Comanche Tribe of Oklahoma Receives $65,000 from EPA

Native News Network Staff in Native Briefs. Discussion »

DALLAS, TEXAS – Last Friday the Comanche Tribe of Oklahoma was awarded $65,000 from the Environmental Protection Agency to provide continued support for the tribe's water pollution control program.

Environmental Protection

The funds will be used to take samples to assess surface water quality on tribal lands, compile data which may show changes over time and determine if a more thorough watershed management program is needed. Sampling data will determine whether water quality standards are being met, note any changes in the quality or condition of the tribe's water, and provide planning tools to improve the function and health of stream ecosystems.

The Comanche Nation Environmental Programs work to eliminate hazardous materials that contaminate our soil, water and air of the Comanche Nation. The Tribe's jurisdiction in Oklahoma covers eight counties: Comanche, Cotton, Tillman, Kiowa, Caddo, Stephens, Jefferson & Grady.

Comanche Nation Water Resources Technicians perform routine spot and duration testing of water quality of the major lakes, rivers, streams and creeks within the jurisdictional boundaries of the Comanche Nation. Testing for various parameters, including pH, turbidity, nitrate-N, dissolved oxygen, temperature and conductivity.

Tribal members with drinking water wells may receive water testing services upon request, from the Tribe at no cost. Upon receipt of analysis a final written report is given to tribal member detailing all findings. If there are any deficiencies discovered, the Tribe works to resolve them in appropriate fashion.

The Tribe believes safe drinking water is a primary environmental health concern and works to ensure each tribal family is afforded quality water.

posted December 27, 2012 6:20 am est