CHIPPEWA NATIONAL FOREST

US House of Representatives passes Lake Winnibigoshish Land Exchange Act

Pioneer Staff Report — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 17:28:35 GMT

WASHINGTON — The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed Minnesota’s 8th Congressional District Rep. Pete Stauber’s Lake Winnibigoshish Land Exchange Act.

The bill, passed by the House on Tuesday, Jan. 21, would exchange 36.7 acres owned by the Bowen Lodge resort in Deer River for 17.5 acres managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the Chippewa National Forest, a release said.

This is Stauber’s first bill to pass the House in the 119th Congress.

"This land exchange is a win-win, which is why it passed out of the House with unanimous support," Stauber said in the release. "It will grant the Bowen Lodge permanent access to the waterfront, ensuring that guests and residents of Itasca County can partake in recreational opportunities for generations to come, all while helping the Chippewa National Forest achieve its management goals."

Lake Winnibigoshish, also known as Lake Winnie, is located in the Chippewa National Forest and is home to Bowen Lodge.

"Bowen Lodge is a fishing lodge currently run by Bill and Gail Heig, who have served as incredible stewards of Lake Winnie, while also providing fishing and recreation opportunities to the local community," the release said.

Currently, Bowen Lodge has a 20-year agreement with the USFS to lease acreage along the shoreline of Lake Winnie, where the Heigs operate their marina. Under their stewardship, Lake Winnie has remained accessible to the citizens of Itasca County.

Stauber’s bill would facilitate a land exchange between Bowen Lodge and the USFS, providing Bowen Lodge permanent access to the lakeshore and marina, along with greater certainty for the greater Itasca County community, the release said.

In exchange for this land, Bowen Lodge would convey nearby acreage to the USFS, which would then be added to the Chippewa National Forest.

"I urge the Senate to quickly pass this legislation and send it to the President’s desk," Stauber said.

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Comment period open for UBA improvement project at Chippewa National Forest

Pioneer Staff Report — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 20:28:31 GMT

BLACKDUCK — The Chippewa National Forest is seeking comments regarding the proposed Upper Mississippi – Ten Section Unique Biological Area Habitat Improvement Project (UBA Project). The UBA Project consists of 2,866 acres of National Forest land at the Blackduck Ranger District.

Comments are needed by Saturday, Jan. 25 and can be faxed to (218) 835-3132; sent electronically to douglas.putt@usda.gov with the subject line UBA Project - Public Comment; mailed to the Blackduck Ranger District Office with an address line of "ATTN: Douglas Putt, West Zone Planner, 417 Forestry Dr. NW, Blackduck, MN 56630," and titled "UBA Project Public Comment."

The Forest Service asks that the public comment includes your name, address, telephone number and the title of the project addressed.

The Upper Mississippi - Ten Section Unique Biological Area Habitat Improvement Project is set within a boundary of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe including areas along the Mississippi River between Lake Winnibigoshish and Cass Lake and its primary purpose is to help move vegetative conditions within the area toward the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe’s Desired Vegetative Conditions (DVCs).

"The proposed vegetation management activities are designed to move toward achieving ecosystem and landscape resilience objectives for the Upper Mississippi River and Ten Section Unique Biological Areas (UBA)," a release said. "This includes improving forest diversity within the context of conditions more representative of native plant communities."

"Forests diverse in composition, structure and age may be more resilient and provide more diverse wildlife habitat conditions," the release added.

The USDA Forest Service is proposing activities to help aid the project.

The first is a timber harvest, including a commercial thin of about 269 acres of red pine plantations. Some stands may need two thinning entries to meet project objectives. Thinning would be completed before any prescribed fire activities in the stands.

The second activity is a prescribed fire on about 1,500 acres.

"This would be multi-entry to meet multiple project objectives and to restore native plant communities," according to the release. "Actual acres prescribed (to) burn will depend on fuel types, resource protection mitigation, etc."

The third activity is planting/seeding where needed within the project area to restore native plant communities.

For additional information about this project or the public comment process, contact Douglas Putt at douglas.putt@usda.gov

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Chippewa National Forest Christmas tree permits available to purchase for upcoming holiday season

Pioneer Staff Report — Thu, 28 Nov 2024 19:29:00 GMT

CASS LAKE — Christmas tree permits for the Chippewa National Forest are now available to purchase online or in person at any Chippewa National Forest office.

“National forests are full of beautiful landscapes that offer memorable experiences for all," USDA Forest Service Chief Randy Moore said in a release. "Experiences become memories that last through generations, and exploring a national forest to select a tree that becomes the centerpiece for the holiday season creates a connection between the forest and a family’s story."

To purchase a Christmas tree permit online, visit recreation.gov and search for Chippewa National Forest Christmas tree permits. It’s important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing the permit. Visitors will also need to set up or log in to an account to complete the transaction.

To purchase a permit in person, visit one of the Chippewa National Forest offices, Monday through Friday.

"For many families, bringing home a Christmas tree from their local national forest is a cherished tradition carried on for generations," Forest Supervisor Michael Stansberry said in the release. "Families seeking to create new traditions can embark on an exciting adventure by visiting their local national forest, where they can wander through the woods in search of the perfect tree."

Cutting a Christmas tree also improves forest health. The permit system helps to thin densely populated stands of small-diameter trees. Local forest health experts identify areas that benefit from thinning trees that tend to be the perfect size for Christmas trees. Removing these trees in designated areas helps other trees grow larger and can open areas that provide food for wildlife.

Fourth graders with an Every Kid Outdoors pass are eligible for a free Christmas tree permit and can apply by entering the pass or voucher number when purchasing a permit (a $2.50 reservation fee will be applied). Kids of all ages can download, color and decorate their tree with this Christmas tree ornament coloring page for a fun, handmade addition to their tree.

Details about designated cutting areas, dates and types of trees that may be cut in the Chippewa National Forest may be found at recreation.gov/tree-permits.

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Chippewa National Forest's Stony Point Campground to undergo renovations in 2025

Pioneer Staff Report — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 16:39:00 GMT

CASS LAKE — Chippewa National Forest officials have announced that in 2025, the Forest Service will conduct improvements at Stony Point Campground to enhance visitor's camping experience.

The renovation project will address deferred maintenance by constructing a new well, well house, a new water distribution system and a new electrical system with 50-amp service to each campsite.

To ensure construction can be done in accordance to the availability of contractors in appropriate weather, the Stony Point Campground 2025 open season will begin May 9 and continue through Aug. 4 with the camp transitioning to a first come first served basis on July 19.

This early closure is being implemented for the health and safety of the public and workers, according to a release.

“We recognize the early closure of Stony Point Campground this season may impact visitors as many families enjoy late summer and fall camping on the Chippewa National Forest,” said Walker District Ranger Ann Long Voelkner. “The closure allows the Forest to make several much-needed updates and improvements to enhance visitor experiences at Stony Point for years to come.”

Leading up to the construction and campground closure date of Aug. 4, 2025, the following may impact visitors:

Water may be intermittently unavailable as the closure date nears. Visitors are asked to pack enough water ahead of time. Increased noise during pre-construction. Contractors may be staging construction equipment and material; however, no construction will occur earlier than Aug. 4. Intermittent area closures for public safety may occur in the campground. For safety, respect all posted closures.

Officials plan to open Stony Point Campground in full for the 2026 camping season. For more information regarding this project, contact the Walker Ranger District at (218) 547-1044.

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Chippewa National Forest renews co-stewardship agreement with Leech Lake Band

Pioneer Staff Report — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 20:35:02 GMT

CASS LAKE — The National Forest Service and Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe have signed an agreement continuing the partnership between the two entities.

According to a release, on Oct. 21, USDA Forest Service Eastern Regional Forester Tony Dixon and Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Chairman Faron Jackson Sr. signed a memorandum of understanding as part of a unique federal-tribal relationship that presents opportunities to balance the social, economic and cultural well-being of the Band, while addressing the agency’s multiple-use mission.

“We will continue our work together to identify shared priorities and implement shared projects focused on forest and watershed restoration, fish and wildlife habitat improvement and preserve socially and culturally significant places,” Forest Supervisor Michael Stansberry said in the release. “The overlap of boundaries and jurisdiction provides us with an opportunity to implement co-stewardship practices and enhance our partnership with the Band.”

The signing builds on the recently expired 2019 Memorandum of Understanding between the Chippewa National Forest and the Band by formalizing the consultation process and cultivating trust related to forest management decisions.

“Our ongoing partnership with the U.S. Forest Service reflects the deep connection the Leech Lake Band has with the land," said Chairman Faron Jackson Sr. "Together, we are committed to preserving our natural resources and cultural heritage, ensuring that our forests and waters remain healthy and abundant for future generations. Co-stewardship strengthens and supports the Band’s goals for environmental protection, economic growth and the preservation of our way of life. We look forward to continuing this important work, hand in hand, for the benefit of our people and the land we call home.”

The agreement provides a framework for cooperation between the Forest Service and the Leech Lake Band for natural resource management, economic development and employment, training and education, maintaining Ojibwe cultural lifeways, and regulatory jurisdiction on National Forest System and trust lands within the boundaries of the Leech Lake Band.

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The challenges we face today go beyond forest and tribal boundaries, necessitating working closely to find new ways of doing business at a greater pace and scale to benefit resources and people,” Dixon said. “We acknowledge today’s signing with optimism about facing challenges as co-stewards, working collaboratively for the good of our resources and communities.”

Congress created the Chippewa in the early 20th century from lands that had been set aside to serve as a treaty-guaranteed reservation for the Band. Today, about 90% of the tribal land lies within forest boundaries while 45% of the forest lies within the tribe’s boundaries.

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Commentary: Indigenous knowledge plays critical role in securing resilience of Minnesota forests

Keith Karnes, Division of Resource Management Forestry Director — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 11:30:00 GMT

The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe shares more boundaries with the federally managed National Forest System than any other tribe in the United States, with 75% of the reservation border adjoining the Chippewa National Forest in northern Minnesota.

Being in the Northwoods, timber harvesting and forest management are important to the tribe’s economy. Yet, the value of the forest extends well beyond timber production. Forests provide the Leech Lake Band a deep cultural foundation, sustaining life for humans, plants and animals, all while cleaning the air and water.

However, forest health has declined rapidly over the past two centuries. Clear-cut logging by European settlers combined with a management legacy of fire suppression and the impacts of climate change are increasingly exposing our forests to risks from severe wildfire, insects and disease and drought.

Many modern forests now lack a diversity of tree ages, especially older trees which are a vital component of a healthy and resilient forest. Old-growth forest conditions are now present on just 13% of lands within federal national forests, and here in the State of Minnesota, it’s less than half that amount.

The absence of older forests means a loss of vital habitat for important plants and animals. For example, old-growth forests are essential habitats for eagles, a doodem (clan) animal of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe. Eagles need very tall trees to nest and hunt, heights that can only be provided by old-growth forests. By protecting old-growth forests, we protect the vital habitat of the great American bald eagle.

While fire — including natural ignitions and cultural burning — contributes to the health of many forest ecosystems, the average acreage burned in the U.S. has more than doubled in the past half-century. The Federal Government now spends $7 billion to manage the escalating wildfire crisis. However, this $7 billion is only sufficient to conduct fuel treatments on 60 million of the 800 million forested acres nationwide.

Additionally, forests damaged by insects sequester 69% less carbon than healthy forests — the equivalent of adding 50 million tons of CO2, or the emissions of 10 million cars, into our atmosphere each year.

In light of these challenges, the U.S. Forest Service is exploring ways to restore old-growth forests as part of a strategy to increase the resilience and health of national forests, both for the benefit of people and of nature. Specifically, these agencies are looking for ways to strengthen forest resilience by incorporating Indigenous knowledge into forest management planning and practices.

Contrary to myths of “virgin” or “untouched” forests when Europeans first arrived on this continent, the evidence is clear that forests were actively taken care of by Indigenous people for thousands of generations. And it is still that way today.

Modern studies have shown that Native American land use increased the abundance of fire-tolerant, shade-intolerant and nut-producing trees up to 31 miles from Indigenous settlements. Utilizing Indigenous knowledge can help slow and even reverse the troubling trends in forest health.

The Leech Lake Band knows how important a healthy and resilient forest system is for the livelihood of those living throughout northern Minnesota. They are excited to partner with the U.S. Forest Service to share their knowledge of practices that will reduce the dangers of uncontrolled wildfires, increase long-term timber yields using sustainable forestry practices, and provide diverse habitats for numerous species, along with many other resources and values provided by healthy forests.

The reality is that the federal government does not have the capacity to adequately manage the nation’s 193 million acres of national forests alone and forest health issues do not respect political boundaries.

Fortunately, there are 574 federally recognized tribes across the United States with a deep connection to the land and a unique understanding of forest and environmental relationships learned and passed down over many generations.

Let’s expand engagement with tribes — the original stewards of these lands — and work together to address the health of our nation's forests so everyone can receive the benefits from healthy and resilient forests.

Keith Karnes began working for the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe in 2006 and now serves as the Division of Resource Management Forestry Director. ]]>

Volunteers needed for Camp Rabideau preservation project

Pioneer Staff Report — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 15:23:36 GMT

BLACKDUCK — HistoriCorps and the Chippewa National Forest are seeking volunteers of all skill levels to help rehabilitate Camp Rabideau with week-long volunteer opportunities running from June 23 through Aug. 16.

Located six miles south of Blackduck, Camp Rabideau was built in 1935 to house stationed corps members who worked on nearby conservation and land management projects during the Great Depression.

In 2006, the camp was designated as a National Historic Landmark and in 2010 was repurposed as Rabideau Conservation Academy and Learning Center, providing year-round programming for youth and young adults serving nearby counties.

This year, HistoriCorps will rehabilitate the cedar shake roof of the pavilion, assess and repair deteriorated posts and pedestals of the pavilion, and install updated flooring, wall sheathing and roof insulation on one of the barracks.

HistoriCorps seeks volunteers to work week-long sessions scheduled Sunday evenings through Friday mornings. The first session is set for June 23-28, the second session from June 30 to July 5, third session from July 28 to Aug. 2, fourth session from Aug. 4-8 and a fifth session from Aug. 11-16.

HistoriCorps welcomes but does not require any experience in the trades as mentorship and necessary tools will be provided. All meals are also provided.

Volunteers will have access to camping accommodations for tents, truck campers, campervans, trailers and RVs, although no RV hookups are available.

A nonprofit dedicated to engaging volunteer workforces to preserve historic places and free mentorship in the preservation trades, HistoriCorps is partnering with the Northern Bedrock Historic Preservation Corps to provide a pathway for young adults to participate in preservation activities from July 9-17.

More information can be found at www.historicorps.org or by emailing info@historicorps.org.

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Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe secures victory in land restoration efforts

Pioneer Staff Report — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 19:54:47 GMT

CASS LAKE — The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe is on its way to regaining over 11,000 acres of land from the Chippewa National Forest into its tribal boundaries under the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Reservation Restoration Act.

According to a release, this legislation — enacted in December 2020 — has been a crucial step in addressing historical injustices faced by the band.

“These lands, wrongfully taken through illegal transfers, are now being restored after generations of effort by the band,” the release said.

Additionally, the Leech Lake Reservation Restoration Technical Corrections Act of 2023 was introduced in March 2023 to make note of an additional 4,362 acres to be transferred to the band.

Following the signing of a Decision Memo by U.S. Forest Service Regional Forester Tony Dixon, 345 parcels of land totaling 11,778.13 acres will be transferred to Leech Lake. Next steps include the publication of legal descriptions in the National Register formalizing the land transfer process, expected on June 28.

“It is with great joy and hope for the future in our hearts that we celebrate the latest step forward in restoring a portion of the illegally transferred lands back to the Leech Lake Ojibwe,” Leech Lake Chairman Faron Jackson Sr. said in the release. “On behalf of the Band, I want to express my gratitude to the Forest Service and tribal staff collaborating behind the scenes to move this land transfer toward completion.

“This is one of the most monumental and positive developments to take place on Leech Lake since the first treaties were signed and the reservation was established in 1855.”

Representatives from the Chippewa National Forest and Leech Lake Band jointly identified land parcels to be transferred with an intent to limit fragmentation of ownership boundaries while honoring private property rights.

The legislation’s language made provisions for honoring any existing private property rights such as easements, permits and other encumbrances.

“It’s been a pleasure and an honor to work with the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe as we implement the Reservation Restoration Act to transfer back approximately 11,778 acres to this sovereign nation,” Chippewa Forest Supervisor Michael Stansberry said. “We understand the importance the land holds to the Band and will continue to work with the Band as we move through this process.”

A commemorative ceremony recognizing the land restoration will take place at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 17, at the Bug-O-Nay-Ge-Shig �� in Bena. This is open to the public.

More detailed information about the land transfer and the Decision Memo can be found on the Chippewa National Forest website.

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Chippewa National Forest to conduct prescribed fires in Blackduck Ranger District

Pioneer Staff Report — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 20:16:24 GMT

CASS LAKE — Chippewa National Forest fire crews plan to conduct prescribed fires on the Blackduck Ranger District starting as early as Saturday, April 13.

According to a release from the Chippewa National Forest Service, the exact dates of operations are dependent on current and forecasted local weather conditions.

The two permanent openings are located off Forest Road 3843 just west of the Morph Meadows Wildlife Management Area. The openings are approximately 2 to 3 acres each.

Operations by fire crews will reduce the potential for wildfires by reducing hazardous fuel loads. In addition, prescribed fire restores a once occurring natural process for which the ecosystem relies on for fire adapted plants, the release said.

"While fire crews are on location, columns of smoke may be visible from a long distance and smoke may cross over roads adjacent to the burn area," the release said. "If smoke is encountered on the roadways, drivers should slow down and turn on the vehicle lights."

In addition, drivers in the area of prescribed fire operations should drive with caution and be aware of fire crews and equipment.

Prescribed fires are conducted under specific weather conditions and are designed to accomplish pre-determined forest management goals.

Chippewa National Forest fire staff follow strict guidelines for conducting prescribed burns, and take into consideration environmental factors such as temperature, humidity and wind. If any environmental conditions are not within limits, the operations will be postponed.

Questions regarding the prescribed fires can be directed to the Blackduck Ranger District (218) 835-4291. Additional information for the Chippewa National Forest is available at fs.usda.gov/chippewa.

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Chippewa National Forest visitors should prepare for muddy trails, exercise caution

Pioneer Staff Report — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 13:03:00 GMT

CASS LAKE — A mild winter and the start of springtime conditions have many people eager to explore the Chippewa National Forest.

Despite the lack of snowfall this winter, forest officials are cautioning visitors that many forest roads may not be accessible due to wet and muddy conditions. Additionally, traveling on thawing, saturated and muddy roads can result in resource damage and present safety concerns, especially if visitors are not prepared, a release said.

Forest officials are encouraging the public to minimize adverse impacts to natural resources by avoiding travel on roads that are susceptible to rutting due to springtime freeze-thaw cycles.

Spring load limitations for all Chippewa National Forest roads will follow restriction dates as designated by the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

Restrictions began on March 6 in the north-central zone and on March 11 in the north zone. The Chippewa National Forest will enforce a seasonal restriction of 4-ton per axle weight limit on Forest Service roads. Individual posting of roads will not occur.

According to the release, unless otherwise noted in the Seasonal and Special Vehicle Designations table on the Motor Vehicle Use Maps, Off-Highway Vehicle use is prohibited from March 15 to May 1 annually on all Chippewa National Forest roads to minimize the damage to forest resources.

Forest officials remind users that some roads remain seasonally closed for wildlife or resource concerns and encourage users to report resource damage if they see it.

Cross-country travel is not permitted under the Chippewa National Forest’s travel management plan. Motor Vehicle Use Maps display the open and seasonally open road system on the Chippewa National Forest.

These maps are free and can be picked up at any Chippewa National Forest office or downloaded from the Forest website. Digital downloads of the maps are also available on the Avenza Maps website.

Springtime forest visitors should prepare for muddy trails and variable conditions. To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, visitors should check the Chippewa National Forest website for any road or trail closures and other safety-related updates.

Alternatives to hiking or biking on muddy and potentially unsafe trails in the spring are Migizi Trail, Heartland Trail and Paul Bunyan State Trail, all of which are paved. In the summer and fall months, after unpredictable Minnesota spring conditions, visitors can enjoy over 298 miles of non-motorized trails that the Chippewa National Forest offers.

One of the more popular trails on the Forest is the North Country Trail, which crosses 61 miles of forested lake country through the Chippewa National Forest as part of the larger North Country National Scenic Trail.

Additional information for the Chippewa National Forest is available at fs.usda.gov/chippewa.

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