U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Deb Haaland reaffirmed the Biden administration’s commitment to investing and protecting Tribal communities during a recent visit to South Dakota, according to a DOI release.
Speaking in Rapid City, Haaland shared how Indigenous communities are being impacted by climate change.
“As the effects of climate change continue to intensify, Indigenous communities are facing unique challenges that pose existential threats to Tribal economies, infrastructure, livelihoods, and health,” Haaland said in the release. “With new resources to invest in Tribal communities, we are committed to ensuring that Tribal leaders have a seat at the table and can work directly with federal officials to safeguard their communities.”
Haaland and Assistant Secretary - Indian Affairs Bryan Newland discussed with Tribal leaders the administration’s commitment to treaty obligations. They also highlighted how the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is investing in Tribal communities including $466 million for Tribal infrastructure projects and climate resiliency initiatives.
“The infrastructure law makes historic investments in bolstering community resilience, protecting natural areas, and strengthening our response to the effects of climate change,” Haaland said. “This is the largest investment in physical and natural systems in American history, and a much-needed down payment to ensure our grandchildren and great-grandchildren get to enjoy the same outdoor experiences we all have today.”
The infrastructure law provides for a five-year reauthorization of the Federal Lands Transportation Program. The program invests in upgrading National Park Service roads, bridges, trails, and transit systems. The law also invests in projects to help fund bridge replacements and resiliency, repair ferry boats and terminal facilities, and maintain wildlife crossings that keep people and surrounding wildlife safe.
Haaland also toured the D.C. Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery and met with local landowners who are participants in the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service program offers financial and technical assistance to interested landowners. In the past year, the program completed 2,085 projects, which restored and enhanced 241,753 upland acres, 16,879 wetland acres, 242 river miles, and 57 fish passage structures.
