(Becker County Commissioners AgWeek story) – On May5, 2023 the White Earth Nation passed a water ordinance that gives the tribe jusridiction over “all water use – not only on the reservation but also a 5-mile “buffer” belt that applies to non-tribal members, private landowners and all water users who have existing water appropriation permits from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The Becker County Board considers this to be an overreach by White Earth. Approximately a third of Becker County is within the boarders of the White Earth Reservation. The County Board has declared its support for anyone facing tribal fines or other legal action for violating the new water ordinance. The resolution says there are more than 950 farms in Becker county, totaling over 381,000 acres that will be affected by the ordinance. Failing to obtain a permit from White Earth Reservation could include a $5,000, per day penalty and possible legal action.