EPA Funded Projects

The Environmental Program is almost entirely funded by EPA’s GAP (General Assistance Program) for Native American tribes to develop capacity within their programs. This allows us to conduct baseline studies on water quality & air quality, helping us determine if additional testing/mitigation is needed to protect the health of tribal lands and people. This funding has helped the Environmental Program develop the now thriving and growing Recycling Program along with other solid waste programs valuable to the community. See more about these programs below.

  • Recycling Program

    We offer recycling pickup services for tribal offices for cardboard, paper, plastic, and aluminum cans. We are constantly seeking funding to expand this program. A residential drop-off trailer is currently in the works, so stay tuned!

  • Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day

    We provide an annual drop-off service for tribal members and staff to properly dispose of used tires, motor oil, car batteries, and paint at no cost. As more disposal services become available, we will accept additional items.

  • E-Waste Collection Days

    We offer E-Waste Collection drop-offs 3 times a year in coordination with CACRC to collect old printers, TVs, computers & computer accessories, etc. by diverting electronics from landfills. This is a free service for tribal members and staff.

  • Textile Recycling

    In partnership with Louisiana Adult & Teen Challenge, the Tribe has placed a donation bin near the Coushatta Cultural & Heritage Building in Elton. Donating used clothing, bedding, and towels helps circulate clothing back into stores instead of landfills.

  • Composting Program

    Participating tribal offices collect food waste such as eggshells, coffee grounds, & fruit/vegetable scraps. This waste is placed in an outdoor composting bin that was constructed by our team. Our compost is turned for aeration, moistened with water regularly, and balanced with a perfect C:N ratio to keep it rich.

  • Litter Abatement

    Our team discourages litter & illegal dumping by passing a tribal enforced ordinance to penalize offenders & keep the reservation beautiful. We also partner with tribal leadership to plan community roadside cleanup events at least once a year. Our program would love to branch out into beautification projects by planting native plants around the reservation as well.

  • Youth Education

    Our team has successfully developed an annual summer camp to encourage the participation and knowledge of tribal youth involving environmental and natural resource topics. We also partner with LIS (Little Indian School) located on the reservation to provide environmental lessons to tribal youth ages 4-6.

  • Environmental Testing

    Our environmental team monitors the bayous and water bodies located on and near the reservation to ensure safe levels of pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature, conductivity, and overall turbidity are maintained. Our team also monitors tribal offices for radon detection. Please reach out to us to request any other specific testing you’d like to have done.