In the face of mounting climate challenges, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes in Montana are taking a unique approach, blending traditional ecological knowledge with Western science. Mike Durglo Jr., the tribes' climate change coordinator, has been at the forefront of this effort for nearly two decades. His dedication to preparing his community for a warming world is evident in the comprehensive climate action plan he crafted, one of the first of its kind among Native American tribes. This plan, which has been shared with other tribes across the West, emphasizes a holistic approach to climate resilience, considering everything from people to forestry to water to air to wildlife.
Durglo's work is particularly notable given the current political climate in the United States. The federal government's reluctance to address climate change has led to a void that states, cities, and regions are trying to fill. However, tribes, like the Confederated Salish and Kootenai, can move forward with climate action even when state efforts stall and federal funding is cut. Despite the Trump administration's halt of federal funding for renewable energy projects, the tribes received a $20 million grant from the Biden-era Solar for All program, showcasing their ability to adapt and continue their climate work.
One of the key aspects of the tribes' plan is the integration of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) into every facet of the climate strategy. This knowledge, passed down through generations, provides valuable insights into the natural world and how to care for it. Durglo recognizes that Indigenous people have been caring for the environment long before the term 'climate change' existed, and he emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living things.
The plan outlines projects such as wind energy development, water conservation efforts, and ecosystem restoration to improve climate resilience. This year, the focus is on reducing wildfire risk and creating safe havens from smoky air for the reservation's 33,000 residents. Durglo's efforts to combat wildfire smoke include the installation of air quality sensors across the reservation, providing real-time data on air quality. He has also designated several buildings as 'clean air centers' to serve as safe havens during smoky periods.
Durglo's approach has been instrumental in helping other tribes across the West. He served as the chairman of the Environmental Protection Agency's Regional Tribal Operations Committee and led climate planning workshops for tribes in several states. The Blackfeet Nation, for instance, sought his assistance in creating their climate plan, drawing from his comprehensive approach and adapting it to their specific needs.
Despite the challenges posed by federal funding cuts, Durglo and other tribal leaders are committed to sharing their successful climate approaches as widely as possible. They recognize that knowledge, once learned, cannot be taken away, and they are determined to protect the environment for future generations. As Montana experiences a record-breaking warm spring with below-average snowpack, Durglo's efforts to build climate resilience and share knowledge become even more crucial in the face of an uncertain future.
