1854 Treaty Authority News

1854 Ceded Territory 2019 Moose Hunt Applications and Information Booklets are now available! Applications are due to by August 16th 2019 to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., NO LATE ACCEPTIONS. Snail mail, e-mail or fill them out in our office.

June 24, 2019

Duluth, Minnesota – Aquatic invasive species across the Great Lakes will get the blitz this summer. Partners at hundreds of water access sites throughout the region will be participating in an AIS Landing Blitz from June 28 to July 7 designed to inform boaters and others of the risks of introducing and spreading aquatic invasive species.

Minnesota is hosting Landing Blitz activities at the following five locations, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., on June 30, 2019.

• Munger Landing, Duluth
• Rices Point Landing, Duluth (*hosted by 1854 Treaty Authority)
• Agate Bay Boat Launch, Two Harbors
• Beaver House, Grand Marais
• HooDoo Point North, Tower

 
Volunteers, along with paid inspectors, will be partnering with state and provincial agencies at boat launches to demonstrate procedures used to prevent the spread of AIS and ways to identify AIS. They will also have information about the protocols for reporting an AIS discovery and local AIS laws and regulations.

While similar events have been hosted by individual states and provinces in previous years, organizers say this is the first time that all of the Great Lakes states and provinces are involved and coordinating efforts to maximize the event’s effect.

The event is an opportunity to work directly with boaters and deliver a coordinated, regional message about the importance of AIS prevention during the busiest boating weekends of the year.

“Working with local communities and volunteers will be key to the success of the event, said Doug Jensen, Minnesota Sea Grant AIS program coordinator.

The community members who are taking time out of their day to participate demonstrates that it takes efforts by everyone to help protect lakes and rivers from the unwanted impacts of invasive species.

For more information on the AIS Landing Blitz, including educational materials, location, and volunteer opportunities, visit www.glc.org/blitz. 

The 2019 Great Lakes AIS Landing Blitz is a multi-agency partnership effort. In Minnesota, Great Lakes Regional AIS Landing Blitz partners include Minnesota Sea Grant, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Watercraft Inspection and Law Enforcement Programs, Wildlife Forever, North St. Louis County Soil and Water Conservation District, Lake Vermilion Association, Lake County Soil and Water Conservation District AIS Program, 1854 Treaty Authority, Cook County AIS Program, and University of Minnesota Extension AIS Detectors Program.

For more information contact: Landing Blitz website or Doug Jensen, 218-726-8712, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The Native American Fish & Wildlife Society (NAFWS) is proud to announce the National Summer Youth Practicum (SYP) scheduled for July 29-August 2, 2-19 or August 5-August 9, 2019 at Camp Chaparral on the Yakama Nation reservation in Yakama, Washington. The National Summer Youth Practicum's goal is to welcome incoming 10th, 11th, and 12th grade Native American students who are interested in the preservation, protection, and enhancement of natural resources within their own tribe and community. The program provides an academic experience in a tribal environment. During the program, students will spend their time at Camp Chaparral participating in classroom sessions, field education, recreational activities, field trips, traditional methods, and, most important, interaction with students their own age from various tribes and states. A unique aspect of the program is the use of Native American professionals who are active in the field and, even more important, the invaluable teachings from Tribal Elders. The application is included. Thank you for your interest and please contact us for more information, please email or call: Sasha Hoskie, NAFWS, (303) 931-8871, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

APPLY HERE

Join the National Park Service, Grand Portage National Monument and SeaGrant on a trip to Isle Royale! This overnight camp experience is for youths ages 9-12 with an adult mentor. Educators are also welcome to participate! There are three (3) weekend options to choose from. Register HERE.

Mikwendaagoziwag Ceremonies at Sandy Lake

1854 Treaty Authority's Niibin (summer) newsletter is AVAILABLE HERE!

It features an update on Superior National Forest campground use by band members, a summary on Resource Management’s study on mercury in walleye vs. smallmouth bass, and announces the new tribal climate adaptation menu. Meet our new staff, and see what events you can catch us at this summer!
 

As always, if you have any questions don't hesitate to give us a call!

1854's Resource Management Division is hiring a Climate Specialist. This is a regular, full-time position (1 year, extension dependent upon funding). Application materials (including 1854 Application for Employment) are due June 21st, 2019.

The Anishinaabeg and all indigenous communities have been adapting to the environment and changing climate conditions since their existence. However, there is a sense of importance that requires some accelerated action to strategize a plan forward to conserve the relatives (resources) that we still have. It is especially important with fixed boundaries such as the 1854 Ceded Territory, because once the resources move out of the territory there is the disruption of treaty rights. These disruptions can affect communities spiritually, mentally and physically.

In the Spring of 2017, the Northern Institute for Applied Climate Sciences (NIACS) held an Adapting Forested Watersheds to Climate Change Workshop in Minocqua, WI. A case study for a wild rice restoration project was included as part of the workshop to be used with the NIACS Adaptation Workbook and Adaptation Menu. Anishinaabeg and indigenous workshop participants felt that the current NIACS menu did not adequately recognize or incorporate cultural considerations important for climate adaptation projects. As a result, the workshop participants as well as others who used the current NIACS menu decided to discuss the development of a new menu known as Dibaginjigaadeg Anishinaabe Ezhitwaad (Caring for Those Who Take Care of Us).

The purpose of Dibaginjigaadeg Anishinaabe Ezhitwaad was to approach climate adaptation from a cultural perspective. Anishinaabeg believe their truths are still relevant and it is only now that Western facts have begun to verify knowledge that has been the foundations of their existence for millennia. Decisions for use of the relatives were originally communal decisions made with recognition and acknowledgement through respect, reciprocity, and relationships.

Dibaginjigaadeg Anishinaabe Ezhitwaad is not intended to prescribe a singular indigenous approach for caring of the land and relatives. However, Dibaginjigaadeg Anishinaabe Ezhitwaad provides suggestions to assist in addressing needs of an Anishinaabe or another indigenous community.  It is encouraged for non-indigenous people or organizations interested in cultural approaches to climate adaptation and management to use Dibaginjigaadeg Anishinaabe Ezhitwaad. It is with great understanding that the underlying values and principles will guide your efforts and transform the dominant paradigm to one that is cultural, ethical, and effective.

Read Dibaginjigaadeg Anishinaabe Ezhitwaad.

1854's Enforcement Division is hiring an Enforcement Specialist Non-LEO. This is a temporary position. Application materials (resume and 1854 Application for Employment) are due May 23rd, 2019.

Ever wonder what it is like to work as a biologist or conservation officer? 

The 1854 Treaty Authority is hosting a week-long tribal youth camp in the Minnesota’s Arrowhead Region. From July 29^ththrough August 2^nd, American Indian high school students will dive into REALfish, wildlife and environmental activities. 

At this totally FREE camp, see what goes into resource management and enforcement careers. Meet other native students while monitoring manoomin, participating in fisheries surveys, and touring restoration field sites.

Are you a freshman, sophomore or junior affiliated with a tribe in Minnesota, Michigan and/or Wisconsin? Apply by May 30^th, at www.1854treatyauthority.org. Join camp‘Nenda’– and prepare yourself to take care of the land and your people.

Cathy Techtmann, Environmental Outreach Specialist

UW-Extension, 300 Taconite St., Hurley, WI 54534

Phone: 715.561.2695 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 3, 2019

APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR THE 2019 CLIMATE STRONG! EDUCATOR INSTITUTE

Join a growing network of teachers and community educators who are engaging youth in climate leadership and community resiliency by attending the 2019 Climate Strong! Educator Institute, July 8-12 at the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center in Ashland, WI and field locations within Lake Superior’s Chequamegon Bay region including the Bad River and Red Cliff tribal communities.

This professional development opportunity is designed to build climate teaching and leadership competencies in formal and informal educators, community leaders, and youth educators especially those serving tribal youth. The training integrates Oijbwe traditional ecological knowledge and leadership teachings, place-based investigations, and climate research.

Institute applications are now being accepted with enrollment limited to 30 participants. There is no cost to attend. Stipends and follow up support including mini-grants for youth-led community climate resiliency projects are available. Participants will receive multi-disciplinary teaching tools and resources that will build climate leadership confidence and capacity, both personally and in the youth they serve.

Climate Strong! is a partnership between the Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College, University of Wisconsin-Extension, Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission, 1854 Treaty Authority, and the Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve, with funding through a NOAA Climate Resiliency Grant.

For more information, Institute agenda, and an application visit the Climate Strong! website https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/nglvc/climate-strong/ or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; phone 715.561.2695

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The 1854 Treaty Authority Duluth-offices will be closed noon on Friday 4/19 through Monday 4/22 in observance of Good Friday and Easter. Regular business hours (8am-4:30pm) will resume Tuesday 4/23. We wish all a safe and happy holiday!

*We don't want to miss you! If you plan on stopping by, its best call ahead and give us a heads-up.

St. Louis County Historical Society's American Indian Advisory Committee is hosting the GEODOME, Monday April 29th, from 10:30-12:30pm. Jim Rock, UMD's Planetarium Program Director, will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the moon landing with Ojibwe and Dakota constellation stories!

Any classes and school groups are invited to come down to the Duluth Depot to participate. Each presentation lasts 20 mins and the dome can hold 30 at a time. 1854 Treaty Authority staff will also be there with a few fun crafts and activities!

If you have questions, or would like to reserve a spot at this event, contact Charley at the SLCHS: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

1854 had a BLAST working with UMD’s American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) students this past weekend at iskagamizigan! The AISES students held a great boil down and feast event on Saturday March 30^th on campus at the Bagley Nature Area, where over 150 folks attended. Chi-miigwech to all the contributors:

• Michael Dahmen for donating the artwork for the event flyer
• Jim Rock for the sunrise ceremony
• Jim Rock and Arnie Vaineo and the prayers in Dakota and Anishinaabemowin before the feast
• The Center for Native American and Minority Health for contributing the fabulous feast, with traditional foods
• Duluth Grill for providing the feast (and a delicious HOT stew for a cold day!)
• Participants from Many Rivers Montessori, FDLTCC’s Gidaa/NASA camp, AICHO’s Gimaaji program, Myers-Wilkins Elementary, and the neighbors who stopped by to learn something new
• The Cedar Creek Drum for sharing their songs
• 1854 staff for helping out on the tapping ceremony, and boil down day
• All UMD students and advisors that worked together to hold this year’s sugar bush in Bagley and share their heritage!

The endeavour had a great write-up in the UMD news!

See the event coverage on two TV new casts:

FOX clip

WDIO clip

1854 Treaty Authority's Ziigwan (spring) newsletter, AVAILABLE HERE!

It features an update on both the Governor's AND Tribal wild rice task forces, as well as this year's changes to the 1854 band member BWCAW access policy. Don't miss the announcement for our summer natural resources-focused youth camp, and catch the newly approved 2019-2020 1854 Ceded Territory fishing seasons. Check out some thoughts and announcements on iskagamizigan (sugarbush) as we start to "think spring".

As always, if you have any questions don't hesitate to give us a call!

1854's Resource Management Division is hiring two (2) Invasive Species Aides, and two (2) Fish and Wildlife Aides. These are seasonal/temporary positions. Application materials (including application for employment) are due April 12th!

by Division Director, Darren Vogt

Although we continue to be busy with some field activities, winter is the time to summarize all our projects from the past season. All annual reports from our projects can be found on the 1854 Treaty Authority website, but here are some highlights from our time taking care of things in the woods and waters…

2018 Harvest Results

In 2018, 20 Ceded Territory moose permits were issued – ten to Bois Forte and ten to Grand Portage hunting parties. Eight total moose were registered in 2018: five taken by Grand Portage and three by Bois Forte. The total number of deer permits issued in 2018 (134) was the lowest ever. Deer hunter success was also low in 2018, with only 33 deer registered in the Ceded Territory. Five bear permits were issued, and zero bear harvested. Trapping harvest of furbearers continued to be low, with five trappers registering a total of 40 marten and 2 fisher. Further details on the 2018 harvest results can be found in the harvest report posted on our website!

Our primary responsibility of 1854’s biologists is to manage and report on hunting and trapping seasons. In 2018, harvest in the 1854 Ceded Territory by Bois Forte and Grand Portage members included 33 deer and 8 moose. More information on these and other species can be found in the 2018 Big Game and Furbearer Harvest Report. Some of our other project work are summarized in the 2018 Small Mammal Survey Report, 2018 Monitoring of Moose Habitat Restoration Sites Report, and the 2018 Wolf Project Report.

We continue to be active on the water conducting a variety of fisheries surveys. Electrofishing assessments for walleye were completed in both spring and fall on inland lakes and is summarized in Spring Adult and Fall Juvenile Walleye Population Surveys. Our staff identified twelve (12) larval lake sturgeon in 2018 indicating natural reproduction occurring in the St. Louis River - read up in the 2018 Larval Sturgeon Drift Netting Summary. Trawling surveys were completed on the St. Louis River to track fish species diversity and abundance (2018 St. Louis River Estuary Bottom Trawling Survey Summary Report).

Environmental Biologist, Tyler Kaspar, assesses walleye and small mouth otoliths

Beginning in 1998, the 1854 Treaty Authority has tracked wild rice abundance on a group of lakes and rivers each year. Looking at the trend across time, the total abundance index (acreage and density) in 2018 was the lowest since the program began! If you want the skinny on the below average crop in 2018, read the full report: Wild Rice Monitoring and Abundance in the 1854 Ceded Territory (1998-2018). We also are involved with restoration efforts which is summarized in the St. Louis River Estuary Wild Rice Restoration Monitoring (2015-2018). It appears that impacts from geese and higher water levels continue to slow restoration success. Finally, we monitor wild rice growth and water quality issues downstream of a mining operation discussed in the Sandy Lake and Little Sandy Lake Monitoring (2010-2018).

Our energetic resource management team pitched into a handful of environmental projects this past field season. Unfortunately, an Eastern European ballast water hitchhiking zooplankton was identified in the Duluth/superior Harbor and the mouth of the St. Louis River by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 2017. Since the identification of Bloody Red Shrimp (Hemimysis anomola), 1854 has collaborated in population sampling surveys to monitor its status. Check out the results in Summary of Bloody Red Shrimp Sampling in the St. Louis River Estuary 2018. All other extensive invasive species work is highlighted in Invasive Species Summary Report 2018. Information from fish tissue analysis for mercury is included in the Analysis of Walleye and Smallmouth Bass Tissues for Mercury 2019 Technical Report. We continue to implement a variety of projects related to climate change; The 1854 Ceded Territory Climate Summary 2017-2018 summarizes phenological indicators over the past seasons.