The Tolowa Dee-ni Nation and the U.S Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) signed an historic ceremonial document for a partnership event, December 18 that will provide the Nation with $800,000 toward extensive improvements to a 50 year old wastewater plant serving a portion of the Native population, in Smith River.
The Nation’s Tribal Council met with USACE and discussed the Wastewater system planned as well as discussing Tolowa Dee-ni culture, history and environmental practices.
Tribal Council Chairperson Jeri Lynn Thompson stated, “This Agreement is only the first step in securing overall funding for a project that will ultimately connect 150-plus low income homes to a quality regional water system by replacing the existing outdated, lagoon-based wastewater system.”
Lt. Colonel Timothy Shebesta of USACE expressed pride to partner with the Tolowa Dee-ni Nation on a project, in Shebesta’s words, “…will greatly improve the living conditions of those who call this beautiful part of California home.”
The Nation plans to replace wastewater infrastructure at the Mouth of the Smith River formerly known as the Ship Ashore Mobile Home Park, which was purchased by the Nation in 2016.
The entire cost of the wastewater treatment Plant is approximately $25 million. Ultimately, USACE will fund 75 percent of this project. The State is slated to pick up the $6-$7 million to complete the project.