Category: Culture

The Southern Ute Lands Division Shares (2) 45-day Notices for Land Assignments

The Southern Ute Lands Division is currently advertising two, 45-day notices of availability of tribal land for assignment.

To apply for a Land Assignment or Lease Request, eligible tribal member applicants must submit an Application for Assignment of Tribal Lands and Homesite Development Plan along with a drawing card containing their name, address, and contact information (including phone number and email). The Lands Division will review the submitted applications, homesite development plans, and drawing cards to ensure only eligible Tribal members’ names are placed in the drawing.

Those interested can mail, email, or deliver in person your submission to the Department of Natural Resources – Lands Division at PO Box 737, Ignacio, CO 81137, or contact us via email at sluzar@southernute-nsn.gov or via phone at 970-563-0126.

The Department of Natural Resources has also received an application from Ms. Nalani Thompson for an assignment on tribal lands. The land she has applied for is a relinquishment of a homesite assignment from a non-immediate family member. The easement to this assignment is off of CR 324 and it will be included in the proposed assignment.

If you have any comments or objections about the assignment, you can submit them as well. You can mail, email, or deliver in person your submission to the Department of Natural Resources – Lands Division at PO Box 737, Ignacio, CO 81137, or via email at sluzar@southernute-nsn.gov or via phone at 970-563-0126.

For Immediate Release: Preserving Ute Culture: Committee passes Free State Park Access Bill 02252025

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Marvin Pinnecoose, Vice Chairman – 970.563.2402
Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 25, 2025

Preserving Ute Culture: Committee passes Free State Park Access Bill

Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The Southern Ute Indian Tribe is pleased to announce the unanimous passage of Colorado House Bill 25-1163, granting enrolled Tribal Members free access to all 43 Colorado State Parks, out of the House Agricultural, Water & Natural Resources committee. This landmark state legislation acknowledges our enduring connection to our ancestral homelands and ensures our cultural heritage is preserved for future generations.

This bill, sponsored by Representatives Katie Stewart and Rick Taggert, recognizes the Ute Tribes as the original stewards of these lands, honoring our deep historical and cultural ties to the natural resources within Colorado’s state parks. For countless generations, the Nuuchiu have utilized and respected these lands, waters, and wildlife. The ability to freely access these parks is crucial for Tribal Members to continue our responsibility to care for these lands, as our ancestors have done for centuries.

While we recognize the advocacy from other Tribes for expanded access, this legislation reflects the distinct sovereign-to-sovereign relationship between the State of Colorado and the Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute Tribes, whose traditional territories lie within Colorado. We believe this bill serves as a valuable model and encourages other Tribal Nations to build similar partnerships with the states where their reservations are located.

Vice Chairman Marvin Pinnecoose testified virtually in support of this bill, sharing, “The precious land, water, agriculture, and wildlife that make up our Colorado State Parks contain important cultural sites and trail systems that have long been used by the Ute people. Today, it is critical that our Tribal youth be able to access and visit these sites and traditional areas to ensure that our cultural practices are carried forward to future generations.”

This significant milestone marks a crucial step in honoring the Ute people’s legacy. As HB25-1163 advances to the House Appropriations Committee, we look forward to the continued progress of this vital legislation.
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For Immediate Release: Statement on Sky Ute Casino Resort

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Marvin Pinnecoose, Vice Chairman – 970.563.2402
Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 20, 2025

Statement on Sky Ute Casino Resort

Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Tribal Council remains steadfast in our commitment to the safety and well-being of our Tribal Members, guests, staff, and community. We are working closely with Tribal and local law enforcement, who are actively collaborating to address the situation. We will continue to provide appropriate and timely updates while remaining committed to protecting the integrity of the investigation.

The Southern Ute Indian Tribe and Sky Ute Casino Resort are taking every necessary precaution to maintain a safe, secure, and welcoming environment. We deeply appreciate the patience, trust, and support of our community and staff as we work diligently toward a positive resolution. Your safety is our top priority, and we are fully committed to ensuring peace of mind for all.

At our After Action Report Meeting this afternoon, there were several positive takeaways that can serve as comfort to the community. The response time from the initial call to evacuation and relocation was mere minutes. This is evidence of the committed and knowledgeable staff within the Tribal organization, as well as the reciprocal relationships with key community partners: Ignacio Police Department, La Plata County Sheriff’s Office, and Los Pinos Fire Protection District.

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All Clear: Sky Ute Casino Resort

Sky Ute Casino Resort Update | February 20, 2025 1:05 AM

The situation at Sky Ute Casino Resort has been safely resolved. Law enforcement remains present as a precaution. A thorough sweep of the premises has been conducted, and NO items of concern were located.

All clear has been granted, however, access to Sky Ute Casino Resort remains restricted. Normal operations will resume on Thursday, February 20, 2025 at 7:00 AM. Hotel guests may visit the Front Desk to gain access to their rooms.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the Southern Ute Police Department, Tribal Rangers, Ignacio Police Department, La Plata County Sheriff’s Office, Los Pinos Fire Protection District, and the SunUte Community Center for their response and assistance.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement Update

Immigration and Customs Enforcement Update | February 19, 2025

Vice Chairman Marvin Pinnecoose and Tribal Council participated in a productive virtual meeting this afternoon with a local representative from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Also present were Executive Officer Lindsay J. Box, Justice and Regulatory Director Elliott Salazar, and Chief of Police Michael Barrow.

This meeting established a foundation for ongoing collaboration and information sharing between the Tribe and ICE. Discussions focused on mutual areas of interest and priorities, with both parties expressing a commitment to open communication. Tribal Council welcomed ICE’s recognition of Tribal sovereignty and its willingness to work cooperatively with the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s law enforcement.

This initial dialogue is a positive step towards building a stronger working relationship and underscores the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s proactive approach to community safety and well-being.

There is no indication of any immediate threat to the Tribal Membership.

Winter Weather Reminder

We know the winter weather has caused some power outages, and we want to let you know our staff is working diligently to clear the snow as quickly and safely as possible. For your safety, we urge you to avoid travel unless it is essential. For updates and information, please call the Tribal hotline at 970-563-4800. If you have any concerns, please contact Executive Officer Lindsay J. Box at 970-563-2314.

Thank you for your patience and understanding!
Stay safe and warm!

Inclement Weather: Closure

❄️ Tribal Office Closure ❄️
Due to inclement weather, Chairman Baker has granted administrative leave for employees today, February 14, 2025.
Tribal Offices will be closed.
Normal business hours will resume at 8:00 AM on February 18, 2025. Tribal Members and the general public are encouraged to reschedule any business to be conducted during this closure.
Please continue to monitor weather-related updates via Tribal social media platforms, Tribal website, and the Tribal Hotline at 970-563-4800. Safe Travels and Stay Warm!

For Immediate Release: Tribal Leaders Meet to Discuss Shared Interests and Opportunities

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320
Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 13, 2025
Tribal Leaders Meet to Discuss Shared Interests and Opportunities
Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Chairman Melvin J. Baker and Tribal Council welcomed Jicarilla Apache Nation President Adrian Notsinneh and the Jicarilla Apache Legislative Council to the Growth Fund yesterday afternoon for a productive meeting. The meeting included a presentation by Growth Fund Executive Director Shane Seibel, and Operating Director Kourtney Hadrick.
The meeting focused on fostering collaboration and strengthening the relationship between the two Tribes. Discussions included sharing ideas and experiences, recognizing that mutual cooperation is crucial for identifying solutions and advancing shared goals.
“True progress comes from collaboration. We gained valuable insights from the Jicarilla Apache Nation’s experiences, and we were able to share our own. These exchanges are essential for building a solid foundation of understanding and cooperation, enabling us to tackle complex issues and achieve meaningful results for our Tribes. President Notsinneh and I look forward to future meetings and opportunities,” shared Chairman Baker.
The Southern Ute Indian Tribe looks forward to continuing this important dialogue and working together with the Jicarilla Apache Nation.
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