The Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa is seeking treatment as state status from the Environmental Protection Agency.

The tribe wants to set its own water quality standards. Tribal officials are worried about open pit mining that could harm the reservation's water supply.

The tribe filed its application in March. Comments are being submitted through the state of Wisconsin.

One other Wisconsin tribe, the Mole Lake (Sokaogon) Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, has treatment as state status. The Lac Du Flambeau Band is waiting for an answer on its application.

Since 1989, 37 tribes have won treatment as state status. The courts have upheld the EPA's power to recognize tribal sovereignty.

Get the Story:
Bad River Band wants to determine its own water quality standards (The Ironwood Daily Globe 9/21)

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