Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Application for Treatment Similar as a State for Water Quality Standards

The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe of Minnesota is now approved to develop water quality standards for surface waters on the Leech Lake Reservation. The 864,158-acre reservation spans portions of Beltrami, Cass, Hubbard, and Itasca counties in Northern Minnesota. 

After a thorough review of the Leech Lake Band’s application and public comments, EPA determined that the Band meets the Clean Water Act requirements to develop water quality standards “in a manner similar to a state’’ and to make water quality certifications for its reservation. An authorized tribe or state must propose any new or revised water quality standards under a separate action which is subject to public notice, public comment and EPA approval.  

At EPA, honoring the government-to-government relationship and advancing a strong partnership with Tribes is central to how we administer our programs and advance environmental justice and equity.

Approval of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe's Application for Treatment in a Similar Manner as a State (pdf) (563.21 KB, 11/03/2021)

Approval Letter from Regional Administrator Debra Shore to Chairman Faron Jackson (pdf) (331.64 KB, 11/03/2021)

Application 

The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Application/or Treatment Similar as a State Status Under the Clean Water Act cover (pdf)

The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Clean Water Act TAS Application (pdf)

• The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Clean Water Act TAS Application attachments 1-10 (pdf)
• The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Clean Water Act TAS Application attachments 11-21 (pdf)
• The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Clean Water Act TAS Application attachments 22-35 (pdf)
• The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Clean Water Act TAS Application attachments 36-58 (pdf)