The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service transferred 680 acres to be held in trust by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
The U.S. Department of the Interior announced the completion this month of a transfer of 680 acres from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to be held by the Bureau of Indian Affairs in trust for the Spirit Lake Nation in North Dakota.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said, “This land transfer is a significant step toward strengthening tribal sovereignty and empowering the Spirit Lake Nation to use its trust lands for economic growth and community well-being.”
He continued, “From the beginning, the Trump administration has been committed to fostering self-determination and expanding opportunities for tribal nations. By returning these lands, we are honoring the Spirit Lake Nation’s deep connection to their homeland and ensuring they have the resources needed to build a stronger future.”
The Spirit Lake Nation had put in a decades-long effort to recover the land. The legal status of the land remaining titled to the United States in trust on behalf of the tribe will retain certain benefits and protections.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Burgum to seek God’s direction as he oversees the Department of the Interior.
- For Acting Director Bart Stevens as he heads the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
- For the leaders of the Spirit Lake Nation as they steward the land that has been transferred back to their people.
Sources: Department of the Interior
