The following press release was published by the US EPA on Nov. 9. It is reproduced in full below.
CHICAGO (November 9, 2021) – Today U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe of Minnesota is now approved to develop water quality standards for surface waters on the Leech Lake Reservation. The 864,158-acre reservation spans portions of Beltrami, Cass, Hubbard, and Itasca counties in Northern Minnesota.
“EPA is pleased that the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe is now empowered to protect streams and rivers on its reservation,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “I commend the Band for its strong commitment to safeguarding valuable water resources and community health in keeping with their tradition and heritage.”
After a thorough review of the Leech Lake Band’s application and public comments, EPA determined that the Band meets the Clean Water Act requirements to develop water quality standards “in a manner similar to a state’’ and to make water quality certifications for its reservation. An authorized tribe or state must propose any new or revised water quality standard under a separate action which is subject to public notice, public comment and EPA approval.
“The TAS recognition from the EPA to the Leech Lake Nation is an important affirmation of our inherent tribal sovereignty,” said Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Tribal Chairman Faron Jackson, Sr. “We are very pleased to see this key determination finally realized. Water is one of the most valuable resources we have here on Leech Lake. This will allow us to set standards for water quality that are more in line with our values as Anishinaabe people and help to preserve and protect our water for generations to come.”
“Minnesotans know that the Leech Lake Band is a dedicated protector of our shared waters,” said Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Commissioner Katrina Kessler. “The MPCA recognizes and respects the sovereign status of the Leech Lake Band and looks forward to consulting and collaborating with them in the future.”
At EPA, honoring the government-to-government relationship and advancing a strong partnership with Tribes is central to administering programs and advancing environmental justice and equity.
In November, the United States commemorates Native American Heritage Month – a time to celebrate the culture, heritage, and countless contributions of American Indians and Alaska Natives. This year’s theme, “Grounded in Tradition, Resilient in Spirit,” underscores that traditional teachings and practices have been central to the resiliency of Tribal communities.
For more information, go to: https://www.epa.gov/mn/leech-lake-band-ojibwe-application-treatment-similar-state-water-quality-standards-0
Source: US EPA
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