U.S. Department of Agriculture Holds Tribal Summit in Red Lake

RED LAKE, Minn. -- About 100 people attended a tribal summit hosted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) at the Seven Clans Casino on the Red Lake Reservation on Aug. 9-10.

Attendees learned how programs offered by USDA Rural Development, the Farm Service Agency and the Natural Resources Conservation Service could benefit tribal producers, residents and businesses. The University of Minnesota Extension Service also shared information on past success stories and program opportunities.

“The summit was a wonderful opportunity to connect with tribal members and continue building the USDA’s partnership with Minnesota’s American Indian community,” said Colleen Landkamer, State Director of Rural Development. “The USDA is a valuable resource for economic development and infrastructure improvements in tribal communities and it’s important that we keep tribal members updated on our programs.”

Summit attendees toured the Red Lake Reservation the afternoon of Aug. 9. The group visited the Red Lake Fishery, a greenhouse operation and wild rice fields.
“It’s important for the USDA to continue reaching out to Minnesota’s tribes,” said Don Baloun, State Conservationist for the Natural Resources Conservation Service. “It’s important that tribes hold the USDA accountable. If they feel we could be doing something differently, we want them to let us know about it.”

The Food and Agriculture Council (FAC) and State Outreach Council (SOC) also held its quarterly meeting during the summit. The FAC/SOC meeting is an opportunity for all USDA agencies and the Extension Service to share program updates, success stories and outreach efforts.

“Each time I visit an American Indian community, I learn something new about the challenges facing Minnesota’s tribes,” said Linda Hennen, State Executive Director of the Farm Service Agency. “I hope tribal attendees at the summit learned about new opportunities and programs offered by the USDA that can help them overcome these challenges.”

To learn more about the USDA, visit www.usda.gov  or contact the local USDA office in your region.