Judge approves Michigan treaty rights deal

Tuesday, November 6, 2007  

A federal judge on Monday approved a treaty rights settlement between the state of Michigan and five tribes.

The deal allows the tribes to set their own hunting, fishing and gathering limits. It covers public lands and waters identified in an 1836 treaty. Private landowners must give permission for tribal hunters.

The parties to the settlement are the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and the Bay Mills Indian Community.

"We've really got to start earning our keep now," Jimmie Mitchell, the natural resources director for the Little River Band, told the Associated Press.

Get the Story:
Judge OKs Michigan Indian Hunting Deal (AP 11/5)
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Relevant Documents:
FAQ | Consent Decree

Relevant Links:
Michigan Department of Natural Resources: http://www.michigan.gov/dnr

Related Stories:
Editorial: Treaty rights deal closes troubling chapter (10/5)
Editorial: A fair deal for Michigan tribes (10/1)
Michigan to announce treaty rights settlement (9/26)