Author: sbegay

Sign Up for the Tribal Member Experience!

Southern Ute Tribal Members stay connected with news, departments, and resources by signing up for the Tribal Member Experience!

Please note account holders must be enrolled in the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and be 18 years of age or older.

To create a new account, please follow these steps:
1. Go to the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s website at
https://www.southernute-nsn.gov/
2. Select “Members” at the top of the screen
3. Select “I need an account”
4. Complete the Tribal Member Access Request Form & click Submit

The request will be sent to TIS Vital Statistics for verification. SUSS will approve your account.

The login credentials will be sent to the email listed on the form. You may then create your password.

If you already have an account and need help resetting your password:
1. Please visit https://www.southernute-nsn.gov/tmx/
2. Under “Getting Started Resources” select “Password Reset Instructions” and follow the guide.
3. Direct link: https://www.southernute-nsn.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2023/01/TMx-Member-Website-Password-Reset.pdf
Please do not create a new account.

For information, contact Tribal Council Affairs at 970-563-2313 or TIS Vital Statistics at 970-563-2248.
For technical assistance with existing accounts, contact SUDEP at 970-563-5555.

– Summer Begay, Communication Specialist

For Immediate Release: Strands of Strength: The Indian Citizenship Act 100th Anniversary 06022024

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320
Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 2, 2024
Strands of Strength: The Indian Citizenship Act 100th Anniversary
Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Today marks the 100th anniversary of the Indian Citizenship Act, also known as the Snyder Act, a landmark piece of legislation that granted U.S. citizenship to Native Americans born within reservation boundaries. Prior to the Snyder Act, the path to citizenship for Native Americans was a patchwork of treaties, federal policies, and court rulings that varied by Tribe and region.
The Snyder Act, passed on June 2, 1924, was a complex and controversial measure. While it extended citizenship rights, it also aimed to assimilate Native Americans into mainstream American society. This followed a dark period of forced relocation and the establishment of Federal Indian Boarding Schools. Before 1924, paths to citizenship were limited and conditional. Common routes included land cessions, honorable military service, or marriage to a non-Tribal male.
“The Snyder Act was a double-edged sword,” said Chairman Melvin J. Baker. “It offered citizenship on paper, but also sought to dismantle our identity. We were expected to abandon our traditions and languages to fit a mold. True citizenship, however, is about respect, not assimilation. It’s about honoring our shared history and upholding our right to self-determination. This fight for genuine citizenship and recognition continues to this day.”
“Though the path has been long, 100 years of Native American citizenship stands as a testament to our resilience. We acknowledge the challenges that remain, yet we celebrate the vibrant cultures that continue to enrich this land. May the next century be one of true partnership, where the Indigenous spirit and identity thrives in the American story,” said Vice Chairman Lorelei Cloud.
The Permanent Fund Executive Office, Cultural Preservation Department, Tribal Information Services, and Tribal Council Affairs have created an exhibit, Strands of Strength: The Indian Citizenship Act 100th Anniversary. This exhibit is located in the Leonard C. Burch building in the Hall of Warriors. Please stop by Monday to Friday between 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
For more information, please contact Tribal Council Affairs at 970-563-2313.
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-Summer Begay, Communication Specialist

For Immediate Release: Southern Ute Indian Tribe Makes History with USDA to Conserve Natural Resources 05312024

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320
Summer Begay, Communication Specialist – 970.563.2313
Petra Popiel, CO USDA State Public Affairs Specialist – 720.544.2808
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 31, 2024
Southern Ute Indian Tribe Makes History with USDA to Conserve Natural Resources
Southern Ute Indian Reservation – A historic partnership is forging between the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and the United States Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Through the USDA or NRCS Agency’s Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP), the entities have jointly entered an alternative funding arrangement (AFA) to improve rangeland resiliency and health on Tribal lands. This project is funded through the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).
“This is an exciting partnership”, said Clint Evans, NRCS State Conservationist in Colorado. “The Southern Ute Indian Tribe is the first Tribe in the nation to enter into an AFA through CSP. We’re proud of what that means for future relations between NRCS and the Tribe. We also get to play a role and join them as they expand their natural resource conservation journey.”
CSP, a Farm Bill program, builds upon existing conservation efforts while strengthening agricultural operations. “The Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s forward thinking and resource conservation focused mindset made them the perfect candidate for a CSP AFA,” said Liz With, NRCS Assistant State Conservationist for Partnerships in Colorado. “They already implement top tier rangeland management and monitoring practices, and this agreement will assist in maintaining that high standard while also helping to more widely adopt and implement a strategic invasive noxious weed treatment plan over the next five years. That treatment will target species from Colorado noxious species list to improve rangeland health and resiliency in face of the increasing drought conditions.”
“This partnership will assist with improving our land, it will also honor the legacy of stewardship entrusted to us by our ancestors. By working together, we can ensure these rangelands remain healthy and productive for generations to come, all while setting a strong example of Tribal leadership in conservation”, said Chairman Melvin J. Baker of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe.
The scope and magnitude of this historic project is also noteworthy.  The Southern Ute Indian Tribe has agreed to enroll all rangeland acres managed by its Department of Natural Resources, totaling approximately 125,000 acres. Conservation practices implemented will help improve and favor deep rooted, native perennial plants that can help sequester more carbon and build soil health. This partnership represents a tremendous opportunity for the Tribe, NRCS, producers, and the environment as a whole.
For more information about the Natural Resources Conservation Service, its programs, benefits, and opportunities, please visit www.co.nrcs.usda.gov. For more information about this partnership, please contact the Southern Ute Department of Natural Resources at 970-563-2912.
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– Summer Begay, Communication Specialist

SU Tribal Council Affairs: Strands of Strength Exhibit

Strands of Strength
The Indian Citizenship Act
1924-2024 
Through this temporary exhibit, we invite you on a journey to explore the rich history of the Nuuchiu across the decades. A pivotal moment in this story is 1924, with the passage of the Indian Citizenship Act. This Act, while long overdue, marked a significant step towards recognizing the inherent rights of Native Americans.
This exhibit is in the Hall of Warriors at the Leonard C. Burch building.
For more information, please contact Tribal Council Affairs at 970.563.2313.

For Immediate Release: Statement on the passing of Jicarilla Apache Nation President Velarde

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320

Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 14, 2024

Statement on the passing of Jicarilla Apache Nation President Velarde

Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The Southern Ute Indian Tribe is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of President Edward Velarde of the Jicarilla Apache Nation.

President Velarde was a pillar of his community and a dedicated leader who made significant contributions to the Jicarilla Apache Nation and the State of New Mexico throughout his life.  A Vietnam War veteran, he served as President since 2019, guiding the Jicarilla Apache Nation with wisdom and compassion.

The Jicarilla Apache Nation described President Velarde as “not only a leader but also a cherished member of our community, whose kindness, wisdom, and dedication touched the lives of all who knew him.”

Southern Ute Indian Tribe Chairman Melvin J. Baker and Tribal Council offers their condolences, stating, “The Jicarilla Apache Nation is a valued neighbor. We extend our sincere condolences to the family of President Velarde and the entire Jicarilla Apache Nation. President Velarde was a strong believer in the importance of tribal-to-tribal relationships, which he consistently exemplified throughout his leadership.”

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– Summer Begay, Communication Specialist

For Immediate Release: Bear Dance Fire Burn Area Trail Reopening 05142024

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – (970) 563-0100
Summer Begay, Communication Specialist – (970) 563-2313
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 14, 2024
Bear Dance Fire Burn Area Trail Reopening
Southern Ute Indian Reservation – On June 3, 2022, the Bear Dance Fire ignited on tribal trust land and burned 89 acres north of the Bear Dance grounds and along the Los Pinos River. Following the fire, non-hazardous and hazardous debris was observed on the ground surface in areas paralleling Ute Road by the Tribe’s Environmental Programs Department (EPD). Exposed hazardous materials created a potential concern for public health. Out of an abundance of caution, Tribal Council closed the Bear Dance Fire burn area, including the hiking trail along the Los Pinos River.
After extensive planning, EPD, Cottonwood Consulting, and Emergency Environmental Services initiated a remediation project on April 8, 2024. The project was successfully completed on May 6, 2024. This involved the removal and proper disposal of an estimated 2 million pounds of potentially hazardous materials and soil. Additionally, to enhance the visual appeal of the area, an estimated 340,000 pounds of non-hazardous debris was removed. The remediation area has been backfilled with clean soil and reseeded with an approved local grass mix.
The Los Pinos River hiking trail had been closed during remediation activities. These activities will be completed on May 17, 2024 and Tribal Council has approved the reopening of the trail.
If you have any questions, please contact the Southern Ute Environmental Programs Department at (970) 563-2272.
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– Summer Begay, Communication Specialist.

Southern Ute Police Department: Dispatch Lines 05072024

Update: 05/07/2024 8:30 PM
The Southern Ute Police Department phone lines are working. Thank you for your understanding!
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Southern Ute Police Department Dispatch is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Our phone lines are down, and we cannot receive incoming or outgoing calls.

If you have an emergency: Please dial 911. Central Dispatch will answer and transfer you to Southern Ute Dispatch.

Non-emergency calls: We apologize for the inconvenience. We are working hard to resolve the issue and will update you as soon as possible. In the meantime, you may call 970-563-2820 for non-emergencies.

Thank you for your understanding!

-Summer Begay, Communication Specialist

For Immediate Release: Tribal Council Welcomes Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner Touton 05062024

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320
Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 6, 2024
Tribal Council Welcomes Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner Touton
Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Making history, Commissioner Camille Calimlim Touton of the Bureau of Reclamation became the first Commissioner to visit the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s headquarters in the agency’s 133-year existence. Chairman Melvin J. Baker, the Tribal Council, and staff extended a warm welcome to the Commissioner and her team, who were joined by Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO) and congressional staff from Senator Bennet and Senator Hickenlooper’s offices.
The meeting provided a platform for Tribal leadership to elevate concerns about water challenges and express appreciation for the Bureau of Reclamation’s ongoing support in building tribal water resiliency. “This visit marks a new chapter in our collaborative efforts with the Bureau of Reclamation. We are grateful for Commissioner Touton’s commitment to understanding our needs and for this grant award that will assist our efforts to improve and strengthen our water security,” said Chairman Baker.
The Southern Ute Indian Tribe was awarded a $4,666,719 grant, with $2.3 million coming from the federal government and $2.3 million provided by the Tribe as a match. This funding, announced by Commissioner Touton during a meeting, will support the construction of long-crested weirs to stabilize water levels upstream of Tribal diversions during dry periods and ensure the Tribe can access its full water allocation. The grant is part of the Biden-Harris Investing in America project.
“This funding through President Biden’s Investing in American Agenda will help you respond to water reliability challenges due to drought,” Commissioner Camille Calimlim Touton said. “We continue to prioritize Tribal Nations as you lead with solutions for the benefit of water sustainability across the West.”
“For too long, the United States has failed to live up to its responsibility to adequately fund and maintain the Pine River Indian Irrigation Project. I was grateful to travel to Ignacio today with Commissioner Touton to welcome this investment to ensure the Southern Ute Indian Tribe can access the water it needs. There is much more work to be done, but this is a great start,” said Senator Michael Bennet.
Following the meeting, Commissioner Touton, Senator Bennet, and Vice Chairman Lorelei Cloud embarked on a tour of the Pine River Indian Irrigation Project, led by the Tribe’s Water Resources Division. The Tribe’s long-standing positive relationship with the Bureau of Reclamation has resulted in valuable technical assistance and multiple grants for infrastructure improvements, including fish passage enhancements.
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Photo Credit: Summer Begay

For Immediate Release: “Land is Sacred”: Chairman Baker Urges Colorado to Block Durango’s Land Grab 05032024

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320
Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 3, 2024
“Land is Sacred”: Chairman Baker Urges Colorado to Block Durango’s Land Grab
Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Chairman Melvin J. Baker delivered a powerful testimony last night, urging the Colorado House Committee on State, Civic, Military, and Veteran Affairs to defend a historical promise. Chairman Baker urged the Committee to support Senate Bill 24-193: Protect Tribal Lands from Unauthorized Annexation. This legislation stands as a crucial shield against the City of Durango’s egregious attempt to seize Southern Ute Indian Reservation land for economic gain.
For generations beyond counting, the Utes have been the unwavering stewards of Colorado. Their ancestral lands stretch across the state’s mountains and valleys, a testament to their deep connection to the land. The rich culture, traditions, and language of the Utes are woven into the very fabric of Colorado. Their resilience is a testament to their spirit, having endured forced assimilation, brutal relocations, and the relentless theft of their land and cultural heritage. The Reservation, established by federal treaties, was a solemn vow: “absolute and undisturbed use and occupation” for the Utes. Yet, Durango’s actions are a blatant disregard for these historical agreements.
The Southern Ute Indian Tribe, a cornerstone of southwestern Colorado, considers their land more than property – it is sacred. Chairman Baker’s message struck a clear chord: Respecting tribal sovereignty strengthens, not weakens, Colorado’s future.
Senate Bill 24-193 is not a formality; it is a critical lifeline. By honoring the Tribe’s sovereignty, Colorado can build a future based on mutual respect and collaboration. The Southern Ute Indian Tribe extends a hand in partnership, but Durango’s actions threaten to unravel years of progress. Colorado has a stark choice to make: stand with the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and build a future based on trust or allow Durango to unravel the fabric of respect. Passage of this bill sends a clear message: Colorado honors its Tribal Nations.
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– Summer Begay, Communication Specialist