Choctaw Nation Developing New Environmental Codes

DURANT, Okla. – The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) is developing a new set of environmental codes thanks in part to a two-year grant. The new codes will protect and impact the land and people living on the Choctaw Nation Reserve for years to come.

The grant from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Administration for Native Americans was received in October 2021 by the Choctaw Nation to introduce its own set of environmental protection codes. Currently, the Choctaw Nation relies on federal, state or local guidelines that may apply.

The Office of Environmental Protection Services, under CNO’s Department of Risk Management, will oversee the $200,000 grant. Curtis Martin, CNO Environmental Specialist, Policy and Permits, has been assigned to lead the project. The grant added one new staff member, Environmental Coordinator Shawnna Bivings, to help develop the codes. She will also educate communities on how to increase environmental awareness and decrease waste and pollution within the reservation.

Martin said, “We’re developing a set of codes to protect our environment and natural resources. The codes will allow us to further develop our environmental programs, helping to exercise and expand CNO’s sovereignty.”

Bivings added, “These Codes will help Choctaw Nation assert jurisdiction within our reservation. By developing and enforcing them we will ensure environmental stewardship and preserve our land for future generations.”

A minimum of 12 codes are expected, covering solid waste control and illegal dumping to maintaining air and water quality. As data is being gathered, codes are written and reviewed by CNO’s Legal Department, each code when ready will be presented to the Tribal Council for consideration and passage.

If you have questions, please contact Choctaw Nation Environmental Protection Services at [email protected].