Coquille Tribe release – NORTH BEND – The Coquille Indian Tribe has been selected as a 2023 FSC-US Leadership Award winner by the Forest Stewardship Council. Worldwide, the Forest Stewardship Council is the most trusted forest certification system. It uses these awards to “recognize uncommon excellence that advances responsible forest management and forest conservation.” Part of their effort is to promote environmentally sound, socially beneficial, and economically prosperous management of forests. Tribal Chair Brenda Meade calls the award an amazing accomplishment and one that confirms lessons passed down through generations, highlighting the Tribe’s holistic approach to management. “Taking care of our forestlands, managing for all things, not just a pick and choose approach, making sure these lands are well-cared for now and into the future and focusing on sustainability, is something that has been passed down from generation to generation,” she said. “Seeing that this tradition has not only carried over to our modern care of natural resources but is also being noted by others as being of a high standard is a credit to our entire Tribe.” The Coquille Tribe was specifically highlighted in this award for “outstanding sustainable forest management and conservation work, leading unique legal accomplishments in tribal trust forestland, fish and wildlife management, and innovative product marketing.” Robin Harkins, Natural Resources Director for the Coquille Tribe, noted the team effort that resulted in earning this award. “The Coquille Indian Tribe takes pride in being a leader of innovative, responsible, and sustainable stewardship of the forestlands they have called home since time immemorial,” she said. “It is an honor to receive this award recognizing the commitment of our Tribal Council, Tribal members, and staff, to manage our land for multiple economic and cultural resource values benefiting the Tribe and the communities in which we live.”
