KAT videographer Matt Fern captures footage of Les Benedict, Assistant Director of the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Environmental Department as he discusses the importance of the Black Ash tree to the tribe.  The Black Ash Tree is used for basket making, a fundamental part of the culture and economy of the St Regis Tribe. Mohawk baskets are world-renowned, displayed in museums around the world as well as used in households for everyday tasks including cooking and storage. Benedict discussed the environmental and natural threats to the tree as well as his department’s essential role in gathering and planting seeds to assure plentiful Black Ash for future generations of Mohawk basketmakers. This visit to the area along the Canadian border in northern New York is one of several trips KAT will be making with representatives of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. Video collected will be used as curriculum material demonstrating Tribal environmental projects reflecting good stewardship practices that enhance the sustainability of culture and community.