Walker River Paiute Tribe loses $20 million climate grant after federal cuts
The Walker River Paiute Tribe in Nevada lost a $20 million federal grant meant to fund water, energy and housing projects after the Environmental Protection Agency terminated the award earlier this year, according to Nevada Current.
The EPA’s Community Change Grant was part of a $2.8 billion program created under the Inflation Reduction Act to help tribes and local governments address climate impacts. The funding ended May 1 when EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin canceled more than 780 environmental-justice grants under a presidential executive order eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.
Tribal Chair Melanie McFalls said the loss halted key climate-resilience plans, including weatherizing homes and expanding water infrastructure. Despite setbacks, the tribe has continued smaller water and food-security projects with limited funds, Nevada Current reported.
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