OERM/Environmental Programs

Wetlands Protection

The USET Wetlands Program provides technical assistance and trainings for USET member Tribal Nations through regional training seminars, Wetland Program Plan writing webinars, and pilot research partnerships. Each training is structured to the enhance capacity for USET member Tribal Nations to fulfill wetland programmatic goals, uphold Tribal Sovereignty, and provide frameworks for co-management with federal and state programs.

Wetland ecosystems play a critical role in surface water purification, sediment and flood water retention, climate resiliency, carbon sequestration, biological diversity, and traditional sustenance activities for Tribal citizens. In order to preserve these vital functions, USET technical trainings provide information and resources on how to conduct wetland mapping, monitoring and assessment, regulatory activities, restoration and protection, and water quality standards to protect and restore wetlands on Tribal Nation homelands.

For any questions regarding the USET Wetlands Program, or to be included in the email list for news and upcoming events, please contact Jerry Pardilla.

Tribal-FERST

The Tribal-Focused Environmental Risk and Sustainability Tool (Tribal-FERST) is a web-based information and GIS mapping tool designed to empower Tribal Nations to assess environmental exposures and health risks to their citizens and to develop sustainable and culturally appropriate solutions. Using this web-based assessment and decision support tool, Tribal Nations may employ a holistic approach to address environmental concerns and contribute to sustainable solutions for the future.

Tribal relevant tools which have security protocols are critical to prioritize environmental issues, evaluate exposure pathways, and conduct comprehensive impact assessments – all of which are important in decisions and response actions to improve public health and the environment of Tribal communities.

Tribal-FERST is a web-based tool that is adapted from an EPA Community-FERST platform, in collaboration the BIA and EPA.

EPA RELEASES TOOLS FOR THE 3TS TOOLKIT

The US Environmental Protection Agency has released three tools for the 3Ts toolkit on Reducing Lead Levels in Drinking Water in Schools and Child Care Facilities.

Completed Wetland Program Plans from USET Tribal Nations

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