TRIBE FIRST – The Natural Resources Department administers programs for the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) with the intention of protecting, preserving, and enhancing natural resources on the L’Anse, Marquette, and Ontonagon reservations as well as the western Upper Peninsula of Michigan also referred to as the 1842 ceded territory.

RESOURCE RICH – The L’Anse Indian Reservation consists of approximately 59,000 acres. There are approximately 19 miles of Lake Superior shoreline, 3,000 acres of wetlands, and 80 miles of rivers within five watersheds that are either wholly or partially within the L’Anse Reservation boundaries. The Village of Baraga and community of Zeba both lie entirely within the Reservation boundaries, while the Village of L’Anse lies partially within the Reservation. The Ontonagon Indian Reservation is located in Ontonagon County along the Lake Superior shoreline, is approximately 3,000 acres in size, has about 2 miles of Lake Superior shoreline, and includes three watersheds partially within Reservation boundaries. KBIC also administers approximately 200 acres of land holdings and housing in Marquette County. The L’Anse Indian Reservation and the Ontonagon Reservation exterior boundaries are formally recognized by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA).

PROGRAMS – KBIC has an established Natural Resources Department (NRD) which includes natural resource, fisheries, wildlife, and environmental programs under the direction of the Natural Resources Director, who in turn takes direction from the Chief Executive Officer and the Tribal Council. The department is responsible for assisting KBIC with protection, preservation, enhancement, and mitigation of natural resources and the environment, an obligation which it fulfills through a variety of programs. Funding for the Natural Resource Department is provided by KBIC, EPA, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Indian Health Service (IHS), Department of Health and Human Services, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and other sources.

VISION – A tribe that preserves the Anishinaabe culture, advances economic diversity, provides outstanding opportunities to enhance independence, and promotes the health and well-being of our community.

MISSION – To provide exceptional services for our membership; a safe, positive work environment for employees and sustain economic prosperity, while protecting our sovereignty and preserving our culture for future generations.