PRYOR, Oklahoma ~ The Cherokee Nation has been awarded a $1.3 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to assess and clean up multiple sites across the reservation. The funding, part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, aims to transform vacant and potentially contaminated properties into valuable community spaces.

The grant will fund 25 Phase I and 10 Phase II environmental site assessments, as well as the development of three cleanup plans and one reuse plan. Key focus areas include Skiatook, a 2.4-acre developed site in Bartlesville, the historic Citizen’s Bank building and former jail in Marble City, and a 15-acre undeveloped property near a former cold storage plant in Stilwell.

“This significant EPA grant will help the Cherokee Nation continue our commitment to being responsible stewards of our land while creating new opportunities for economic development within our communities,” said Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. “By assessing and cleaning up these sites, we’re not only protecting our environment but also laying the groundwork for future development that will benefit Cherokee families for generations to come.”

Deputy Chief Bryan Warner highlighted the project’s importance for community revitalization, noting that the investment supports the tribe’s mission to balance environmental protection with sustainable growth.

“This investment aligns perfectly with our mission to protect our natural resources while promoting sustainable economic growth across the Cherokee Nation Reservation,” Warner said.

Secretary of Natural Resources Christina Justice emphasized the critical role of environmental assessments in addressing potential contamination.

“Through careful assessment and planning, we can ensure these sites are safely and responsibly repurposed for the benefit of our communities,” Justice said. “This grant allows us to take a comprehensive approach to environmental protection and community development.”

Community engagement will be a key part of the project, ensuring tribal citizens have input in the assessment and planning processes.

The grant is part of the EPA’s Brownfields Program, which supports communities in revitalizing potentially contaminated sites. This initiative is backed by the $1.5 billion boost to the program through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.