Tribal Engagement

We recognize people have existed in relationship with the oak landscape in the East Cascades since time immemorial and we have much to learn from the lifeways that shaped the land we love. Investing in tribal partnerships is one way we can facilitate healing of land and people, building trust between tribal and non-tribal communities, and bringing to bear indigenous traditional ecological knowledge and western science to solve challenging new problems.

With input from elders and tribal staff, ECOP built a strategic plan that celebrates original stewardship and catalyzes solutions that not only protect or enhance culturally important resources but also work to catalyze indigenous participation and leadership. Through restoration, monitoring, assessment, and land protection projects with Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, Yakama Nation, Lomakatsi Restoration Project, and the stewards of multi-tribal ceremonial sites in our region, ECOP continues to look for ways to learn, adapt, and grow in relationship with tribal communities.