Funding Resilience, Building Balance

Lark partnered with two Tribes in the Rocky Mountain region to develop a successful climate resilience grant proposal, securing approximately $1 million in funding. The proposal was grounded in approved tribal plans and prioritized previously identified projects that align with long-term planning goals. The project focused on enhancing adaptive capacity and resilience to climate change by improving water and forage resources for the Tribes’ expanding buffalo herd and livestock grazing on rangelands. The improvements implemented under the grant directly benefited more than 60 tribal members and their families who hold grazing permits. In addition, by increasing drought resilience and ensuring sustainable land management, the project supported continued agricultural productivity and strengthened the economic base for the reservation.

A Tribal Elder contributed traditional knowledge about land and agricultural resource uses for the project. This information was then used during the implementation phase to ensure that the project's methods were in line with the Tribes’ indigenous practices and wisdom, promoting sustainability and cultural relevance.

Additional Highlights