Office of Environmental Programs Services Cont.

The Comanche Nation Environmental Program holds our Annual Earth Day event in April. We have several students from surrounding schools and many tribal members in attendance. We also have several vendors and other Environmental Entities, as well as our own division set up booths to share information and helpful tips on being more environmentally aware.

Water Quality Division

• Comanche Nation Water Quality routinely conduct spot and duration testing within our CN boundaries to monitor the water quality of major lakes, rivers, streams, and creeks within the jurisdictional boundaries of the Comanche Nation. These tests measure key parameters such as pH, turbidity, nitrate-N, dissolved oxygen, temperature, and conductivity.
• Tribal members who rely on private drinking water wells may request water testing services at no cost. Tribal members who have drinking water concerns or questions may also request an assessment or drinking water test. After the analysis is complete, a comprehensive written report detailing all findings will be provided to the requesting tribal member.
• Important Reminder:
  Improper disposal of trash—such as dumping waste along roadways, in fields, wooded areas, stream valleys (creeks), or parklands—is strictly prohibited. These actions are not only illegal but also harmful to the environment. Littering pollutes natural habitats, endangers wildlife, and can contaminate water sources. Please use designated waste disposal or recycling facilities to help protect our shared environment and maintain the beauty and health of our community.
• The Comanche Nation Water Quality Department conducts residential and well water testing to ensure the drinking water quality for the Nation’s tribal members.

Solid Waste Department

• The Solid Waste department currently rotates the Recycle Bin location to several Comanche Nation locations. This includes the tribal community buildings in Apache, Walters, and the Cahoma building in Cache.  Members can bring their tires and old batteries to the Environmental department office, to be properly disposed of, during business hours throughout the year.
• The Comanche Nation Solid Waste department is very proud to mention that our Annual Tire and Battery Drive has helped our communities in properly disposing of tires and batteries with collecting 3,000 tires yearly. Our Annual Tire and Battery Drive, held every February, is open to the public and takes place in the Anadarko, Apache, Cache, and Walters communities.

Curbside Services 

• Curbside Services are offered on a case-by-case basis. You must qualify for curbside pickup before that service is rendered.

The following towns provide curbside services:

Lawton: https://www.lawtonok.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/2820/638708828533770000

Cache: Waste Connection does Bulk Pick-Up once a month, on the last Tuesday of each month. You must call Waste Connections at 580-353-1467 to be put on the list to have your bulk picked up. 

 https://www.cachegov.com/wp-content/uploads/1129-Bulk-waste-guidelines_highlighted.pdf

Walters: Once a week, provided by waste connections, for more information, please call 580-875-3337.

Why Air Duct Cleaning is Important

Modern homes and workplaces are built to be airtight and energy efficient. While this conserves energy, it also traps pollutants and contaminants inside, significantly reducing the quality of the air we breathe. Contaminated air circulates through central heating and cooling systems, and even frequent filter replacements cannot eliminate the accumulation of debris in the ducts. Over time, this buildup not only affects indoor air quality but also reduces system efficiency, shortens the lifespan of the HVAC system, and continues to recirculate pollutants throughout your living space.

Sources of Indoor Air Pollution

Indoor air quality issues are primarily caused by pollutants released from various sources inside the home. Without adequate ventilation, these pollutants are not diluted or expelled, leading to higher concentrations. Factors such as high humidity and elevated temperatures can further amplify pollutant levels.

Common indoor pollutants include:

• Dust mites
• Bacteria and viruses
• Mold and fungi
• Pet dander and hair
• Skin flakes and decaying organic matter
• Pollen and textile fibers
• Chemical residues and allergens

Health Impact of Indoor Dust

Indoor dust can worsen respiratory conditions and contribute to:

• Burning or itchy eyes
• Skin irritation
• Allergy flare-ups
• Aggravation of asthma or other breathing issues

In fact, indoor dust is often more harmful than outdoor dust due to the concentration of biological and chemical contaminants it contains. Regular inspection and cleaning of your air ducts is essential to maintaining a healthy home environment, improving HVAC efficiency, and ensuring better indoor air quality for you and your family.