- Details
- By Native News Online Staff
On December 27th the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s (SRMT) Environment Division’s Environmental Response Team (ERT) received a new custom-built 2023 Ford Transit response vehicle.
The new vehicle will replace the current US Air Force, 1982 International Harvester heavy-duty bus. The purchase (estimated cost of $172,000) was made possible through funds set aside by the Tribal Volkswagen Settlement Agreement.
Make A Donation Here
“This will truly elevate the professionalism and efficiencies of the SRMT Environment Response Team,” Tribal Chief Beverly Cook said.
The van will be utilized to transport vital supplies quickly and efficiently during emergency environmental situations. It comes loaded with plenty of storage space, a computer work area and an awning for protection from weather elements as well as other small amenities. Emergency lighting surrounds the vehicle, allowing to alert community members that an emergency situation is taking place and to avoid the area
where the vehicle is being used for the safety of themselves, as well as the ERT.
Storage cabinets line both sides of the bus to ensure safe keeping of all of the essential equipment needed by ERT. It’s modern style of white is embossed with the SRMT logo and large lettering that reads “Environment Division” on both sides of the bus.
“In the event of an emergency environmental response, the vehicle and it’s particular lighting should provide community members with a sense of calmness,” Tribal Chief Michael Conners said.
More Stories Like This
NCAI calls on Congress to Protect Indigenous Sacred Sites from MiningTIME Magazine Names Gila River Indian Community Leader to Its "2024 Time100 Climate” List
Navajo President Buu Nygren Says Remediation Fund, Cleanup of Sites is Solution to Contamination
Record Numbers of Steelhead Return to the Deschutes River, Heralding Progress in Long-term Fish Reintroduction Effort
National Park Service Issues Landmark Order for Tribal Consultations
Can we take a minute to talk about tribal sovereignty?
Sovereignty isn't just a concept – it's the foundation of Native nations' right to govern, protect our lands, and preserve our cultures. Every story we publish strengthens tribal sovereignty.
Unlike mainstream media, we center Indigenous voices and report directly from Native communities. When we cover land rights, water protection, or tribal governance, we're not just sharing news – we're documenting our living history and defending our future.
Our journalism is powered by readers, not shareholders. If you believe in the importance of Native-led media in protecting tribal sovereignty, consider supporting our work today.
Right now, your support goes twice as far. Thanks to a generous $35,000 matching fund, every dollar you give during December 2024 will be doubled to protect sovereignty and amplify Native voices.
No paywalls. No corporate owners. Just independent, Indigenous journalism.
