Land Swap a Boost for Northern Cheyenne Tribe

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By Joel Lundstad

Story Published: Jun 22, 2011 at 6:34 PM MST

Story Updated: Jun 23, 2011 at 11:59 AM MST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - A proposed land swap between the Northern Cheyenne Tribe and a private company has the bipartisan support of Montana's political leaders.

Congressman Denny Rehberg is sponsoring a bill that would make that exchange official. The deal was negotiated between the Tribe and Great Northern Properties nearly a decade ago.

The exchange would correct a century old surveying error by the U.S. Government, which left coal reserves on tribal land under the control of the Northern Pacific Railroad, which was passed on to Great Northern Properties.

That error prevents the tribe from earning royalties on coal reserves that lie below reservation land. Rehberg's bill would correct that mistake. He says it would create significant revenue for the Northern Cheyenne.

The republican says it would also impact the Signal Peak Mining operation near Roundup, which employs 280 workers.

Rehberg says the deal contributes to a more balanced energy policy that would include fossil fuels in addition to alternative energy such as wind power. He says Montana's economy is still dependent upon the development of fossil fuels and coal is a major part of that.

The U.S. Interior Department has expressed concern over the exchange saying it appears to be unfairly tilted in favor of Great Northern Properties. However, Northern Cheyenne Tribal Vice President Joe Fox says the tribe believes it's a fair deal and they strongly support the agreement.

Rehberg says his bill has the support of Montana's State Land Board, including Governor Brian Schweitzer as well as both of Montana's democratic Senators, Max Baucus and Jon Tester.

Rehberg, Fox, and Great Northern Properties CEO Chuck Kerr testified in favor of the bill Wednesday morning in Washington, D.C. before the House Natural Resources Subcommittee.

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Delbert Little Bird Jr said on Monday, Jun 27 at 10:27 PM

I am A member of the Northern Cheyenne, born and raised in Ashland and my question is why have we not heard of this "deal" being made in the best interest of our people?

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