Oka' Institute, Chickasaw Nation, and Partners Celebrated for Outstanding Collaboration in Conservation Through Pulaski Award Partnership

The Oka' Institute at East Central University was honored on the floor of the Oklahoma House of Representatives for its role in presenting the prestigious Pulaski Award to the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Eastern Oklahoma Region on behalf of the National Interagency Fire Center.

This recognition also celebrated the strong partnerships among the Chickasaw Nation, Lake of the Arbuckles Watershed Association (LAWA), the Blue River Foundation of Oklahoma (BRFO), the National Park Service (Chickasaw National Recreation Area), The Nature Conservancy (Oka' Yanahli and Pontotoc Ridge Preserves), and numerous private landowners who are working together to promote wildfire management, watershed restoration, and community resilience.

The Pulaski Award, named after heroic forest ranger Ed Pulaski, recognizes exemplary contributions to wildfire management, prevention, and safety. The award presentation, made in collaboration with the Chickasaw Nation, honors the outstanding joint efforts to protect Oklahoma’s landscapes and communities.

"We are honored to work with the Chickasaw Nation, BIA, and our many partners on critical fire management and conservation initiatives," said Duane Smith, Executive Director of the Oka’ Institute. "This recognition reflects a tremendous team effort to safeguard Oklahoma's lands, watersheds, and communities for future generations."

The Pulaski Award was officially presented during a special ceremony in July 2024 at East Central University’s Chickasaw Business Conference Center. It now resides with the BIA Eastern Oklahoma Region until next year's award cycle.

Representative Tammy Townley, who helped present the certificate at the Capitol, remarked, "We are so proud of these brave individuals. They show strength and courage daily, and this award could not have gone to a more deserving group."

The Oka’ Institute, East Central University, and their partners remain committed to advancing sustainable land management, fire safety education, and long-term resilience efforts across Oklahoma and beyond.

For more information about the Oka' Institute and our programs, visit www.okainstitute.org.