Farmer David Vipond and others believe White Earth Nation's aim is to stop conventional farming in general and may be focused on the R.D. Offutt farms, just on the east side of the reservation.
White Earth Nation officials say they contacted Minnesota officials “before and after” adopting a new water ordinance, but Minnesota leaders say they've had little contact with the band about it.
White Earth Nation officials say they contacted Minnesota officials “before and after” adopting a new water ordinance, but Minnesota leaders say they've had little contact with the band about it.
The White Earth Nation likes agriculture but not necessarily modern agriculture. Agriculture manager Wade Jackson is working to move the band back to traditional ways of growing food.
While farmers on and near White Earth Nation believe state officials control irrigation permits, the band believes it retained the right to control water rights through treaties with the government.