ODFW Commission to consider Grand Ronde MOU Aug. 4

If you go

ODFW Commission meeting

When: 8 a.m. Friday, Aug. 4. Grand Ronde’s agreement will be considered at 1:30 p.m.

Where: ODFW headquarters, 4034 Fairview Industrial Drive Southeast, Salem.

More information: Call 503-947-6044 or visit dfw.state.or.us/agency/commission/minutes/23/08_Aug/index.asp

By Danielle Harrison

Smoke Signals editor

After it was abruptly pulled from the agenda at a June meeting in Newport, the Tribe’s memorandum of understanding to expand its ceremonial hunting and fishing areas is up for consideration once again.

The Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife Commission will meet at its Salem headquarters on Friday, Aug. 4, to decide whether to approve the agreement with Grand Ronde. It will be discussed at 1:30 p.m. as per the meeting agenda.

The Tribe’s proposed memorandum of understanding, which was up for consideration at ODFW’s June meeting, was postponed after two other Tribes – Warm Springs and Umatilla – voiced concerns that it would interfere with their treaty rights.

Grand Ronde has been working for years to have its hunting and fishing rights restored after being forced into a consent decree with the state to get its Reservation approved in 1988. During the Tribe’s efforts to secure Reservation lands, the only path forward at the time was to sign the decree.  

Various Tribal Council members have encouraged Tribal members who would like to give input to attend the meeting, either virtually or in-person.

The topic was discussed at length during the Legislative Action Committee meeting on Tuesday, July 25, after the council had met with members of the Warm Springs Tribal Council in an effort to resolve differences prior to the hearing.

“It was civil, cordial and professional, but we didn’t resolve our differences,” Vice Chair Chris Mercier said. “As far as I know, we’re still moving forward (with the agreement) so please come and show your support.”

“Our people are already hunting and fishing in our ceded lands,” Tribal Council member Kathleen George said. “This agreement will allow us to manage that in partnership with the state. We would love to see you there in Salem.”

Those who want to give virtual testimony must register at least 48 hours in advance. In-person registration will be done at the meeting.