Earlier this year, The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) signed an agreement establishing CNO Environmental Protection Service staff as federally credentialed inspectors for underground storage tanks (UST).
CNO is the first tribe to establish such a program within EPA Region 6, which includes Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Texas, and 66 Tribal Nations.
Through this new role, CNO staff will be able to conduct inspections of underground storage tanks, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and enhancing the nation’s ability to safeguard its land and communities. This program highlights the Choctaw Nation’s leadership and strengthens its ability to preserve its environmental heritage.
“This partnership is an affirmation of our sovereignty, strengthening the Choctaw Nation’s ability to protect our resources and facilities on the reservation for many generations to come,” said Choctaw Nation Chief Gary Batton. “With this agreement, we can increase the boots-on-the-ground effort to protect our resources, communities, and facilities, and is a great example of what our region can achieve when we all work together.”
This landmark collaboration between the Choctaw Nation and the EPA reflects the tribe’s commitment to preserving its environment and resources for future generations. Chief Batton emphasized that the Choctaw Nation’s Environmental Protection Service department exemplifies servant leadership, actively ensuring that the environment is protected and cared for in the long term.