TULALIP — If an ambitious, 13-part TV documentary on American Indians becomes reality, its producers will have the Tulalip Tribes to thank for helping it get off the ground.
The tribes have donated $35,000 toward the production of “Growing Native,” being planned jointly by KCTS (Channel 9) of Seattle and Native American Public Telecommunications, Inc., of Lincoln, Neb.
In 13 half-hour episodes, “Growing Native” will be fashioned as a cultural travelogue, exploring the people and cultures of tribes all around the United States — especially their environmental initiatives, according to its producers.
Tulalip Tribes Chairman Mel Sheldon said the Tulalips are excited to promote American Indian culture and share their own environmental projects in the series.
“Native American tribes are an economic, cultural and environmental force in this country,” Sheldon said.
“Growing Native” plans to highlight tribes that practice sustainable agriculture and aquaculture and are re-establishing use of indigenous foods through hunting, fishing and gathering. The series also plans to showcase tribes’ increasing use of renewable energy.
The producers hope to begin shooting within a year and air the series in 2012. First, though, they have to raise a lot more money.
The series is projected to cost more than $1 million to produce, but so far only $62,500 has been raised.
Still, producers are optimistic. It’s early in the process, said Tom Niemi, director of distribution for KCTS.
“This is really kind of the start of it,” he said.
Bill Sheets: 425-339-3439; sheets@heraldnet.com.
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