The North Fork Rancheria Environmental Protection Department envisions a safe and sustainable environment for tribal members to dwell, work, recreate, and subsist on. Cultural resources, air, water, soil, fish, plants, and wildlife are all important elements of our environment and will be protected and preserved for future generations. In addition, the North Fork Rancheria Environmental Protection Department shares a vision with the tribal community to foster a greater appreciation and understanding for cultural resources and tribal heritage amongst Indians and non-Indians alike. The tribal community is integral part of departmental activities, playing an instrumental role in educating the general public about the value of Mono culture. We will work as partners with individuals, organizations, tribes, governments, and businesses to fulfill our organization’s mission.

Mission Statement:

The North Fork Mono Rancheria Environmental Protection Department’s mission is to preserve and protect cultural resources and the environment for the tribe, community, and future generations through pollution prevention, restoration, community education and partnerships.

History:

The NFR Environmental Protection Department was established in 1999 with money awarded by the Environmental Protection Agency’s General Assistance Program (GAP). The tribe is currently in the seventh year of EPA GAP funding. According to GAP guidelines, the award assists the tribe in “building the basic structure of an environmental program.” Currently, the EPD is building the capacity to provide needed services to the tribal community, and also attain self-sufficiency.

The values, mission, and vision of the Environmental Protection Department is community driven. In January of 2005, our department created an Environmental Committee, comprised of tribal members from the North Fork Rancheria. The committee meets on a monthly basis to make recommendations, which are carried to the Tribal Council.