White Earth Nation outlines priorities in annual State of the Nation address

White Earth Nation leaders outlined priorities focused on land management, tribal health services and economic development during the tribe’s annual State of the Nation address in Mahnomen, according to MPR News. Chairman Michael Fairbanks highlighted the tribe’s collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge and a co-management agreement with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources involving White Earth State Forest lands within reservation boundaries.

Secretary Treasurer Michael LaRoque also discussed the tribe’s move to assume control of its health care clinical services from the Indian Health Service. LaRoque said the transition would allow White Earth Nation to manage hiring, budgeting and health care planning locally. Tribal leaders also announced continued expansion of Waabigwan Mashkiki, the tribe’s cannabis company, including a planned dispensary in Bemidji and a new location expected to open in Chanhassen in July.