October 12, 2023
Re: Lower Elwha Klallam Proposal for BIA Climate Change Planning Funding
Dear BIA Climate Change Resiliency Program reviewers,
Olympic Climate Action is in full support of the efforts made by the Lower Elwha Klallam
Tribe’s climate change planning team to prepare for the effects of climate change in the Lower
Elwha Klallam (LEKT) community through the development of a Climate Change Adaptation
Plan.
The City of Port Angeles and the surrounding locale are simultaneously taking steps to prepare
for climate change, and working alongside LEKT makes for a wonderful collaborative approach
to a pressing issue which involves everyone. A regional approach to the issue of climate change
is the optimal way to go.
It is important to plan for the possible changes in climate in the future and be aware of which
natural resources are at risk. Protecting these resources goes beyond simply natural resource
conservation. It is important to preserving the well-being of a culture.
We strongly support the formation of a Climate Change Adaptation Plan for the Lower Elwha
Klallam Tribe. After the completion of their Climate Change Assessment, the formation of an
Adaptation Plan for the tribe is an important and obvious next step in working towards
preparedness and mitigation. This plan will protect the wellbeing of the LEKT community and
add to the momentum of climate change preparedness across the Olympic Peninsula.
We fully support and recommend that the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe receive funding to
develop their Climate Change Adaptation Plan.
Feel free to contact me with any further questions.
Sincerely,
Ed Bowlby, President
on behalf of 700+ current members
Olympic Climate Action
Olympic Climate Action 