of golden eagles in Arizona, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians will restore longleaf pine habitat in Alabama, the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe will develop a Tribal Wildlife Management Plan for their reservation in New York, and in Washington state the Jamestown S'Kllalm Tribe will work towards restoring the Dungeness Elk Herd to its historic range. Original Story |
| Tribal Youth Group Rises to Fight Problems Exacerbated by Oil Spill 02/12/2010 With the BP crisis as their impetus, the 'Bayou Healers' aim to publicize environmental concerns and strengthen a weakened tribal identity. Original Story |
| Onondaga Nation leaders to talk of land rights, treaties, the environment in yearlong lecture series in Syracuse 02/02/2010 Much has changed since Onondaga Nation leaders held a yearlong series of lectures at Syracuse Stage four years ago about treaties, land claims and the environment. Representatives of the American Indian nation helped persuade New York and Onondaga County to use "green" alternatives instead of building several more sewage treatment plants to stop raw sewage from flowing into Onondaga Creek. Onondagas also have been leading the drive to derail New York's plan to allow companies to use high volume hydraulic drilling, or hydrofracking, to capture natural gas reserves. Original Story |
| EPA's Budget Proposal Seeks Efficiencies, Increased Environmental Protection 02/01/2010 The budget includes $1.3 billion for state and tribal grants. State and local governments are working diligently to implement new and expanded requirements under the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act. New and expanded requirements include implementation of updated NAAQS and addressing emerging water quality issues such as nutrient pollution. Original Story |
| Workshops focus on benefits of growing oilseed crops in Southern High Plains 01/29/2010 Farmers are seeing more and more benefits of growing oilseed crops, from the plants' health benefits to their potential as biofuel. Now, researchers at New Mexico State University are doing oilseed workshops -- the next one in Clovis Feb. 5 -- to give farmers information about production and marketing opportunities for oilseed crops. Original Story |
| Mashantuckets to begin generating much of their own power 01/17/2010 In terms of its energy needs, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation - its casinos, museum and everything else on its reservation - could become an island unto itself in a few years. A big "green" island. Or maybe "light green." Original Story |
| NM Tribe is Betting on Solar Energy 01/14/2010 A poverty-stricken Indian tribe that holds the sun and nature's other gifts sacred sees a brighter future for itself in solar power. The 3,000 members of the Jemez Pueblo are on the verge of building the nation's first utility-scale solar plant on tribal land, a project that could bring in millions of dollars. Original Story |
| New argument in polar bear debate 01/07/2010 As the federal government considers designating a vast swath of the Alaska Arctic critical habitat for polar bears, some people who have inhabited the region for more than 10,000 years say their modern way of life -- dependent now on resource extraction and other economic development -- deserves preservation, too. Original Story |
| U.S.: "We All Breathe the Same Air and Drink the Same Water" 12/05/2009 Some 8,000 kilometres from the Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Native American environmental experts from 66 tribes came together at a summit here this week to address the most pressing needs in their communities - problems, all emphasised, that know no geographic boundaries. These include water and air pollution, superfund cleanup, mining and illegal dumping, as well as the impacts of climate change. Original Story |
| Nevada Tribes Win Halt to Barrick Gold Mine Expansion 12/03/2009 The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals today ordered that a preliminary injunction be granted to tribal plaintiffs that halts the expansion of the Cortez gold mine in Nevada owned by Barrick Gold Corporation, a Canadian company based in Toronto. Original Story |
| Montana State University hosts wind-energy update 12/02/2009 Landowners concerned with commercial wind lease agreements and people interested in community wind projects or small wind systems will have an opportunity to learn about wind energy Monday in Great Falls, and Dec. 8 in Cut Bank. Montana State University Extension is providing the two one-day training sessions on issues of wind energy, ranging from commercial wind development and land-leasing issues to small wind system information for homeowners, and ownership options for communities. Original Story |
| Obama Names Armendariz as Region 6 Chief 12/02/2009 President Barack Obama has selected Alfredo "Al" Armendariz, Ph.D., to be the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's regional administrator for Region 6, which is based in Dallas. Region 6 encompasses Louisiana, Arkansas, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, and 66 Tribal Nations. Original Story |
| Climate declaration in the works at Mystic Lake 11/23/2009 An inimitable gathering of grassroots organizers and environmental advocates representing tribal regions across the United States met Friday to write a declaration on global warming impacts on indigenous peoples. As part of the Native Peoples Native Homelands Climate Change Workshop II, more than 300 people gathered at the Mystic Lake Casino Conference Center to write the Mystic Lake Declaration. Original Story |
| Obama Promises Tribal Leaders Help With Environmental Issues 11/06/2009 "Figuring out how we can improve environmental coordination with the tribal nations so that we're matching the energy agenda with an environmental agenda I think is going to be not only good for native peoples, it's also going to be good for the United States generally. And we have a lot to learn from your nations in order to create the kind of sustainability in our environment that we so desperately need," Obama said. Original Story |
| Tribe's environmental fight - coal mines and power plant give Navajos income, controversy 11/02/2009 A green controversy fueled by coal-fired power plants is raging on America's largest Indian reservation. On one side is Joe Shirley Jr., president of the Navajo Nation, who rejects the notion of climate change even though he recently won an international award for environmentalism. On the other are environmentalists opposed to power plants in Indian Country and to the coal mines that provide their fuel. Caught in the middle are tribal members concerned with economic survival and the protection of sacred lands. Original Story |
| US-Mexico Environmental Projects To Be Announced 10/29/2009 Safe drinking water, getting rid of old tires, disaster readiness, improving air quality and border infrastructure are among the issues being discussed at The National Coordinators Meeting. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency officials, their counterparts from the Mexico's Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources, as well nongovernmental groups and native Americans on both sides are participating in the discussion. Original Story |
| Environmental groups respond sharply to their ouster 10/11/2009 The battle waged against a major coal company by Hopi and Navajo activists and against large environmental groups by tribal officials has, at least temporarily, intensified the conflict playing out in northern Arizona over the control, preservation and use of cultural and natural resources. "I never thought I would see the day when being 'Hopi' meant being anti-environment, pro-big corporate energy, and actually promoting pollution and global warming in favor of 'the almighty dollar,'" Alph Secakuku said. Original Story |
| Some tribes at odds over coal plants 10/01/2009 The president of the Navajo Nation joined other Native American leaders this week in assailing environmentalists who have sought to block or shut down coal-fired power plants that provide vital jobs and revenue to tribes in northern Arizona. Original Story |
| Action Alert: Native American Challenge Demonstration Project Act of 2009 09/28/2009 On May 19, 2009, the Native American Challenge Demonstration Project Act of 2009 (HR. 2507) was introduced in the House of Representatives. It was also introduced in the Senate on May 9, 2009, as S. 960. Currently, it has been assigned to committee for review in both the House of Representatives (Natural Resources Committee) and in the Senate (Committee on Indian Affairs). Keep this Bill in the Limelight and Urge its Passage! Original Story |
| Air Permit for Coal Power Plant on Navajo Land Sent Back to EPA 09/28/2009 The contested air permit for the Sithe Global Desert Rock coal-fired power plant on the Navajo Reservation in New Mexico today was sent back to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for additional analysis. Original Story |
| New round of plaintiffs sue to stop snowmaking at Arizona resort 09/22/2009 Save the Peaks Coalition and nine individuals in Flagstaff filed suit Monday in the U.S. District Court in Arizona against the U.S. Forest Service. The plaintiffs contend the agency did not adequately weigh or analyze the human health or environmental risks of making snow with reclaimed wastewater, in violation of the National Environmental Policy Act and other federal laws. They are seeking an injunction to prevent snowmaking at Snowbowl until the case is decided. Original Story |
| Suagee: Tribal sovereignty and the green energy revolution 09/21/2009 On Sept. 8, Sen. Tom Udall, D-N.M., and Sen. Max Baucus, D-Mont., hosted a briefing for Senate staff on the inclusion of tribal governments in pending bills to deal with the climate crisis and promote renewable energy and energy efficiency. The panel of speakers was coordinated by the National Congress of American Indians and National Tribal Environmental Council. Original Story |
| DOE to Fund up to $454 Million for Retrofit Ramp-Ups in Energy Efficiency 09/14/2009 U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu today announced a new $450 million program designed to catalyze a nationwide energy upgrade that experts estimate could save $100 million annually in utility bills for households and businesses. The Recovery Act's "Retrofit Ramp-Up" program will pioneer innovative models for rolling out energy efficiency to hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses in a variety of communities. Much like past roll-outs for cable TV or the Internet, the Department of Energy (DOE) intends to create models that, when undertaken nationally, will save consumers billions of dollars on their utility bills and make the huge savings of energy efficiency available to everyone. Original Story |
| Efforts to Keep Enbridge Pipeline Off Reservation 08/31/2009 Cass Lake, MN: In a decision issued on August 19th, Leech Lake Tribal Court Judge BJ Jones declined an attempt by Enbridge LLC to keep members of the Leech Lake tribe from voting on Enbridge's contract with the Leech Lake Council. The decision keeps alive a David versus Goliath lawsuit between members of the Leech Lake tribe and Enbridge LLC. Original Story |
| Councilor sees opportunity in wind farming 08/13/2009 Wind power is blowing across the country, and at least one Tulsa city councilor hopes to harness some of it from a proposed Cherokee Nation wind farm."I think this is exactly what we need," Councilor Dennis Troyer said about capturing the renewable energy source to reduce the city's power costs.Troyer is driving the city's research into wind energy. He said he was just following the lead of former Councilor Roscoe Turner, who raised the issue two years ago. Original Story |
| Tribes urged to support renewable energy legislation 07/07/2009 Legislation has been introduced in the House and Senate that would allow tribes to hold an un-penalized equity position in renewable energy projects built on their reservations. The political climate is right, tribal advocates say, to make progress in an area that would spur job creation and clean energy production on many reservations. The bill that's got tribal energy folks excited at the moment is known as the Fair Credit Act. Its long name is the Fair Allocation of Internal Revenue Credit for Renewable Electricity Distribútion by Indian Tribes Act. Original Story |
| Green energy may provide an economic boost to the Navajo Nation 02/11/2009 The current thrust toward energy independence may offer the Navajo Nation an opportunity to create green jobs, initiate an economic renewal and revive traditional enterprises, according to tribal advocates. A new Navajo Green Economy Coalition is preparing a resolution for the council that, if approved, would allocate $6 to $10 million for a Navajo Green Energy Commission and Navajo Green Economy Fund. The coalition was formed to help transition and diversify the Navajo economy to one that is long-lasting, sustainable and healthy through a green jobs initiative that includes "generally, low-polluting and recycling interactions with the environment," she said. Original Story |
| Wizipan Garriott named Obama's First Americans Public Liaison 01/08/2009 Wizipan Garriott, 28, has been appointed First Americans Public Liaison, a newly created position in President-elect Barack Obama's transition team. The position is aimed at honoring a nation-to-nation relationship with tribes. Garriott, a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, could not offer comment on the development, as members of Obama's transition team have been instructed not to talk about their specific contributions. Garriott's position on the transition group brings the total number of Native Americans serving on it to seven. Indian Country Today previously reported that John Echohawk, Keith Harper, Robert Anderson, Mary Smith, Mary McNeil and Yvette Robideaux all hold positions on the team. Garriott, whose first name means "burden" in Lakota, graduated from Yale University in 2003 with a degree in American studies. He then went on to work as an assistant to former Sen. Tom Daschle, D-S.D., who has been a key player in the Obama campaign and was recently tapped to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. After Daschle lost his bid for re-election in 2004, Garriott attended the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law in Tucson, and obtained a law degree there in June. In 2005, he also helped incorporate the He Sapa Leadership Academy, a college preparatory school on his reservation for students in grades eight to 12. As Daschle became involved with Obama's campaign, the longtime politician ultimately recommended Garriott to become a part of the effort. Daschle's recommendation was helpful, as Garriott ended up joining the Obama campaign for president as a Native American outreach coordinator in Sept. 2007. In June, he was officially hired as the campaign's First Americans vote director. His chief objective was collaborating with tribes and Native groups, trying to get out the Native vote in many states, including New Mexico, Wisconsin, Montana and Michigan. Original Story |
| Native Groups Partner to Promote Green Careers 01/05/2009 A new national alliance is forming to encourage the expansion of the Green Job-Green Economy movement in Indian country. Native Workplace, Navajo Green Economy Coalition and Honor the Earth are joining forces to invite tribal members around the nation to start a green information group in their own communities. The purpose of this alliance is to ensure that green career education will reach everyone in Indian country and so that all tribal members feel included and that their voice is represented. The National Native Green Alliance will be an informal network, designed to support emerging groups and promote green business development by sharing information and connections. The talking circle will have no regular meetings, no fees and no "Roberts rules." Events will be promoted throughout the network. Original Story |
| Native nonprofit to focus on green-collar careers 09/02/2008 A new Native-operated 501(c)(3) is turning its focus on green-collar careers for American Indians and veterans. Native Workplace is officially announcing its new effort to help the community connect with the thousands of careers created by growth in renewable energy industries. Native Workplace is focusing on two main goals: educating the community and recruiting tribal members and veterans into training and employment nationwide. Original Story |
| Northwest SEED Releases Northwest Tribal Energy Planning Guidebook 09/02/2008 With funding provided by the Bullitt Foundation, Northwest Sustainable Energy for Economic Development (Northwest SEED) just released a new tool to help Native American tribes develop a plan to achieve energy independence. Energy Planning: A Guide for Northwest Indian Tribes contains information and resources to help select and implement projects to conserve energy, generate clean renewable energy, construct efficient and environmentally friendly buildings, and other energy-related community or business projects-all tailored to the geography of the Northwest and the people of its tribes. The guidebook is designed to help tribes tackle energy planning in three primary ways. First, the guidebook presents information on the process of developing an energy plan. Second, the guidebook provides in-depth information about conservation and efficiency, renewable energy, green building, and other special project types. Finally, the guidebook includes a full section on resources and financing for both developing and implementing a tribal energy plan. For more or to obtain a copy of the guide, contact Leslie Moynihan, Project Manager, Northwest SEED, at (206) 267-2215 or leslie@nwseed.org Original Story |
| DOE creates Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs 10/31/2007 The new U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs, to reside within Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs, will assist DOE's work with tribes to promote clean, reliable and affordable energy. Original Story |
| Student can apply for internships with DOE's Tribal Energy Program 10/31/2007 The US Department of Energy's Tribal Energy Program is offering 2008 summer internships to Native American students interested in renewable energy. To be considered, they must be current college upper-classmen or graduate students, and apply by February 22, 2008. Interns will assist a cross-disciplinary team to perform specific tasks at Sandia National Laboratories, and gain experience with a variety of renewable energy systems. The program pays relocation expenses and salary commensurate with academic status in an appropriate technical major. For questions, contact Sandra K. Begay-Campbell, Sandia National Laboratories at (505)844-5418 or skbegay@sandia.gov. Original Story |
| Tribes receive federal funds for renewable energy strategies 10/31/2007 The U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy is providing up to $2 million for 15 Native American tribes and Alaskan villages to support the advancement of renewable energy technologies on tribal lands and rural Alaskan villages. In Montana, the Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Reservation will use $117,000 to develop a strategic energy plan to incorporate the use of biomass resources that could be used for heating selected facilities. Other funded tribes are located in Alaska, California, New York, North Carolina, Oregon and Wisconsin. Most of the grants involve planning for the development of alternative energy sources. Original Story |
| Tribal access to water infrastructure
08/13/2007 The Environmental Protection Agency and four other federal agencies signed two important tribal infrastructure agreements to improve water infrastructure on tribal lands and focus efforts to increase access to safe drinking water and basic wastewater facilities to tribes. The first agreement promotes coordination between federal tribal infrastructure programs and financial services. The second agreement was created to improve access to safe drinking water and wastewater facilities on tribal lands. The agreements were signed by EPA, the Department of the Interior, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Original Story |
| Tribal P2 Workgroup asking for input from Tribal leaders and environmental professionals 05/31/2007 The NPPR Tribal Workgroup consists of environmental professionals from tribal entities, local, state and federal agencies, academia, and not-for-profit organizations whose mission is to work collaboratively with tribes throughout the United States in reducing the environmental and health risks associated with the generation of waste in or on tribal lands. A geographically dispersed team, the group meets monthly via conference call. The Workgroup's primary project to date has been to launch the Tribal Pollution Prevention Web Portal (www.tribalp2.org). The Workgroup needs feedback to discern whether the web portal is meeting needs as envisioned, and what other projects the Workgroup should consider to support tribal programming for pollution prevention (P2). The Workgroup invites you to please click on the link to take the needs assessment survey. Original Story |
| Blueprint for Greening Affordable Housing 05/23/2007 Global Green Publications offers this document to support community-based affordable housing developers. The publication demonstrates environmental building principles through case studies. It also offers recommendations for design, construction and operation. Original Story |
| Funds for "green" rural housing 05/23/2007 The Housing Assistance Council has Green Fund Capacity Grants of up to $15,000 to promote the effective use of green building technologies for the development of affordable rural housing. Selected grant recipients must use the awarded funds to support green building/healthy homes techniques and practices in housing developments. Supported by Home Depot, applications are due July 15. Original Story |
| CO, WY: September listening sessions on "cooperative conservation" 08/28/2006 The Secretaries of Agriculture, Interior, Commerce, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Chairman of the White House Council on Environmental Quality have announced the dates and locations of the next set of listening sessions on cooperative conservation and environmental partnerships. Sites in Region 8 are: Colorado Springs, Colorado, 9 a.m., Sept. 15, 2006, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, the Gymnasium. USDA Under Secretary Mark Rey will attend. Pinedale, Wyoming, 1 p.m., Sept. 19, 2006; Sublette County Library, Lovatt Room, 156 S. Tyler. Michael Bogert, Counselor to the Secretary of the Interior, will attend. The listening sessions give citizens an opportunity to exchange ideas on incentives, partnership programs, and regulations that can improve results and promote cooperative conservation and environmental partnerships. Specific questions will include: * How can the federal government enhance wildlife habitat, species protection, and other conservation outcomes through regulatory and voluntary conservation programs? * How can the federal government enhance cooperation among federal agencies and with states, tribes, and local communities in the application of environmental protection and conservation laws? * How can the federal government work with states, tribes, and other public- and private-sector partners to improve science used in environmental protection and conservation? * How can the federal government work cooperatively with businesses and landowners to protect the environment and promote conservation? * How can the federal government better respect the interests of people with ownership in land, water, and other natural resources? Original Story |
| Environmental Justice grant programs 08/01/2006 EPA is requesting two types of proposals addressed to environmental justice. Both are due 10/23/06. The ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE COLLABORATIVE PROBLEM-SOLVING PROGRAM seeks to build the capacity of community-based organizations to address environmental and/or public health issues at the local level. $1 million expected to be available, 10 awards anticipated. The ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE SMALL GRANTS PROGRAM (EJSG) seeks to support and empower communities that are working on local solutions to local environmental and/or public health issues. The EJSG Program is designed to assist recipients in building collaborative partnerships that will help them understand and address the environmental and/or public health issues in their communities. $500K expected to be available, up to 10 awards anticipated. Original Story |
| Water Update - new publication from the National Water Program 08/01/2006 The National Water Program, a Partnership of USDA Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service (CSREES) and the Land-Grant universities, has begun publishing the Water Update. The first issue focuses on findings of a survey of state Water Quality Coordinators based at land-grant colleges. One finding was that most of the Coordinators had mostly Extension appointments, but Coordinators from the "1994 land-grants" (Tribal Colleges) did not have Extension dollars supporting their appointments. By far the Coordinators considered EPA and the State environmental agencies their most important partners (as opposed to agricultural or health agencies). The most significant areas of their water programming expertise were watershed management, and drinking water & human health, followed by pollution assessment (programming to help various types of resource managers to recognize their pollution contributions in order to take action to prevent pollution). These 3 areas were also considered the top programming needs. One comment among many on the current state of the National Water Program partnership was that the partnership needs, "more proactive attention to needs and issues in Indian country: training, education and resources." The survey asked Coordinators about emerging issues. Responses included pharmaceutical contaminants, endocrine disruptors, water security and scarcity, and pollution assessment and prevention. Many of the concerns expressed for the future of the program addressed the shift in USDA/CSREES funding from Extension to Research. Original Story |
| Environmental Justice Small Grants Program 07/03/2006 The EJSG program administered by the US EPA is designed to provide funding for eligible applicants working on, or planning to work on, a project that addresses a local environmental and/or public health issue within an affected community. The Program is designed to help communities understand and address their exposure to multiple environmental harms and risks. The primary purposes of proposed projects should be to create and/or develop collaborative partnerships, educate the community, develop a comprehensive understanding of environmental and/or public health issues, and identify ways to address these issues at the local level. Non-profit organizations are eligible to apply for grants of up to $50,000. Due date: October 23, 2006. Original Story |
| Mercury warnings a new part of tribe's tradition 07/03/2006 Tina and Rick Van Zile are members of the Mole Lake Ojibwe tribe in northern Wisconsin. Each spring for more than 15 years, they have gone spearfishing together, engaging in a tradition for their tribe and gathering food that is vital to their diet. But in recent years they have added something new to the old ways -- they consult a color-coded map that tells them which of the more than 50 lakes in the region have the highest mercury levels. Because fishing is so central to the traditions, social life and economic sustenance of many Indian tribes, the warnings have special significance for them. Original Story |
| Tribal pesticide and special projects; 2006 request for proposals 07/03/2006 EPA's Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP), in coordination with the EPA regional offices, is soliciting pesticide and special project proposals from eligible tribes, Alaska native villages, and intertribal consortia for fiscal year (FY) 2006 funding. Under this program, cooperative agreement awards will provide financial assistance for projects that assess or reduce risks to human health and the environment from pesticide exposure. The total amount of funding available for award in FY 2006 is expected to be approximately $400,000, with a maximum funding level of $50,000 per project. Proposals must be postmarked on or before August 7, 2006. Original Story |
| Tribal: Navajo Nation Will Administer Its Clean Water Act Programs 05/10/2006 The largest Indian reservation in the US, the Navajo Nation, became the 34th tribe out of 563 US tribes to be have the EPA stamp of approval to administer Clean Water Act programs. Such programs will form the basis of water quality limitaions and discharge requirements within its jurisdiction. "We are pleased to celebrate this achievement with the Navajo Nation. We'll continue to work together to protect and restore vital water resources on tribal land," said Alexis Strauss, the EPA 's Water Division director for the Pacific Southwest region. Original Story |
| Comments requested: Profile of Tribal Government Operations 03/15/2006 EPA's Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance seeks comments on a draft "Tribal Profile" that presents information on many aspects of tribal government operations that may affect the environment. The Tribal Profile provides tribes with key information needed to comprehensively understand the environmental regulations that may apply to their tribal operations and facilitate compliance. In addition, the Tribal Profile can help tribes build their environmental compliance programs. The Tribal Profile also contains material on an array of available EPA technical and compliance assistance tools and financial and pollution prevention opportunities applicable to tribal operations. Original Story |
| Protecting cultural & natural resources and air quality in Indian Country and elsewhere along the U.S.-Mexico border 03/15/2006 EPA has published the ninth in a series of reports from the Good Neighbor Environmental Board (GNEB) advising the President and Congress on to how to better protect Native American cultural and natural resources along the U.S.-Mexico border. The report cites damage to sacred Tribal sites, and air pollution at congested border crossings. In addition to improved border security, urban growth management, and public involvement in preservation, the report recommends "greener" transportation options, including new technologies and fuels that reduce emissions, and encouraging public transportation, ridesharing, car-sharing, biking and walking in border cities. Original Story |
| MT: Master plan for the Chippewa/Cree Reservation receives architectural award 02/16/2006 An MSU professor of architecture and his student received one of the highest American architectural awards for his master plan for the Chippewa/Cree Reservation southwest of Havre, Montana. The winning plan for the 130,000-acre Rocky Boy's Reservation was an extension of a Community Design Center project. The center helps cities, towns and non-profit organizations throughout the region, offering professional architectural planning with the assistance of MSU students. The tribe's planning committee voted to use Johns and Orr's master plan as a basis for a zoning plan for the reservation. Chippewa-Cree tribal officials sought the center's guidance because they project that the reservation's population, now ranging from 2,700-4,500 people, could mushroom to 19,000 by the year 2050, largely fueled by a proposed casino and other growth. Grant from the Walking Shield Foundation and MSU's College of Arts and Architecture helped complete the plan. Original Story |
| EPA approves Navajo Nation for Clean Water Programs 02/06/2006 The EPA approved the Navajo Nation's application to control federal Clean Water Act programs, including administering water quality standards and water quality certification programs. The Navajo Nation is one of 34 tribes out of 563 nationwide to receive the approval. The tribe partner with the EPA to create water quality standards. Once these are approved, they will be the basis of water quality-based effluent limitations and other for discharge requisites. Original Story |
| Cree Village Ecolodge: An Eco-Friendly Inn 12/28/2005 The Ecolodge opened in summer 2000. Today, visitors from around the globe discover the best of the traditional Cree culture, as well as diverse outdoor activities, a comfortable bed and excellent meals, all wrapped up in the vast Canadian north in an ecologically friendly building and environment. Ecological innovations include the heating system, natural ventilation, low emission paints, energy-efficient lighting, biodegradable cleaning supplies and natural, organic furnishings. Original Story |
| Alaska Native Village Goes Green 12/06/2005 The fall 2005 issue of the magazine "Rural Voices" features a story about the Alaska village of Little Diomede. The village, with the help of the Rural Alaska Community Action Program (RuRALCAP), leveraged Bureau of Indian Affairs funds to rehabilitate homes in an energy-efficient manner. At Little Diomede, the villages housing was in dire condition and the traditional council had just voted, with great sadness, to begin relocating the villagers to the mainland. Relocation would mean not only physically uprooting families, but abandoning centuries of seafaring subsistence culture that relies on the harvesting of migratory birds and marine mammals. RurAL CAP assembled funding to rehabilitate every occupied home on the island, increasing energy efficiency through insulation, new windows, siding, and installation of high efficiency water heaters and oil stoves. In addition, durable materials replaced dilapidated structural elements, and interior mold and condensation issues were addressed. Local residents performed all the work under supervision of a RurAL CAP foreman. Fuel sales at the village store were sharply reduced, with some residents reporting a 50% reduction in fuel consumption. Family health also improved. Original Story |
| Grants Help Tribes Educate on Lead-Based Paint 12/06/2005 Several tribes within the area served by Region 9 of the Environmental Protection Agency have received grants to conduct educational outreach on the hazards of lead-based paint. The grants also provide funds to test for lead hazards in tribal homes and facilities. EPA Region 9 serves states and tribal nations in Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and the Pacific Islands. Original Story |
| $100,000 Available in Grants for Air Pollution Reduction Initiatives 11/22/2005 The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has announced the availability of two $50,000 grants to facilitate state, local or tribal innovative approaches to reducing air pollution through the demonstration of new programs, technologies, and strategies. The application deadline is January 6, 2006. View the Request for Applications (pdf). Original Story |
| Pilot Program to Make Emergency Exempted and Special Local Needs Pesticides Available In Indian Country 11/08/2005 Under federal pesticide law, growers in Indian country do not explicitly have access to pesticide emergency exemptions or special local needs registrations. On November 1 the EPA Administrator authorized two findings that will allow farmers to use the same pesticides for combating pests in emergency situations as is used on neighboring lands. To test the feasibility of this approach, the Agency is implementing two pilot projects. One project involves growers in the Yakama Reservation and other Yakama Nation Indian country in Washington State, and the other applies to growers in Indian country nationwide. The pilots will expire in December 2007, after which EPA will assess whether this approach should be continued or expanded. Original Story |
| Northern Cheyenne Settle in Coalbed Methane Suit 11/02/2005 The Northern Cheyenne Indian Tribe, a federal land agency and an energy development company have settled a lawsuit over coalbed methane drilling near the reservation, with the government agreeing to consult with the tribe on cultural issues. The tribe sued the Bureau of Land Managment for violating environmental laws, its trust responsibility to the tribe and the National Historic Preservation Act by excluding the tribe from consultation on cultural issues. Original Story |
| Environmental Protection Agency Awards Over $40 million for Tribal Environmental Projects 11/01/2005 The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency awarded more than $40 million in grants for environmental protection projects to tribes in California, Arizona and Nevada. The EPA's funding will be used to develop environmental programs, build water and sewage treatment systems, and implement air pollution control, solid waste management, watershed monitoring and restoration projects. The money will be distributed to more than 140 tribes in the region. Original Story |
| Tribal Renewable Energy Subsidies 10/25/2005 Do you have a renewable energy generation facility? If so, you may be eligible for financial incentive payments of 1.5 cents per kilowatt-hour for the first ten year period of operation for electricity produced and sold. The Department of Energys Renewable Energy Production Incentive (REPI) makes payments depending on Congressional appropriations each year. Eligible electric production facilities are those owned by State and local government entities (such as municipal utilities), not-for-profit electric cooperatives that started operations between October 1, 1993 and September 30, 2003, and beginning with the Energy Policy Act of 2005 Indian tribal governments or subdivisions thereof and Native Corporations. The point of contact for questions concerning REPI policy issues and the availability of appropriations for the REPI program is Dan Beckley . The point of contact on REPI implementation (facility qualifications, applications, and payments) is Christine Carter . Original Story |
| Hualapai Tribe At Odds with Park Service Over Recreation in Grand Canyon 10/14/2005 Arizona's Hualapai Tribe and the National Park Service are locked in a battle as to who controls the river along the 108-mile northern boundary of the reservation, in the Grand Canyon. The river tour industry transports nearly 25,000 people annually through the Grand Canyon. The Hualapais claim an executive order, signed by President Arthur in 1883, gives them control of the northern boundary of the river. A federal solicitor declared in 1999 during a water rights case that the tribal boundary was actually at the high water mark, giving the tribe would have no claim to the river at normal levels. Friction is building as the Park Service prepares to complete its long-awaited Colorado River Management Plan, which will regulate the number of people on river trips passing through the Grand Canyon. Original Story |
| November is American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month 10/06/2005 American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month originated in 1915 when the president of the Congress of American Indian Associations issued a proclamation declaring the second Saturday in May of each year as American Indian Day. In 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed a joint congressional resolution designating November 1990 as National American Indian Heritage Month. Similar proclamations have been issued every year since 1994. Original Story |
| Coalbed Methane Development Proposed on Northern Cheyenne Reservation 09/14/2005 The Association for the Advancement of Indigenous Resources says that coalbed methane development should be considered on the Northern Cheyenne reservation. The organization was recently formed to educate tribal members about coalbed methane, according to Terry Beartusk, the organization's director. There is money to be made with development that is responsible, reasonable and sensitive to the concerns of tribal members, Beartusk said. Coalbed methane development has expanded in the Wyoming portion of the Powder River Basin and has been the focus of intense scrutiny in southeastern Montana in recent years. The group is surveying locals about their concerns with coalbed methane and plans on hosting feasts in each district on the reservation to provide information. In particular, the group plans to address concerns about air quality, water quality, royalties and possible damage to surface lands. Original Story |
| EPA to Help States Reduce Fine Particle Air Pollution 09/14/2005 As part of the nationwide effort to improve air quality, the Environmental Protection Agency is proposing the steps state, local and tribal governments can take to reduce fine particle pollution in areas that do not meet EPA's health-based standards. A proposed rule describes the planning framework and requirements for state, local and tribal governments to consider when developing their plan to reduce air pollution to meet the standards. The EPA issued the fine particle standards in 1997 and all areas must meet the standards by 2010. The agency estimates that meeting these standards will prevent at least 15,000 premature deaths, 75,000 cases of chronic bronchitis, 10,000 hospital admissions for respiratory and cardiovascular disease, hundreds of thousands of cases of asthma, and 3.1 million lost-work days. Original Story |
| Montana: Environmental Group, Development Firm Strike Deal on Coalbed Methane 09/14/2005 An environmental group and energy development firm have reached an agreement to let coalbed methane production in a southeast Montana project continue, with restrictions on land disturbance and water disposal. The agreement between the Northern Plains Resource Council and Fidelity Energy and Production Co. affects an order U.S. Magistrate Richard Anderson issued earlier that halted the Tongue River-Badger Hills Project near Decker pending further environmental study. A decision by Anderson in a related study to allow federal leases in a portion of southern Montana on an interim basis is being appealed by both the environmental group and the Northern Cheyenne. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is set to hear arguments in the matter Thursday in Seattle. Original Story |
| Utah: Nuclear Waste Storage Plan on Reservation Meets Opposition 09/14/2005 The plan to store nuclear waste on the Goshute Indian Reservation, recently signed off on by Nuclear Regulatory Commission, met opposition from leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The church who broke their eight-year silence on the plan and voiced their disagreement. Opponents of the waste plan vow to stop a group of utilities called Private Fuel Storage LLC from leasing land on the tribal lands, which are about 45 miles southwest of Salt Lake City. The facility will store up to 44,000 tons of used reactor fuel. Original Story |
| Denver World Oil Conference November 9-10, 2005 08/29/2005 World oil production is expected to peak and then start to decline, perhaps in the next decade. This conference, entitled "Beyond Oil: Potential Responses to Peak Oil Impacts," will discuss the impacts of a peak in world oil production. Since oil provides nearly 40% of world energy, peak oil will be a significant turning point in human history, with far-reaching consequences. The conference will present ways in which citizens, corporations, cities, and states can take intelligent actions to prepare for more expensive petroleum and to mitigate the negative impacts of peak oil. Presentations will include alternative fuels status and issues, an update from car manufacturers, and an exploration of policy options, especially at the municipal level. Original Story |
| Comment Period Extended for Environmental Justice Strategic Plan 08/11/2005 The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency is developing an Environmental Justice Strategic Plan to integrate its environmental justice efforts more fully into Agency programs and operations. On June 22, 2005, the Office of Environmental Justice issued a Federal Register Notice seeking public comment on the draft Framework for Integrating Environmental Justice and Environmental Justice Strategic Plan Outline. On July 28, 2005, EPA issued a Supplemental Notice in the Federal Register reopening the public comment period until August 15, 2005 to provide the public more time to comment. Original Story |
| NEW TOOL: Calculate the Benefits of Switching Your Fleet to Hybrid Vehicles 08/04/2005 Fleet managers can use a new, free software tool to help them calculate the environmental and financial benefits of switching to hybrid vehicles. The Hybrid Electric Vehicle Fleet Cost and Benefits Calculator Tool was developed by the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the Center for a New American Dream, and the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy. The software computes potential savings by taking into account purchase price, fuel costs, repair and maintenance costs, resale value, and applicable tax incentives. The tool was developed for use by both business fleet managers and those in federal, state, local and tribal governments who are interested in reducing fuel costs and improving air quality. Original Story |
| Virgil Masayesva Native American Environmental Education Scholarship Fund Established 08/04/2005 A scholarship fund has been created at Northern Arizona University in memory of Virgil Masayesva and his work to promote Native American environmental education and protection issues. The fund will support qualified Native American students who are pursuing environmental careers and others who are working toward careers related to environmental protection of Indian Country. Masayesva was co-founder and director of the Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals (ITEP) at Northern Arizona University. Original Story |
| States Funded to Weatherize Low Income Housing 07/19/2005 The U. S. Department of Energy has awarded $92.5 million to 19 states to improve the energy efficiency of low-income family homes. Plugging air leaks, improving insulation and tuning air conditioning and heating systems are some of the improvements that will be made in order to reduce energy waste and lower energy bills. Approximately 92,300 homes will be upgraded with the money. It is estimated that weatherization can reduce an average homes energy costs by $237 a year. The program is administered by states, tribes and 970 local agencies. Every state, the District of Columbia, the Navajo Nation and the Inter-Tribal Council of Arizona will receive weatherization grants this year. Original Story |
| New Resource on Mercury Switch Recycling 07/15/2005 Tribes have the opportunity to develop a sustainable industry that also benefits the environment by recovering mercury switches in junk vehicles. A new resource provides recommendations on how to recycle mercury components in thermostats and motor vehicles. Illinois EPA prepared the report in response to Public Act 93-0964. You can find this resource in the tribal portal Project Resources. It is also available in the link below. Original Story |
| BIA school is LEED certified 07/11/2005 Baca Dlo'ay azhi Community School, on the Navajo Nation reservation in Prewitt, New Mexico, was recently LEED-certified by the U.S. Green Building Council. The 78,900 ft2 (7,330 m2) building, which employs Native American cultural concepts in its green design, serves students in kindergarten through grade six. The school received LEED certification for a number of innovations, including daylighting, low-emissivity windows, shading, air filtration, materials with recycled content, an efficient mechanical system, and a sophisticated energy-management system. The new school is expected to use 20% less energy and 30% less water than a traditionally-built school. (Source: U.S. Green Building Council.) Original Story |
| Indigenous Leaders Sought for Buffett Award 07/07/2005 Ecotrust is requesting nominations for the Buffett Award for Indigenous Leadership. Funded by the Peter and Howard Buffett families, the award recognizes outstanding individuals in the field of conservation and community development. Individuals are eligible if they are First Nation or tribal members, over 35 years of age, and work or have worked with an indigenous organization or community within the Pacific salmon territory of North America. A $25K cash award will be presented and four honorees will receive a $2.5K cash award. Nominations are due 9/31/05. Original Story |
| Navajos Power Residences with Sun and Wind 07/05/2005 (Salt Lake Tribune) In New Mexico, remote hogan's are being equipped with renewable energy systems to supply families and elderly tribe members with power. Costs for running power lines to the homes would have been prohibitive. Sacred Power, an Indian owned utility, partnered with the communities of Torreon-Star Lake and Ojo Encino to build and install the systems. The systems also come with energy-efficient refrigerators and light bulbs and the company is providing on-going maintenance of the systems for two years and training residents to conserve energy. Original Story |
| Tribal Composting Nourishes Land and Tradition 06/30/2005 The newest issue of U.S. EPA's Tribal Waste Journal focuses on a variety of innovative composting approaches, including: backyard, fish and wood waste, food waste and biosolids, vermicomposting in schools, green waste composting in an arid climate, mixed solid waste composting in Alaska, and cultural gardens and green roofs. It features the stories and experiences of the: Blackfeet Tribe of Montana, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, Fond du Lac Reservation, Haines Sanitation, Inc., Ho-Chunk Nation, Kake Tribal Corporation, Mashantucket Pequot Tribe, Oneida Tribe of Wisonsin, Redwood Valley Rancheria, and Slat River Pima Maricopa Indian Community in Arizona. As always, this issue also contain an extensive list of useful resources, tribal, village, and state contacts; and the Kids Page. Free copies are available from the National Service Center for Environmental Publications (NSCEP)--phone: 800/490-9198; e-mail: ncepimal@one.net. Document #: (EPA530-N-05-001). It is also available online (see headline link). Original Story |
| Montana Tribes Restore River 06/29/2005 The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes in Northwestern Montana are midway in a multi-year plan to restore 22 miles of the Jocko River. By planting bushes and trees, creating new flood plains, and redirecting the river into historical beds, the project hopes to provide better habitat for bull trout and improve water quality. Original Story |
| Intertribal Agriculture Council Publishes Newsletter 06/24/2005 The Intertribal Agriculture Council publishes a quarterly newsletter (on-line and hard copy) with reports from each region about agriculturally related success stories. The spring 2005 issue includes information about the Wampanoag Aquinnah Shellfish Hatchery, the Indian Nations Conservation Alliance, and a 4-H youth program in Texas to plant, grow and eventually sell Christmas trees. Site visitors can sign up to receive notification when new newsletters are posted. Original Story |
| Renewable Energy Conference Earlybird Date Approaches 06/24/2005 Registration for the South West Renewable Energy Conference (August 1-2, 2005 in Santa Fe, New Mexico) at the earlybird rate ends July 1. On-line registration is available. Key sponsors include: Northern Arizona University, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, PNM Utility, Grand Canyon Trust, Sandia National Laboratories, Western Resource Advocates and others. The Conference Program will present a wide range of information about issues regarding the development of wind, solar, biomass, geothermal and other forms of renewable energy on tribal, federal, state and private lands. Original Story |
| Tribes Receive Renewable Energy Grants (DOE) 06/17/2005 The U. S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced that it is making nearly $2.5 million available to 18 Native American tribes to advance the use of renewable energy and energy efficient technologies on tribal lands. A variety of wind, solar, biomass, geothermal and energy planning projects were funded. A complete list of projects is available with the original story. The National Renewable Energy Lab in Golden, Colorado will administer the grants. Original Story |
| Tribal Golf Courses Go Green 06/13/2005 (Indian Country Today) As tribal governments become more involved in recreation industries like casinos, they are also seeking to offer their patrons a challenging golf experience that is aesthetically and environmentally pleasing. Original Story |
| World Wilderness Conference Highlights Native Lands Issues 06/07/2005 The 8th World Wilderness Congress (WWC) will be held September 30 - October 6, 2005 at the Egan Convention Center in Anchorage, Alaska. The conference will bring together indigenous groups from the United States, Canada, Central and South America, Asia and Africa with the goal of forming an international Native Lands and Wilderness Council. Participating groups will present case studies of indigenous conservation initiatives, and groups that have developed or are developing conservation projects on their traditional wild areas will share their experiences. The Conference is sponsored by the WILD Foundation. Original Story |
| $7.5 Million Available in Clean School Bus Grants (EPA) 06/01/2005 The EPA has announced an availability of funds and is soliciting applications from school districts, including federally recognized Indian tribes which operate schools, for retrofit and/or replacement projects that reduce pollution from school buses. This is through the use of EPA verified or certified and/or California Air Resources Board verified pollution reduction technologies. The closing date for receipt of Applications is July 22, 2005. Original Story |
| Indigenous Leadership Awards 06/01/2005 Ecotrust requests nominations for the Buffett Award for Indigenous Leadership. This award, funded by the Peter and Howard Buffett families, recognizes outstanding individuals in the field of conservation and community development within the Pacific salmon territory of North America. One $25K cash award will be presented to an individual whose activities demonstrate leadership to improve the social, economic, political, and environmental conditions in his or her homelands. Four honorees will receive a $2.5K cash award. Responses due 9/31/05. Original Story |
