MN Senate hears testimony about bill that would transfer ownership of White Earth State Forest

The Minnesota Senate Committee on Environment, Climate and Legacy heard testimony from area entities about Senate bill SF 3480 which would transfer ownership of White Earth State Forest from the State Government to White Earth Nation. The committee heard testimony from those in support and opposition of the bill, including White Earth Nation Chairman Michael Fairbanks who spoke in support of the bill. Fairbanks gives his reasoning on why he and the White Earth RBC are backing the passing of this bill. 

One party that spoke in opposition of the bill was Mahnomen County, who had Commissioner David Geray testify on their behalf. Geray said this land transfer would hurt Mahnomen County.

Becker County Commissioner Barry Nelson shares similar beliefs and said that the Becker County Commission also opposes SF 3480. 

For the full session of testimonies and discussion on SF 3480 go to the Minnesota Senate Media Services YouTube page.