State-tribal consultations are an integral part of respecting government-to-government relations
Members of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, Colorado Commission of Indian Affairs staff, and Colorado Department of Agriculture staff after consultation in Ignacio, Colorado. (Courtesy photo)
TOWAOC & IGNACIO, Colorado – Last week, Commissioner Kate Greenberg and Colorado The Department of Agriculture participated in its first state-tribal consultation with the Mountain Ute Tribe and the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, in partnership with Colorado Indian Affairs Commission staff.
“I am grateful to the tribal councils and tribal staff of both the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and the Southern Ute Indian Tribe for their openness and interest in how we can strengthen our partnerships. There are many areas where our work overlaps and I am eager to continue finding opportunities for collaboration Colorado Agriculture Commissioner Kate Greenberg. “The CDA is committed to having a thoughtful discussion to find ways to partner between our agency and tribal governments, including ways in which we can support the work of tribes through financial and technical assistance.”
“The partnership is beneficial to the Department and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe as we envision our future for the grocery store and the future of agriculture on the Ute Mountain Ute Reservation,” said Ute Mountain Ute Tribe Chairman. “Water is key to the future of agriculture, and traditionally, water is life for Native American tribes and everyone involved in agribusiness. As we plan for the future, we need to look at partnerships between all agricultural businesses, and have a seat at the table for win-win projects and food sovereignty.”
“In cooperation with Colorado “Department of Agriculture, we have embarked on a journey of meaningful engagement and communication,” said Melvin J. Baker, Chairman of the Southern Ute Indian Tribes. “Together, we can secure a prosperous and sustainable agricultural future that honors the unique stories, cultures and traditions of farmers and ranchers.”
“As stewards of this land since time immemorial, the Southern Ute Indian Tribe remains committed to continued cooperation with our sister tribe, the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, and the Ute State. Coloradosaid Southern Ute Indian Tribe Vice President Lorelei Cloud. “Together, we will find solutions and build partnerships that ensure a sustainable future for our communities.”
The Department and Tribes covered various topics, including Department and Tribal partnerships, the establishment of a Tribal Liaison Center within the Department, and grant and funding opportunities available to Tribes related to agriculture. CDA and CCIA staff had the opportunity to tour the Ute Mountain Ute Farm and Ranch. The Southern Ute Indian Tribe shared information about the tribe's agricultural program and the Pine River Indian Irrigation Project.
State-tribal consultations are integral to respecting and honoring the government-to-state relationship Colorado It is shared with the Mountain Ute Tribe and the Southern Ute Indian Tribe. Consultation is an open and mutual exchange of information and is an integral part of effective cooperation, participation and informed decision-making, with the ultimate goal of reaching consensus on issues. Consultation is about developing a relationship based on trust, and making an effort to understand and take into account any implications that any undertaking may have on the consulting parties.
Members of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, Colorado Officers of the Indian Affairs Commission, and Colorado Department of Agriculture staff after consultation in Towauk, Colorado (Courtesy photo)
– Colorado Department of Agriculture
