06/19/2026
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A historic land transfer is returning thousands of acres to an Indigenous nation.
The Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa is celebrating the return of approximately 3,400 acres of land known as the Cloquet Forestry Center, located entirely within the boundaries of the Fond du Lac Reservation.
For the Band, the transfer is about far more than ownership.
"This is not only the return of land," the Band said in a statement. "It is the return of even more responsibility. It is the return of a relative."
The land transfer was formalized through Minnesota's state bonding bill and involved cooperation between the Fond du Lac Band, the University of Minnesota, state lawmakers, Governor Tim Walz, and other officials.
Tribal leaders described the agreement as a significant step for sovereignty, stewardship, and the long-term care of their homeland.
The land sits within the reservation established under the 1854 La Pointe Treaty and has long been considered part of the Band's traditional territory. While ownership will transfer to the Band, the University of Minnesota will continue operating the Cloquet Forestry Center during a transition period as both sides work out long-term management agreements.
The partnership is expected to support forestry education, environmental research, youth programs, cultural teachings, wildfire stewardship, and climate resilience efforts.
Chairman Bruce Savage said the land has always been connected to the people of the Fond du Lac Band and their responsibilities as Anishinaabe.
The return is part of a broader movement sometimes referred to as "Land Back," which seeks the restoration of Indigenous stewardship and control over traditional lands.
Supporters say such transfers can strengthen Tribal sovereignty, improve environmental management, preserve cultural heritage, and create opportunities for collaborative conservation.
Learn more:
"Land Back: Fond du Lac Band Celebrates Return of 3,400 Acres in Historic Transfer." Native News Online.
📸Credit: Fond du La of Lake Superior Chippewa
