"Our tribe has long had cultural and spiritual ties to the Santa Ynez Valley. Our ancestors since time immemorial have lived, worked and relied on this land. We take great pride in being the first stewards of the land in the county later known as the birthplace of the modern environmental movement.

It’s also a great responsibility.

To that end, our tribal government in 1998 created the Santa Ynez Chumash Environmental Office. Its mission: to enhance and preserve the natural environment of the Chumash Reservation to provide a safe and healthy community for residents and visitors.

The Environmental Office is one of many divisions, such as our foundation and health clinic, that our tribe has established to provide government and community services.

The Environmental Office’s efforts include promoting sustainable economic opportunities, finding ways to use solar power and alternative fuels, reducing waste, and improving habitats and water quality."

Get the Story:
Richard Gomez: Garden provides roots for a better future (The Solvang Valley News 1/19)