About Us
Kori Ellien grew up on the Hoopa Indian Reservation in Hoopa, CA and is an enrolled Hupa tribal member with Yurok, Karuk, Ute and Blackfoot descendancy. Holding certifications in hazardous materials operations;
environmental health and land reuse; and, environmental compliance and code enforcement, Kori has been a noteworthy leader in the field of environmental protection. Currently, Kori is the Environmental Enforcement,
Response and Education Division Manager for the Yurok Tribe Environmental Program (YTEP) in Klamath, CA. Additionally, in her career, Kori has been honored with the National Association of Clean Water Agencies
Environmental Achievement Operations & Environmental Performance Award, Water Environment Federation National MS4 Stormwater and Green Infrastructure Award-Gold Recognition in Innovation, and Gold Recognition in
Program Management for her contributions to the City of Corpus Christi, Texas.
Growing up on Hog Ranch, without electricity or community water systems, provided Kori a unique childhood filled with hands on learning opportunities. Kori helped her father identify and repair water quality issues
at their home, sparking her curiosity for water quality and environmental protection. Kori is working toward a degree in Indigenous Law and has studied Oceanography and Environmental Science alongside her colleagues
throughout her career. After many years of training and trade experience, Kori returned to the North Coast to share her knowledge with the community as a member of the YTEP team.
On her days off, Kori enjoys spending time with her family going on adventures gathering mushrooms and regalia supplies; and searching for tide pools, cool rocks, swimming holes, and wild flowers. When Kori is not
keeping busy with adventuring, she enjoys baking, reading anything by Stephen King, painting snapshots of her life, and working in her garden.
Kori can be reached by e-mail at Kellien@yuroktribe.nsn.us