A video crew from KAT Communications recently visited the Campo Band of the Kumeyaay Nation near San Diego,California to discuss environmental sustainability with tribal members, Campo Environmental Protection Agency (CEPA) staff, Elders and artisans.  Many years ago, the Tribe recognized the adverse environmental impact of overgrazing cattle and metro area pollution. Combining traditional knowledge with modern technology, an environmental protection program that includes creating and restoring riparian areas and planting seedlings throughout Tribal lands is now in place. One of the most successfully restored areas is home to deer, many species of ducks, cranes and other wetland species.  Tribal lands have also been leased for wind energy generation. A 25-turbine wind farm is currently in operation with plans for a larger farm to be created within a few years. These are only two of many projects the Tribe is implementing to restore environmental harmony.

Below, KAT videographer Matt Fern captures footage of Michael Connolly discussing plant habitat that are native to the area.  Connolly was instrumental in leading the efforts to restore natural habitat on the Campo Band of the Kumeyaay’s Reservation. He currently serves as an environmental consultant to the tribe.

KAT’s visit to the area is one of many trips KAT is making with representatives of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. The goal of the project is to collect photographs and video to be used as curriculum material demonstrating Tribal environmental sustainability.