Wisconsin Tribe
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and a Wisconsin state panel will hold back-to-back public meetings on a northern tribe's request to be treated as a state under the Clean Water Act, the first step in enacting tribal standards for water on the reservation.
The request from the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa has sparked both support and opposition from various groups and individuals. A formal comment period on the request was extended to February 21 after the EPA received complaints that little publicity had been given to the original comment period.
The Oneida County Board and town boards of Minocqua and Arbor Vitae and others have adopted resolutions in opposition to the request. Rep. Mark Green, R-Green Bay, sent a letter to the EPA in opposition. The state Department of Natural Resources has not taken a formal position yet.
If the EPA grants the LdF Band's request, the next step would be for the tribe to submit its water standards to the EPA for review. The agency would then schedule a formal comment period on the water standards. Approval of the application would allow the band to adopt, review and revise water quality standards on its reservation and to certify that discharges comply with the band's standards for surface water. You can send your thoughts.
February 17, 2006 6:41 AM | Category: Politics