The Mille Lacs Band released a statement from Susan Klapel, Mille Lacs Band Commissioner of Natural Resources and Environment today on the state's decision to continue to allow walleye fishing after the quota set for angler's was reached.
"The Mille Lacs Band remains firmly opposed to the State’s decision to violate its agreement with the tribes that set a limit of 28,600 pounds for the angler’s share of the 2016 harvest. While we review the data and methodology that the State used to justify breaking the agreement with tribes, we remain deeply concerned that this political decision will have a negative impact on the biological future of the walleye population in Mille Lacs Lake.
While the impacts on walleye are yet to be determined, the impact on the relationship between tribes and the State of Minnesota is clear – it damages our ability to trust the State of Minnesota to keep its word in negotiations, and to co-manage the lake based on sound science.
Mille Lacs Lake is crying for relief. The State’s reckless decision to exceed its quota not only disrespects the sacrifices that tribal members have made by foregoing their harvest opportunities, it also has the potential to have disastrous effects on a lake in desperate need of recovery.
We are consulting with the other tribes with 1837 harvest rights on Mille Lacs about what steps to take in response to the State’s actions. We will protect the lake and her resources for generations to come. All options are on the table."
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Mille Lacs Band Commissioner of Natural Resources and Environment
