FY 2008 OCRAC Activities

The National Civil Rights Committee (NCRC) partnered with the Indian Nations Conservation Alliance (INCA) and IAC to provide training to state Civil Rights Advisory Council (CRAC) chairpersons. The fourth annual American Indian Ag Symposium entitled “Native Americans Coming Together Caring for Mother Earth” in Las Vegas, was the site for the training.

Carol Crouch, district conservationist, Purcell, and member of the NCRC, developed the training presentation. The PowerPoint presentation highlighted CRAC efforts and activities from the states. Cultural awareness presentations included Working Effectively with American Indian Landowners & Tribes; Asian Pacific Landowners; Latino Producers; and, African American Producers. Presenters included Crouch, Pam Aguon, Phuc Vu, Heather Medina, and Kim Bradford.

Eight state conservationists were part of a discussion panel open to CRAC attendees. Oklahoma State Conservationist Ron Hilliard was one of the panel members. Emphasis on the importance of CRAC within states was voiced by panel members, and the value of civil rights activities within the agency.

Also in attendance were West Regional Conservationist Sara Schmidt and USDA Deputy Under Secretary Gary Mast. Oklahoma attendees included OCRAC Chair David Hungerford and Shelley Hungerford, administrative assistant.