Mendocino County Tribal Projects Clean-Up Event

Our most recent collaboration involved three Tribal Projects (Redwood Valley Rancheria, Sherwood Valley Band, and Hopland Band), the Mendocino Public Health Department, and our EPA department for a Clean-Up event at Lake Mendocino, CA, on April 27, 2024. The purpose of this clean-up day was to maintain the cleanliness of our lake beaches by removing commercial tobacco litter. Following years of drought, our community had hoped for the return of water, and in gratitude, we volunteered to preserve the water's purity from toxins and chemicals for the benefit of wildlife, aquatic life, flora, and our community.

During our recent clean-up operation, our dedicated crew tirelessly gathered a staggering volume of litter, including cigarette butts, general trash, remnants of marijuana products, and recyclable materials. The sheer amount of waste highlights the pressing need for environmental consciousness and responsible waste management practices in our community.

As we reflect on our successful clean-up initiative, we are inspired to continue our efforts in the future. Planning more clean-up events is crucial to maintaining the cleanliness and beauty of our surroundings. We are immensely grateful to all the members of our Tribal community who actively participated in this endeavor, demonstrating their commitment to preserving our environment.

One of the most significant aspects of our clean-up activities is the opportunity to educate and instill values in the younger generation. By involving our youth in these initiatives, we are nurturing a sense of responsibility and respect for the land. We are shaping them to become the future custodians of Mother Earth, imparting the knowledge and skills necessary to safeguard our planet for generations to come.