Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians, California
Located near Yosemite National Park in central California, the Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians (285 enrolled members) is addressing wildfire from municipal and cultural perspectives as new housing is built on its rancheria among rolling hills and forests. The Tuolumne Band is a federally recognized tribe of Miwok people.
At the tribe’s request, CPAW partnered with the Tuolumne Band in 2023 to conduct a wildfire audit to identify opportunities for incorporating wildfire into the community’s codes and land use plans. Following a site visit and input from tribal Elders, CPAW developed informational handouts for the tribal council and strategies for defensible space and home hardening that account for indigenous values and cultural identity. For example, oak trees and the acorns they produce are central to the culture and require special consideration, as do basket-weaving materials.
CPAW also assisted the tribe in applying for federal grant funding. The Tuolumne Band intends to develop a Community Wildfire Protection Plan and CPAW stands by to assist as needed.
Snapshot
- 2023 CPAW Community
- Members: 285
- Fuel Type: Hardwood-timber-grass