GRIC Celebrates Earth Day, hosted by DEQ

Joseph Morales

GRIN Intern

Gila River Indian Community celebrated Earth Day with an event hosted by the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) in District 3 on April 19.

Many in the Community gathered for the celebration, which honored and educated attendees. Those in attendance had the chance to listen to Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis, who opened the event by emphasizing the importance of celebrating the day.

Gov. Lewis and District 1 Council Rep. Joey Whitman received the Voluntary Environmental Stewardship Program (VESP) award on behalf of the Community, for the installation of solar panels over GRIC canals, presented by Arizona Department of Environmental Quality’s CEO Karen Peters.

VESP recognizes and awards incentives to Arizona businesses and other organizations with a good history of environmental compliance. These organizations strive to go beyond what is legally required to protect public health and the environment.

GRIC, in collaboration with the Army Corps of Engineers and the Bureau of Reclamation, undertook a significant project to install solar panels over canals in the Community.

This initiative was aimed at conserving eight-million-acre feet of water from evaporation and generating renewable energy, showcasing the Community’s commitment to environmental conservation.

Those who gathered were invited to explore and interact with more than 50 informational booths, including the National Park Service (NPS), showcasing their work and offerings.

“It is important to be here celebrating such an important day. It is important to reach out to tribal communities and connect with our lands,” said Raeshaun Ramon, Tohono O’odham. Ramon is the Community Engagement and Tribal Support for NPS - Saguaro National Park.

GRIC’s Tribal Education Department was also on site to reach out to the youth. Student Advisor for Tribal Student Services, Anthony Tarin, said, “This event is important for the Earth but also for the youth. Education is important for our youth so we want them to look into their future and what they want.”

Many departments and programs participated in the event, sharing a wealth of information that was of great importance to the Community and the land. Topics ranged from environmental conservation to renewable energy, and all of them had a significant impact on the Community. This event was a huge success, with many attendees staying until the very end, enjoying the music and food that was available.