Responding to the Wildfires in Napa County and Across California
Like so many of our neighbors in Northern California, we as the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake are deeply shocked and concerned by the continuing devastation being wrought by wildfires throughout the entire region. As more and more of our fellow residents are finding themselves in danger, we must recognize the great work being done by so many in providing help and assistance to those who have suffered losses.
In the midst of great danger and fear, the goodness of our neighbors has shone through in the noble efforts of local tribes, who are working together to provide assistance to those in need. It is this coming together in times of tragedy that displays the best in all of us.
We’ve utilized every resource at our disposal to assist with recovery efforts. Our Executive Council, along with the staff of Running Creek Casino and our administrative personnel have facilitated the distribution of needed meals to families and first responders via Grace Church of Kelseyville as well as to the 7th Day Adventist Church in Lakeport, the Elem Tribal community and Coyote Valley Tribe. The Upper Lake Pomo Executive Council has additionally declared a state of emergency, meaning that we are now able to allocate financial resources that will provide shelter, personal necessities, emergency cash and transportation for Tribal members and neighbors affected by wildfires.
At this juncture, so many of our friends and neighbors remain in a state of danger or uncertainty. The spread of such fires can be highly unpredictable, and thus all area residents should be aware of their proximity to the danger. We advise all those in the potential danger area to continue to monitor the situation via local news and emergency reports. While the hardworking first responders bravely fight the flames, area residents can use these links to monitor and track the spread of the fires: https://firemap.sdsc.edu/ orhttp://www.fire.ca.gov/current_incidents. You may also sign up for emergency alerts by texting your zip code to 888–777. Click here for other important information such as emergency phone numbers, road closures, evacuations, and shelters.
