Kawerak’s Environmental Program has two exciting new projects rolling out to village communities, offering Tribes new opportunities to embrace healthy living.
In 2022, The Mackenzie Scott Foundation awarded $8 million to Kawerak in unrestricted funds. Among many other priorities to support, Kawerak’s Board of Directors identified food security and environmental health as areas of focus for our region. Generating ideas on how to reach these goals, the Board suggested that communities need places to safely store used oil, as well as increased availability of healthy food. The Environmental Program staff got to work on generating options to tackle these issues.
Newly-built greenhouse kit in Golovin.
They worked with Grizzly Building Supply in Nome to design a greenhouse kit suitable for shipping throughout the region. The kits come with all the necessary pieces to construct a 12’ x 20’ greenhouse. Several communities have already committed to operations and obtained their greenhouse kits, including Golovin, Savoonga and Unalakleet. The greenhouses will supplement other ongoing food sustainability efforts, including community gardens and subsistence and hunting activities.
Ideas for safe storage came in the shape of a connex van. Kawerak utilized carry forward funds combined with funding from the BIA and ANTHC to put together safe storage vans, a centralized and efficient disposal area for used oil and antifreeze. The vans are also equipped with funnels, PPE and other helpful supplies. A central location gives regional residents a way to dispose of these often-used chemicals safely and, ultimately, helps support safer, easier backhaul. All Bering Strait Region communities have the opportunity to request a safe storage van.
Labeling a used oil drum to place in the safe storage van in Elim.
One of the essential components of receiving a greenhouse and/or safe storage van includes identifying a local entity to resume responsibility for construction and maintenance through an MOA signed with Kawerak.
Environmental Program Director Anahma Shannon says they’re excited to send greenhouses and safe storage vans to participating communities in response to requests from community leadership. “Our hope is that these projects help protect the environment, while supporting strong, resilient communities,” she said.
We’re excited to support opportunities for Tribes and communities to take further steps toward food security and environmental health. If you are interested in supporting a greenhouse and/or safe storage van in your community, reach out to Kawerak’s Environmental Program to learn more: 907-443-4249 or email: ashannon@kawerak.org.
