Category: Press Releases

PSA Tribal Broadband Modernization Project Construction Travel Impacts on CO Hwy 151

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.0100

Tribal Council Affairs – 970.563.2319

FOR RELEASE: September 23, 2022

Tribal Broadband Modernization Project Construction Travel Impacts on CO Hwy 151

Project News: Bonfire Engineering will begin construction on two separate sections as outlined in Phase I of the tribal broadband project. The first section will begin at the intersection of CO Highway 172 and CO Highway 151, heading east on CO Highway 151.

Where: Crews will start on construction at the intersection of CO Highway 172 and CO Highway 151 working east on CO Highway 151 to mile marker 12. Construction will take place along the shoulder of the roadway. Please see attached map.

What: The broadband project will include trenching, boring, and plowing to lay fiber, as well as reclamation and seeding. Construction vehicles and fiber spools will be visible on the shoulder.

When: Construction will begin on Friday, September 23, 2022, and conclude on Wednesday, November 23, 2022. Hours of operation will be from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Travel Impact: Traffic lanes will be narrowed on both CO Highway 172. Motorists will be required to reduce speeds and travel safely around the construction taking place on the side of the road. Please remember to slow down in construction zones, eliminate distractions and drive with extra caution. Motorists are also urged to watch for ­­workers and equipment along the roadway.

In the event of an emergency or to report a reckless driver, please contact Southern Ute Police Department by dialing (970) 563-4401.

To find more information about the Tribal Broadband Modernization Project, please visit the project website at https://www.southernute-nsn.gov/broadband-modernization-project/

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Southern Ute Tribal Council Reaffirms Significance of Tribal Sovereignty

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.0100

Lindsay Box – 970.563.2313

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 22, 2022

 

Southern Ute Tribal Council Reaffirms Significance of Tribal Sovereignty

Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The Southern Ute Tribal Council shares their approved Statement on Sovereignty via Resolution No. 2022-126. The Tribal Council’s Statement on Sovereignty arises out of recent events that are an affront to the sovereignty of all tribes in the United States.   The Supreme Court ruling on Oklahoma v. Castro-Huerta undermines the true definition of sovereignty, and restrains Tribes’ ability to govern themselves, and ultimately protect tribal members and resources. This is the most significant threat to Tribal sovereignty in many years. Tribal Council believes the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s Statement on Sovereignty illustrates the tribe’s position on this threat to tribal sovereignty and governance.

“The Statement on Sovereignty reasserts the foundation for which the Tribe operates and governs itself. The Tribe will continue to fight to protect its inherent sovereignty which our past Ute leaders fought to preserve through treaties and declared by federal law in exchange for the land stolen and the attempted eradication of our Ute culture and language.” stated Chairman Melvin J. Baker.

The Tribal Council’s Statement on Sovereignty begins by emphasizing that the Tribe’s sovereignty is inherent, and it asserts how the Tribe exercises sovereignty now and into the future:

Southern Ute Indian Tribe

Statement on Sovereignty

The Southern Ute Indian Tribe is a sovereign and will remain a sovereign. The Mouache and Kaputa bands have retained their sovereignty through European settlement, the formation of the United States, the establishment of the Reservation, and the creation of the State of Colorado. The Tribe’s sovereign authority was not conferred on it by the federal government; rather, its authority is inherent, having always existed and having never been extinguished. The Tribe exercises its sovereignty daily by operating the tribal government; exercising jurisdiction within the exterior boundaries of the Southern Ute Indian Reservation; overseeing its current territory; regulating and providing for the tribal membership; and acting on a government-to-government basis with other sovereigns, including the United States, the State of Colorado, and other tribal nations.

The Statement on Sovereignty, which will be incorporated into the Tribe’s living governance manual, goes on to prescribe expectations for protecting tribal sovereignty:

Operating as a government, the Tribe is exercising its sovereignty; the Tribe must also be resolute about protecting its sovereignty from infringement. Protecting sovereignty requires vigilance by Tribal Council Members, tribal officials, and tribal employees. To protect against infringement on tribal sovereignty by other governments, the Tribe monitors federal and state legislation; enacts tribal codes, analyzes federal authority before acquiescing to federal regulations, requirements, and inspections; and is strategic in its interactions with other tribal nations, local and state governments, and the federal government.

“As a sovereign nation, we will continue to enhance the Tribe’s economic development and preserve our culture as we have in the past by working with our neighbors, solely on a government-to-government basis, not as a subordinate party.”

The Statement on Sovereignty is part of a larger effort by the Tribal Council to establish a living governance document that is designed to define roles and responsibilities, oversight functions, and the decision-making process for the benefit of the Tribe, its tribal members, tribal officials, tribal employees, and delegates.

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20220719 – Southern Ute Tribal Council Reaffirms Significance of Tribal Sovereignty (FINAL)

Southern Ute Reservation Initiates Stage I Fire Restrictions

BIA

NEWS RELEASE

SOUTHERN UTE RESERVATION INITIATES STAGE I FIRE RESTRICTIONS

Ignacio, CO, June 14, 2021

Due to the current high temperatures, dry fuel conditions and the occurrence of recent wildland fires, Stage I fire restrictions have been implemented for all trust lands throughout the Southern Ute Indian Reservation. Everyone on reservation land is asked to be very cautious and use common sense with fire this time of year.

Stage I Fire Restrictions prohibits acts for the general public, commercial operators and industrial oil and gas operators performing work on the Southern Ute Reservation.

The following acts are prohibited for the general public on reservation lands:

  1. OPEN BURNING. Burning of trash and/or yard waste is prohibited.
  2. AGRICULTURAL BURNING. Burning of crop land, fields, rangeland, debris burning, slash piles, prescribed burning and weed burning are prohibited.
  3. CAMP FIRES. Building, maintaining or using a warming fire or campfire outside of officially designated or developed camp sites is prohibited.  The fire restrictions do not include charcoal fires (in suitable containers) for barbeques or fires for sweat ceremonies, however, such fires are not to be left unattended and are to be fully extinguished after use.
  4. Possession, discharging or use of any type of fireworks is prohibited.

Commercial and Industrial restrictions can be obtained from the BIA Fire Office at 575 County Road 517 or by calling (970) 563-4571.

Anyone violating the provisions of this fire ban may be subject to prosecution outlined in the Southern Ute Indian Criminal Code.

The Restrictions will become effective at 06:00 AM, June 16, 2021 and will remain until conditions improve.

Chairman Baker selects Olguin to lead Southern Ute Permanent Fund

southern ute indian tribe banner

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.0100

Lindsay J. Box – 970.759.1494

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 11, 2021 – 1:00 P.M.

Chairman Baker selects Olguin to lead Southern Ute Permanent Fund

Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Southern Ute Tribal Chairman Melvin J. Baker has appointed James M. “Mike” Olguin as the Executive Officer over the Southern Ute Permanent Fund.

“The role and responsibility of Executive Officer is vast and requires an individual with exceptional communication, time management, conflict resolution, problem solving skills while also working as a liaison between the tribal membership, tribal departments, and the tribal leadership,” stated Chairman Baker. “As we begin the new year under a new Chairman and Vice Chairman, I also wanted to begin with sharing my appointment of a new Executive Officer. It is important to me to take the necessary time to select the right individual for this role.”

The prominent position provides administrative support and guidance to Tribal Departments in accordance with Tribal Policies and Procedures and legal requirements as delegated by the Tribal Chairman; ensuring that the tribal membership receive quality services in an equitable manner and within established program guidelines and approved budgetary limitations. The office must also work to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the Department plans and programs to ensure that they are achieving the purpose for which they were intended.

Olguin enters the office with a large amount of experience. He served on Tribal Council a total of 9 years, including three years as Vice Chairman and two years as Treasurer, and has served twice as Executive Officer under Chairman Leonard C. Burch and Chairman Clement J. Frost.

“I take this appointment with great honor and humbleness with a clear drive and motivation to serve the people of our tribe in administering and managing the affairs of the Permanent Fund to the level of expectations of the Chairman, and Tribal Council, utilizing the work of the professional staff and their charge in carrying out the duties that serve the membership. It is my intent to ensure we have an administration that is progressive yet accountable in its day to day functions and tasks. I look forward to the challenges but know there are a lot of hard-working teams that will assist me in carrying out my duties,” stated Olguin.

Olguin has also worked as the Vice President of Regulatory Management for Sky Ute Sand and Gravel, Director of Natural Resources, and Supervisor of Wildlife Conservation Office. Olguin also brings a plethora of experience from serving on the following tribal committees: Growth Fund Management Committee, Red Cedar Gathering Company Management Committee, Permanent Fund Budget Committee, Southern Ute Indian Tribe Audit Committee, Growth Fund Tribal Member Employment Advisory Committee, and Permanent Fund Credit Committee among others.

“I believe Mr. Olguin will work alongside Tribal Council and my office in the best interests of the tribal membership and the tribal organization. His experience makes him an ideal candidate for the role as Executive Officer and provides him with both the knowledge and ability to implement my vision of progress,” expressed Chairman Baker. “I would also like to thank Mrs. Barbara Scott-Rarick and her commitment to a smooth transition as well as an extension of her appointment while I pursued a successor.”

Chairman Baker will appoint a second Executive Officer in the coming weeks.

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The Southern Ute Tribal Court has issued Administrative Order 2020-03, modifying their operating services until further notice.

The Southern Ute Tribal Court has issued Administrative Order 2020-03, modifying their operating services until further notice. The attached Administrative Order is effective Monday, November 16, 2020. The Southern Ute Tribal Court will only hear cases that directly affect public safety or are mandated to be heard pursuant to the Southern Ute Tribal Code. Please call the Tribal Court’s communication line at (970) 563-0240, for updated information.

Please click on the following link for more detailed information regarding this order:

Administrative Order 03 COVID.pdf

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Southern Ute Indian Tribe provides status update on reopening plans

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

Christine Sage, Chairman – 970.563.0100

Amy Barry, SUIT IMT PIO – 970.563.2281

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 30, 2020 – 9:45 A.M.

 

Southern Ute Indian Tribe provides status update on reopening plans

 

Southern Ute Indian Reservation, Colo. – The Southern Ute Indian Tribe Incident Management Team (IMT) has been working hard over the last few weeks to develop reopening plans to implement a phased return to work for tribal employees.  The IMT has continued to closely monitor national, regional, and local increases in demand to relax social distancing restrictions, closures, and modifications to work practices.  We understand the pressure is rooted in concern over the emotional and economic toll caused by the pandemic.  Individuals may have experienced frustration and even grief about the loss of opportunity to enjoy the “normal” activities of life. While we continue to take the utmost caution, it is important that we prepare for the “new normal,” beginning with plans to reopen when the health risks to the tribal membership and staff are drastically reduced.

 

Reopening plans are currently in draft form.  A final plan will be approved before relaxation of any orders or work modifications could begin.  There is no guaranteed timeline for this event, and the phased reopening is dependent on the status and spread of COVID-19. The planning process is a proactive preparation and no implementation schedule has been developed or approved.

 

Many state and local jurisdictions have made the decision to reopen and return to normal activity levels more quickly than the Southern Ute IMT and Southern Ute Indian Tribal Council.  A disturbing trend has begun to emerge nationally over the last 2 weeks.  More than half of states are experiencing significant increases in the number of new cases and hospitalizations due to COVID-19.  It is well documented that Arizona is rapidly approaching a crisis level in both those metrics, setting records for new cases almost daily.  In the last week, both Colorado and New Mexico have shown increases in new cases as compared to the previous week.  The United States, as a whole, has continued to see a rise in new cases.

 

Neither Tribal Council, nor the IMT, can ignore these trends; therefore, we must reiterate the tribal “Stay at Home” Order is still in effect until further notice.  The highest priority of Tribal Council and the Southern Ute IMT is the health and welfare of tribal members and staff.   The Tribe is quite fortunate to have avoided the virus and its effects, both known and unknown, unlike individuals who reside in San Juan County, NM or on the Navajo Nation.  A few hastily made decisions could potentially have a devastating impact to the Tribe in a matter of days, or weeks. The Southern Ute IMT has been scrutinizing both national and regional trends in new cases and hospitalizations, which appear to be correlated with reopening too early and failing to maintain safe hygiene practices and expectations for social distancing and appropriate face mask use.

 

Both the Tribal Council and IMT would hope the tribal membership and staff enjoy the upcoming holiday, but must emphasize that everyone do so safely. Please wear face masks in public.  Wash and sanitize your hands frequently.  Avoid group activities.  Stay at home when possible.  Maintain social distance of at least six feet when you must go out.  Please remember we all play a part in the overall safety of others.

 

The Southern Ute IMT has, and will continue to collect, organize, and evaluate all pertinent data on a daily basis to make safe and informed decisions. When the data clearly shows that we can relax the “Stay at Home” Order and implement an approved return to work program safely, we will clearly communicate any reopening plan and then execute said plan with prowess. The Southern Ute IMT will also announce notable changes in the Tribe’s position on reopening and any other important COVID-19 information. Please continue to observe the tribal websites, Southern Ute Drum website, tribal social media and listen to KSUT Tribal Radio for updated information.

 

If you have questions related to COVID-19 or modified tribal operations, please call the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s COVID-19 Call Center at 970.563.0214. The Call Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. The Call Center will be closed Friday, July 3, 2020 in observance of the Independence Day holiday.

 

If you are sick, self-isolate. If your symptoms worsen call your healthcare provider. Tribal members and Southern Ute Health Center patients can call the Health Center at 970.563.4581 to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins will not be permitted for the health and safety of patients and staff. Please first call to schedule your appointment and then call upon your arrival.

 

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation during these challenging times.  Please remain safe.

 

 

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20200630 – Southern Ute Indian Tribe provides status update on reopening plans v3

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Crews strengthen fire line, Six Shooter Fire is 75% contained

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

BIA Fire Management – 970.563.4571

Lindsay J. Box, PIO – 970.563.2313

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, June 19, 2020

 

 

Crews strengthen fire line, Six Shooter Fire is 75% contained

 

 

Ignacio, CO – The Six Shooter Fire was reported on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation at approximately 15:30, June 16, 2020. The fire is located in the Six Shooter Canyon.

 

The Six Shooter Fire is now 75% contained Crews spent the day securing the perimeter of the fire by increasing hand and dozer lines. Tomorrow, crews will continue strengthening the control lines and mopping up the interior.

 

The Durango Interagency IMT 3 will maintain management of the Six Shooter Fire and multiple agencies continue to work to fully suppress the fire. There are a total of 110 personnel working to suppress the fire. Ground resources include fire personnel, 2 crews, 4 modules, 7 type-6 fire engines, and one dozer. Air resources will be ordered as needed.

 

Smoke from the Six Shooter Fire has improved. To monitor the air quality related to the Six Shooter Fire, please go the Southern Ute Indian Tribe Environmental Programs Division Ambient Monitoring page at: https://www.southernute-nsn.gov/justice-and-regulatory/epd/air-quality/ambient-monitoring/

 

The Tribe is working with oil and gas operators to monitor operations near the impacted fire area.

 

As a reminder, Stage 1 fire restrictions were enacted for Southern Ute Indian Reservation on Monday, May 11, 2020 and will remain in effect until conditions improve.

 

Stage I Fire Restrictions prohibits acts for thjhjhe general public, commercial operators and industrial oil and gas operators performing work on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation.

 

 

STAGE I

General Public:

 

 

Prohibited acts:

 

 

  1. OPEN BURNING.  Burning of trash and/or yard waste is prohibited.

 

  1. AGRICULTURAL BURNING.  Burning of crop land, fields, rangeland, debris burning, slash piles, prescribed burning and weed burning are prohibited.

 

  1. CAMP FIRES.  Building, maintaining or using a warming fire or campfire outside of officially designated or developed camp sites is prohibited.  The fire restrictions do not include charcoal fires (in suitable containers) for barbeques or fires for sweat ceremonies, however, such fires are not to be left unattended and are to be fully extinguished after use.

 

  1. Possession, discharging or use of any type or fireworks is prohibited.

 

Commercial and Industrial restrictions can be obtained from the BIA Fire Office at 575 County Road 517 or by calling (970) 563-4571.

 

Anyone violating the provisions of this fire ban may be subject to prosecution outlined in the Southern Ute Indian Criminal Code.

 

For more information on the Six Shooter Fire, please visit the Southern Ute Indian Tribe website, and follow the Southern Ute Indian Tribe on social media.

 

To report fires contact:

DURANGO ZONE DISPATCH (970) 385-1324

 

For more information or to report Fire Restriction Violations contact:

BIA FIRE MANAGEMENT (970) 563-4571 OR SOUTHERN UTE POLICE DEPARTMENT (970) 563-4401

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Six Shooter Fire reaches 60% containment

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

BIA Fire Management – 970.563.4571

Lindsay J. Box, PIO – 970.563.2313

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, June 18, 2020

 

 

Six Shooter Fire reaches 60% containment

 

 

Ignacio, CO – The Six Shooter Fire was reported on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation at approximately 15:30, June 16, 2020. The fire is located in the Six Shooter Canyon.

 

Crews have suppressed the Six Shooter Fire to 60% containment. Personnel spent the day constructing fire lines which held the fire to no new acreage. The Six Shooter Fire has burnt a total of 224 acres.

 

The Durango Interagency IMT 3 will maintain management of the Six Shooter Fire and multiple agencies continue to work to fully suppress the fire. There are a total of 110 personnel working to suppress the fire. Ground resources include fire personnel, 2 crews, 4 modules, 7 type-6 fire engines, and one dozer. Air resources will be ordered as needed.

 

Smoke from the Six Shooter Fire has improved. To monitor the air quality related to the Six Shooter Fire, please go the Southern Ute Indian Tribe Environmental Programs Division Ambient Monitoring page at: https://www.southernute-nsn.gov/justice-and-regulatory/epd/air-quality/ambient-monitoring/

 

The Tribe is working with oil and gas operators to monitor operations near the impacted fire area.

 

As a reminder, Stage 1 fire restrictions were enacted for Southern Ute Indian Reservation on Monday, May 11, 2020 and will remain in effect until conditions improve.

 

Stage I Fire Restrictions prohibits acts for the general public, commercial operators and industrial oil and gas operators performing work on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation.

 

 

STAGE I

General Public:

Prohibited acts:

 

 

  1. OPEN BURNING. Burning of trash and/or yard waste is prohibited.

 

  1. AGRICULTURAL BURNING. Burning of crop land, fields, rangeland, debris burning, slash piles, prescribed burning and weed burning are prohibited.

 

  1. CAMP FIRES. Building, maintaining or using a warming fire or campfire outside of officially designated or developed camp sites is prohibited.  The fire restrictions do not include charcoal fires (in suitable containers) for barbeques or fires for sweat ceremonies, however, such fires are not to be left unattended and are to be fully extinguished after use.

 

  1. Possession, discharging or use of any type or fireworks is prohibited.

 

Commercial and Industrial restrictions can be obtained from the BIA Fire Office at 575 County Road 517 or by calling (970) 563-4571.

 

Anyone violating the provisions of this fire ban may be subject to prosecution outlined in the Southern Ute Indian Criminal Code.

 

For more information on the Six Shooter Fire, please visit the Southern Ute Indian Tribe website, and follow the Southern Ute Indian Tribe on social media.

 

To report fires contact:

DURANGO ZONE DISPATCH (970) 385-1324

 

For more information or to report Fire Restriction Violations contact:

BIA FIRE MANAGEMENT (970) 563-4571 OR SOUTHERN UTE POLICE DEPARTMENT (970) 563-4401

 

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