An investigation of perceptions, concerns, and awareness of environmental issues among American Indians

This study identified environmental issues and concerns, barriers that prevent the delivery of programs and assistance, the level of awareness of justice/injustice, environmental education and legislation among American Indians. Similar self-administrated survey questionnaires were utilized to gather data from the indigenous grassroots population and tribal professionals. Twelve tribes were randomly selected from 39 Oklahoma tribes, six small and six large. Six hundred and forty five indigenous grassroots and 42 tribal professionals completed questionnaires. All participants were American Indian, over 18, who volunteered to participate. The questionnaires included ranking and Likert scales questions. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Post Hoc analysis, least significant difference (LSD), were used in tests of hypotheses. Grassroots surveys were conducted at tribal celebrations, respecting tribal protocol and traditions.; Health was the most significant environmental quality of life issue among both groups. The grassroots respondents considered the most serious environmental issue to be preservation and protection of their cultural resources; tribal professionals considered it to be water pollution. The major causes of environmental problems were open dumps, farming, and mining. Major differences between the two groups were identified regarding the delivery of environmental education. Grassroots awareness of environmental legislation and justice/injustice was low. Tribal professional indicated legislation was not sufficient or adequate to protect their environment. Generally all tribal professionals indicated that environmental injustice is occurring in their communities. Grassroots respondents rated delivery of environmental and conservation programs as low. Both groups identified barriers preventing the delivery of programs and assistance from federal, state, and tribal agencies. Neither group indicated toxic waste and open dump as a major threat in their communities even though several had superfund sites on tribal land. Environmental education and strategies to increase environmental awareness are recommended.