Klamath Tribes Hosts with Forest Officials

Native News Network Staff in Native Currents. Discussion »

CHILOQUIN, OREGON - In an effort to maintain a government to government spirit of cooperation, Klamath Tribes' Chairman Gary Frost, Vice Chairman, Don Gentry, Councilman Bert Lawvor Sr., Councilman Chuck Kimbol Sr., and Councilman Jeff Mitchell, along with several other tribal staff and officials including Forest Service Officials, met in Chiloquin, Oregon, to welcome Regional Forester Kent Connaughton and Deputy Regional Forester Nora Rasure.

Important Discussions in Chiloquin

The meeting's objective was to share and discuss current relationship, priorities, programs, accomplishments and pressing issues. And to highlight and discuss new opportunities to work together that will build upon our positive partnership and government to government relationship.

The meeting began with greetings and introductions, a welcome song by the Klamath Tribes, and an exchange of gifts by both parties as is customary. Both Connaughton and Rasure received hand-made tribal necklaces by Culture and Heritage Director, Perry Chocktoot, and Klamath Tribal Natural Resource Employee, Randy Henry was honored with a gift from the Forest Service for his work and dedication on co-projects with the Winema/Fremont.

The meeting flowed smoothly into the afternoon and included important discussions and PowerPoint's on; The Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement and Hydro Agreements, Culture and Heritage Program Overview, Natural Resource Program update, Memorandum of Agreement Overview, Master Participation and Stewardship Agreements, update on Forest Service Sacred Sites Initiative and Tribal Youth Education and Employment Initiative.

The meeting ended with a cultural potluck which included lilhunks (deer meat) and ?iwam (huckleberries) along with other salads, meats, and desserts, as it is traditional to both welcome and feed visitors coming to tribal lands in a good way.

posted February 17, 2012 6:30 am est