The U.S. Department of the Interior has announced the completion of a land transfer involving 680 acres from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to the Bureau of Indian Affairs. This land will be held in trust for the Spirit Lake Nation in Benson County, North Dakota.
“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,” stated Department of the Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. He emphasized that this move aligns with the Trump administration's commitment to fostering self-determination and expanding opportunities for tribal nations.
The administrative transfer concludes a lengthy effort by the Spirit Lake Nation, underscoring an ongoing commitment to enhancing tribal sovereignty, promoting economic opportunities, and improving quality of life for Indigenous people.
Spirit Lake Tribe Chairperson Lonna Jackson-Street described it as "a historic victory and an important milestone in our healing and reconciliation journey." She highlighted that every acre returned is a testament to past and present tribal leadership efforts. Jackson-Street expressed gratitude towards various agencies involved in facilitating this process, noting potential plans for using these lands to expand a new health center.
The 680 acres will remain titled under the United States but held in trust for the Spirit Lake Nation, granting specific benefits, protections, and limitations typical of such arrangements.
Initially transferred from the Bureau of Indian Affairs to grow hay for bison feeding at White Horse Hill National Game Preserve in 1959, this land now returns to serve different purposes under tribal management.
