Tribal Members – Southern Ute Indian Tribe

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For Immediate Release: Southern Ute Indian Tribe Welcomes Chairman Christine Sage

August 28, 2026 / August 28, 2026 by sbegay

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Christine Sage, Chairman – 970.563.2320 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 28, 2026 Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The Southern Ute Indian Tribe (Tribe) officially welcomed Chairman Christine Sage during the Inauguration Ceremony held this morning in Tribal Council Chambers. Chairman Sage was surrounded by family, friends, Tribal Members, and guests as she took the oath of office. Attendees included dignitaries from the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, the Jicarilla Apache Nation, La Plata County, Archuleta County, the office of U.S. Senator Michael Bennet, the Town of Ignacio, and the Ignacio School District. Their presence reflected the strong intergovernmental relationships and support for Chairman Sage’s leadership. Chairman Sage was first elected as Chairman in December 2017. A lifelong resident of the Southern Ute Indian Reservation, she is the daughter of the late Chairman Christopher Baker and Esther Coyote-Baker. Her election marked a historic milestone, as she is the only woman to serve as Chairman of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe for two terms. “I am deeply honored by the trust placed in me to serve as Chairman. Throughout my campaign, I spoke about the importance of communication, integrity, experience, and sustainability, and those values […]

Inauguration Ceremony | Chairman

August 18, 2026 / August 28, 2026 by sbegay

Maykh Panakwa! (You are invited) to save the date for Friday, August 28, 2026, at 10:00 AM, for the Inauguration Ceremony for the Chairman, to be held in the Tribal Council Chambers at 356 Ouray Drive, Ignacio, CO 81137. Please note, the incoming Chairman will not be determined until the Run Off Special Election concludes on Thursday, August 27, 2026. This term will run through November 30, 2026, completing the remainder of Chairman Melvin J. Baker’s term. This event will take place in person but will be live streamed via WebEx: https://bit.ly/4y8GK79 If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Tribal Council Affairs at 970-563-2313. Toghoyaqh!

For Immediate Release: Tribal Council Opposes the La Plata Canyon Block Cave Mining Project

August 18, 2026 / August 18, 2026 by sbegay

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Marvin Pinnecoose, Chairman – 970.563.2402 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 18, 2026 Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Metallic Minerals U.S. Inc. is presently conducting community outreach regarding its La Plata Canyon Block Cave Mining Project, a project designed to explore the potential for mining of copper and other minerals in La Plata County. This project is currently in the exploratory stage. However, as proposed, it will cover 19 square miles (approximately 12,300 acres) of the La Plata Mountains. Across southwest Colorado, community members have understandably expressed concern over this proposed project due to its most likely impact on air and water quality and recreational opportunities. The Tribe agrees with those who recognize its detrimental impact. While this project is still in early stages, the proposed scale and nature of the proposal raise serious concerns regarding its effect on the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s (“Tribe”) Treaty rights, cultural resources and access, the environment, and overall interests. As Metallic Minerals acknowledges on its website, the Tribe maintains “deep historical and cultural ties” to the region and states it is committed to “respect[ing] the local Native governments.” The proposed mine and infrastructure is located in […]

Got Pagu Fishing Trip

August 4, 2026 / August 10, 2026 by sbegay

Council Member Andrew Gallegos, the Division of Wildlife, Cultural Preservation Department, and the Southern Ute Boys & Girls Club invite all Tribal and community youth to join us for a day of fishing, activities, and outdoor fun on Friday, August 7, 2026 at Molas Lake Come enjoy a fin-tastic day on the water with friends and family! Lunch and transportation will be provided. To sign up, call 970-563-2313 Participants will meet at the Leonard C. Burch Building parking lot at 6:30 a.m., with departure scheduled for 7:00 a.m. Lunch, snacks, and beverages will be provided. If your child has any allergies, dietary restrictions, or special medical needs, please let us know when you call. To view the full agenda, please see the PDF below under page two. To help streamline the check-in process, please complete the waiver form using the following link for each attendee: SUIT Got Pagu Waiver Fishing License Information Youth ages 15 and under do not need a fishing license. Participants ages 16 and older who plan to fish must obtain a fishing license through Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Southern Ute Tribal Members needing assistance should contact the Division of Wildlife at 970-563-0130. Don’t let this opportunity get […]

Tribal Office Closure Notice 08/03/2026

July 27, 2026 / August 4, 2026 by sbegay

In observance of Sun Dance, the Permanent Fund, Growth Fund, and SUSS offices will be closed on Monday, August 3, 2026. Normal business hours will resume on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. May the Creator give blessing and strength to the Sun Dancers and their families.

For Immediate Release: Leadership Continuity Maintained as Tribe Prepares for Run-Off Election

July 13, 2026 / July 13, 2026 by sbegay

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Marvin Pinnecoose, Chairman – 970.563.2402 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 13, 2026 Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Tribal Council reaffirmed Marvin Pinnecoose as Acting Chairman this afternoon through Resolution 2026-129, providing continued leadership and stability as the Southern Ute Indian Tribe (“Tribe”) completes the election process. The action follows the Special Election held last Friday, which resulted in a tie between candidates, Christine Sage and Adam Red. Election results were certified this morning in Tribal Council Chambers with the Election Board. Following certification, it was determined that the Special Run Off Election will be held on Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The election process was initiated because more than six (6) months remained in former Chairman Melvin J. Baker’s term. The Special Runoff Election is being conducted in compliance with the Election Code and the Constitution. Chairman Pinnecoose expressed, “I am honored to continue serving our Tribe and remain committed to ensuring stability and continued progress for the Tribal Membership. I strongly encourage all eligible voters to participate in the upcoming Special Run Off Election as we continue working together for the future of our people.” To […]

Tribal Office Closure Notice 07/03/2026

June 23, 2026 / July 6, 2026 by sbegay

In observance of Independence Day, the Permanent Fund, Growth Fund, and SUSS offices will be closed on Friday, July 3, 2026. Normal business hours will resume on Monday, July 6, 2026. Have a safe and fun holiday with your family and loved ones. Thank you!

2026 SUIT Fire Restrictions

June 23, 2026 / July 29, 2026 by sbegay

Due to recent rains and higher humidities, Stage II fire restrictions have been rescinded for all trustlands throughout the Southern Ute Indian Reservation. Stage I fire restrictions remain in place effective July 22, 2026, at 6:00 AM due to the spotty nature of the recent rain and where some areas remain dry. The overall drought conditions still create the potential for large fire development, and any ignition could grow rapidly. STAGE I General Public Prohibited Acts: To report fires contact: DURANGO ZONE DISPATCH (970) 385-1324 For more info or to report Fire Restriction Violations contact: BIA FIRE MANAGEMENT (970) 563-4571 OR SOUTHERN UTE POLICE DEPARTMENT (970) 563-4401

COYAC Tribal Youth Seats

June 22, 2026 / July 6, 2026 by sbegay

Calling all future leaders! Are you 14–19 and love The West Wing? Step into real-world government! The Colorado Youth Advisory Council (COYAC) is now accepting applications—deadline July 5. Two seats are reserved for:• Southern Ute Indian Tribe• Ute Mountain Ute Tribe 💡 Learn more: coyac.org/apply📧 Apply by emailing: director@coyac.orgDon’t miss your chance to make your voice heard!

For Immediate Release: Incident at Sky Ute Casino Resort

June 18, 2026 / June 18, 2026 by sbegay

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Marvin Pinnecoose, Chairman – 970.563.2402 Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 18, 2026 Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Early this morning at approximately 6:10 a.m., La Plata County received a report of suspicious activity in the east parking lot of Sky Ute Casino Resort, near the bowling alley. While the initial investigation indicates this matter is not criminal, the Southern Ute Indian Tribe is cooperating fully with all regional law enforcement agencies. The Southern Ute Indian Tribe continues to collaborate with regional law enforcement, including the City of Farmington, La Plata County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI Denver Field Office. The investigation remains ongoing under the lead of regional law enforcement partners in connection with other cases. Special thank you to our staff with the Southern Ute Police Department, Tribal Rangers, Division of Gaming, Sky Ute Casino Resort Surveillance, and Southern Ute Shared Services. ###

Category: Tribal Members