For thousands of years, the Native American people of Southern California drew on their understanding of the natural world to thrive. Yet, the people understood they were connected to an interacting, natural system and they had an obligation to the rest of the universe's creatures. This rich knowledge of how nature works and how to use resources without depleting them was a result of intense observation, patience and a sense of kinship with the natural environment. Today, the Morongo tradition continues through the Morongo Green Enterprise Program. This program demonstrates the Tribe's commitment to go beyond federal environmental compliance by seeking out ways to prevent pollution at its source, close waste loops, and maximize conservation opportunities.

This program encourages enterprises to take a proactive approach to environmental change and recognizes them as environmental leaders in the Tribal and surrounding communities with the Morongo Green Enterprise Certification. Why be Green?

• Going green saves you money
• Environmentally responsible businesses are efficient businesses
• Reduce waste and utility costs
• Create a positive, safe working environment
• Improve your business' image
• Become recognized as an environmental leader

A Morongo Green Enterprise goes beyond federal environmental compliance and meets the Morongo Environmental Protection Department's Green Enterprise conservation standards in the following areas:

• Solid Waste Reduction
• Energy Conservation
• Water Conservation
• Pollution Prevention
• Environmentally Preferred Purchasing

Great respect was given and prayer was offered when medicines and foods were harvested. To take too much could lead to the depletion of a source; so much care was taken to ensure that these plants would be available for future use. Today, the struggle for a respectful coexistence continues. It is everyone's responsibility to ensure that the gifts we enjoy in our everyday lives are not taken in excess. To lessen our impact on the land is to show respect for our home. This program speaks to that."

Michael Contreras Jr.
Cultural Heritage Program Coordinator
Morongo Band of Mission Indians