Rio Tinto highlights cultural heritage efforts during Tehachapi development meeting
A Rio Tinto executive discussed the company’s cultural heritage management plan and restoration projects during a Greater Tehachapi Economic Development Council meeting
Mary Beth Garrison, senior adviser of communities and communications for Rio Tinto U.S. Borax, discussed the company’s cultural heritage management efforts during a May 6 meeting of the Greater Tehachapi Economic Development Council, according to the Tehachapi News. Garrison said the company expanded its cultural heritage policies after the 2020 destruction of ancient Aboriginal rock shelters at Juukan Gorge in Australia during a mine expansion project.
According to the Tehachapi News, Garrison said Rio Tinto later implemented cultural heritage management plans at its mining operations, including in Boron, California. She said surveys conducted in 2017 and 2022 documented evidence of Indigenous travel through the area, including a grinding stone later given to the Native American Heritage League in Sacramento. Garrison also highlighted restoration work on the company’s historic Twenty Mule Team display and said visitor numbers increased after the project was completed.
- 1.Patrick Johnston. Tehachapi News, .
Help us keep the fire burning, make a donation to Buffalo’s Fire
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we exist to illuminate tribal government for everyone who cares about transparency in Native issues. Our work bridges the gap left by tribal-controlled media and non-Native, extractive journalism, providing the insights necessary for truly informed decision-making and a better quality of life. Because the consequences of restricted press freedom affect our communities every day, our trauma-informed reporting is rooted in a deep, firsthand expertise.
Every gift helps keep the fire burning. A monthly contribution makes the biggest impact. Cancel anytime.