News Releases from Region 06

EPA Grant Will Help Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Support Environmental Education

DALLAS – (Dec. 8, 2016) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Gulf of Mexico Program recently announced the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma received a $29,947 cooperative agreement to promote environmental education to a variety of age groups.

The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, which lies within the Gulf of Mexico drainage basin, will develop a hands-on program of educational activities and recycling support to school children, elder and civic groups in the areas surrounding Wister, McAlester, Sardis, Beaver's Bend, and Hugo Lakes in southeastern Oklahoma. The programs will emphasize the critical role of individuals in reducing litter, protecting and conserving local waters, and making a positive impact on climate change. This project will support community climate resiliency by addressing local environmental issues and reducing vulnerability through education of citizens, empowering them to recycle instead of dumping litter.

“The Choctaw Nation is excited to be able to work with EPA to teach tribal members and area elementary and high school students about the impact of litter on waterways, water conservation measures and recycling. We hope to be able to help change the way our communities think about their environment and make a significant improvement for generations to come,” said Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Director of Environmental Sustainability Tracy Horst.

“We’re honored to be partnering with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma to raise awareness about community climate resilience. Particularly excited to be working with folks of all ages to gain perspectives from all segments of this group of stakeholders,” said Ben Scaggs, Director, EPA-Gulf of Mexico Program.

This cooperative agreement will further the strategic goals and objectives of Gulf of Mexico Program and lead to a healthy and prosperous ecosystem.

Learn more about the EPA Gulf of Mexico Program: /gulfofmexico

Learn more about EPA’s work with tribes: /tribal/region-6-tribal-program

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