In partnership with Louisiana Dept of Wildlife & Fisheries and the International Crane Foundation, the Tribe manages crop lands that provide ideal nesting conditions for whooping cranes (Grus americana). This critical species faces population decline due to changing climate conditions and loss of coastal lands from erosion and shifts from rural lands to urban development. By monitoring tribal crop lands to facilitate proper field flooding procedures and maintenance of invasive species causes destruction, the Tribe can contribute to the protection of this species.

To preserve the Tribe’s history of culturally significant native plants, we developed a seed bank on the Reservation. In partnership with the Tribe’s Natural Resource Dept., we collect, log, and store a variety of valuable seeds. Our very first documented seed to join the seed bank is mountain mint (Skanfoto - as pictured above), an aromatic plant used for spiritual practices. We have also developed a documented list of culturally significant plants detailing their common and Koasati names along with their traditional uses. Both the seed bank and plant list is available for tribal member use upon request.

Native rivercane species (Arundinaria tecta/gigantea) have been used for generation by Native Americans for basket weaving and tools. Today, only 2% of natural rivercane habitats remain. This cultural resource was threatening the loss of a historical traditional practice and something had to be done. The Tribe agreed it was time to begin developing a Rivercane Restoration Site, where the land can be managed to sustain a healthy population of cane for tribal use. Proper harvesting techniques, land management, and rivercane ecology is being reintroduced to tribal members today. If you’re interested in helping us restore this valuable resource, click the button below!