GRAND TRAVERSE BAND OF OTTAWA & CHIPPEWA INDIANS

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TRIBAL

GOVERNMENT

PROGRAM SERVICE

MANUAL 2024-25

GRAND TRAVERSE I CHARLEVOIX I LEELANAU I BENZIE I MANISTEE I ANTRIM

THE SEVEN GRANDFATHER TEACHINGS

Wisdom - Nbwaakaawin: To Cherish Knowledge is

to know wisdom.

Love - Zaagidwin: To know love is to know peace.

Love is based upon affection, respect and kindness

Love cannot be demanded..It must be earned

and given freely from the goodness of your heart.

Bravery - Aakgehwin: To face life with

courage is to know bravery. It is the personal

strength to face difficulties, obstacles and

challenges. It is the Courage to make positive

choices. Never give in.

Humility - Dbaasendiziwin: To accept yourself as

a sacred part of creation. Recognize the human

need for balance in life. Know that you are equal

to everyone else. Take pride in what you do & share

your accomplishments with others.

Truth - Debwewin: To know the teachings of the

7 Grandfathers is to know the truth. Faithfully

apply these teachings and trust in the Creator.

Be true to yourself and true to your fellow man.

Understand it. Speak it. Live by it.

Honesty - Gwekwaadiziwin: To walk through

life with integrity is to know honesty.

Do not be deceitful or use self-deception.

Respect - Mnaadendimowin: Respect is to honor

all of creation. Honor our traditional roles and

teachings. Honor our families, others and ourselves.

Don’t hurt anything or anyone, on the outside or

the inside.

CONTENTS

Department 1: Elders - Page 4

Department 8: Health Services - Page 24-27

Department 2: Public Safety - Page 5-6

Department 9: Tribal Court - Page 28-30

Department 3: Tribal Management - Page 7-12

Department 10: Natural Resources - Page 31-36

Department 4: Facilities Management - Page 13

Department 11: Regulatory - Page 38

Department 5: Conservation - Page 14-15

Department 12: Education - Page 39-42

Department 6: Membership - Page 16

Department 13: Legal - Page 43-44

Department 7: Human Services - Page 20-21

Notes - Page 46-47

Tribal Govt. Organizational Chart - Page 22-23

GTB TRIBAL COUNCIL 2024

TRIBAL COUNCIL MISSION STATEMENT

“We, the Tribal Council of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa

Indians, a Sovereign Nation, honor our ancestors and strive to empower

the wellbeing of our present and future members. Our ultimate goal is to

advance our Nation into an era of increased governmental vigilance that

Sandra L. Witherspoon

promotes and protects our culture, sovereignty, health, education, treaty

Chairwoman

rights, natural resources and financial stability.”

Jane A. Rohl

Vice-Chair

Donna M. Swallows

Treasurer

Anna Miller

Secretary

Brian S. Napont

Councilor

Tina A. Frankenberger

Councilor

Angelina M. Raphael

Councilor

Department 1: Ge-ti-zid (Elders)

“Manidoo Giizis” (Spirit Moon)

Department Manager: Delores “Dee” Wonegeshik

Telephone: (231) 534-7748

Email: Delores.Wonegeshik@gtb-nsn.gov

GTB Transportation

The Elder’s Program provides meal service and site

activities for all Elders in the six-county service

area. For more information, contact your local Elder

Coordinator.

Don’t forget to check out our monthly event

calendars! You can find them in the latest edition of

GTB News and also online.

ELDER’S SITE COORDINATORS:

Antrim/Grand Traverse

Tanya Tanner (A-L):

(231) 534-7710 Cell: (231) 463-7858

Delora Wilson (M-Z):

(231) 534-7769

Benzie/Manistee

Agnes Gliniski: (Front Desk)

(231) 534-7821

Charlevoix

Barbara Kenwabikise:

(231) 534-7066 Cell: (231) 631-0281

Leelanau

Greg Bailey (A-L):

(231) 534-7740 Cell: (231) 492-4976

Melissa Martinez (M-Z):

(231) 534-7743 Cell: (231) 631-6095

ELDERS OFFICE HOURS:

Monday-Friday: 8am – 5pm

If your Elder Coordinator is unavailable due to

scheduled activities, they will promptly respond to

your message and address your concerns.

1. Transportation (231)534-7222 leave message

transportation. If they are not available for the

time you need, transportation will contact the

CHR & Elders program.

2. Area CHR will contact you if they are providing

transportation; if they cannot,

3. The elder’s program will make contact and plan

to provide transportation.

PLEASE CALL AS SOON AS YOU KNOW YOU

NEED TRANSPORTATION. We, the Three

Departments (Transportation, Community

Health Representative, and Elders Program),

WILL DO OUR BEST TO HELP YOU GET TO YOUR

APPOINTMENT TO AVOID CANCELLATION.

4. Everyone must sign up for all activities to

ensure we have enough materials, food, and/or

transportation if that is provided in your area.

It is very important for all-site activities to sign

up.

ELDERS SERVICES:

1. Elders Title VI: Part A Elders Nutrition:

Lunches Antrim/GT (3 mile site): TuesdayWednesday-Thursday; Charlevoix (east Jordan

site): Wednesday & Thursday: Leelanau (elders

complex site): coming soon. Serves GTB Elders

aged 55+ in the six-county service area

2. Care Giver Program: Are you a care giver for

older adults over 55 years of age or eligible

grandchildren? Contact your Coordinator for

more information.

3. USDA Senior Farm Market: Provides low-income

seniors with coupons they can exchange for

eligible foods at farmers markets

4. Information/Referral: Provides speciﬁc

information to a client about available GTB,

public and voluntary services and resources.

Department 2: Public Safety

“Makwa Giizis” (Bear Moon)

Department Manager: Jolanda Murphy

Telephone: (231) 534-7111

Email: Jolanda.Murphy@gtb-nsn.gov

The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa

Indians Department 2 Public Safety departments

provides for the safety and well being of the tribal

community, its visitors and business enterprises.

TRIBAL POLICE

Main Line Telephone: (231) 534-7777

Tribal Police Captain: David Crockett

Desk Line: (231) 534-7182

2300 N. Stallman Road,

Peshawbestown, MI 49682

Protection of the public and enforcement of Tribal,

State and Federal laws collaboration with federal

government (US Attorney and FBI) for investigation

and enforcement of federal crimes.

◊ Criminal Investigation

◊ Emergency Response Team

◊ Committee members: 911 Advisory Board

and LEPC/LPT

◊ Search & Rescue

◊ Sex Offender Registry and Notification Program

◊ Safe Exchange Program

◊ Community Police activities

◊ Bicycle Registry

TRIBAL VICTIM ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

Tribal Victim Assistance Director - Jackie Barnowski

Provides direct victim assistance services to Native

American victims of crime in the six-county service

area. This program ensures that health and safety

needs of the victims are met, responds to victim

needs throughout the prosecution phase of crime,

and provides support and assistance to victims of all

types of crime.

Types of services provided by the GTB Tribal Victim

Assistance Program include: informing victims

of their rights, transportation assistance to court,

emotional support, referrals for counseling or

other assistance, victim notification, advocacy and

support in Tribal/State/Federal Courts, assistance

with relocation to a safe place, assistance in filing

Personal Protection Orders (PPO’s), assistance in

filing for restitution, and assistance in filing Victim’s

Compensation Claims.

Sub-departments within Department 2

PUBLIC SAFETY

Tribal Police Department, Victim Assistance Services,

SORNA, Fire and Rescue Department, and GTB

Emergency Management.

Tribal Police, Victim Services, and SORNA assist

victims of crime with fairness, dignity and respect,

and effectively ensure offenders are held accountable

through the judicial services, while ensuring the

rights of the accused are protected.

Tribal Fire/Rescue Department provides first

response services to critical emergencies occurring

in designated areas on Tribal land and Mutual Aid

throughout the county.

Desk phone: (231) 534-7525

Cell phone: (231) 866-0544

Tribal Victim Services Coordinator - Leona Burfield

Desk phone: (231) 534-7641

Cell phone: (231) 631-6166

Tribal Emergency Management Office provides

for the coordination and utilization of resources

in the Tribe in an emergency or disaster situation

in preparation for the mitigation, preparedness,

response and recovery from natural and humanmade disasters within the Reservation.

Department 2: Public Safety

“Makwa Giizis” (Bear Moon)

SORNA PROGRAM - GRANT

(Sex Offender Registry and Notification Act)

Telephone: (231) 534-7632

2300 N. Stallman Road, Peshawbestown, MI 49682

The Sex Offender Registration and Notification

Act is Title 1 of the Adam Walsh Child Protection

and Safety Act of 2006. SORNA outlines mandatory

minimum standards for sex offender registration

and notification for all US jurisdictions, including

states, federally recognized Tribes, and US territories.

The purpose of this act is to help protect the public

from sex offenders.

◊ Maintain GTB Sex Offender Registry; update

verification information as required.

◊ Provide education to the community and staff

regarding the Sex Offender Registry and GTB

Sex Offender Registry Code.

FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICES

◊ Emergency Medical Technician Level EMS

Response.

◊ 7 days a week fire and EMS response.

◊ CPR , First Aid and AED Training.

◊ Tribal Facility Inspections (buildings,

playground, tornado shelters, homes).

◊ Drills (fire, tornado, evacuation, etc.).

◊ Wild-land Fire Management Program.

◊ Committees: Leelanau Fire Chiefs, Leelanau

Fire Training, Local Medical Control, GTB and

Leelanau County Emergency Planning,

Leelanau County 911.

◊ Manages Mutual Aid Response for 6 county

services area Tribal lands.

◊ Work in conjunction with Tribal Police,

Prosecutor, Tribal Court and GTB Legal

Department to review and propose changes

to the GTB SOR Code.

◊ Provide Community Notification

offenders registered with GTB.

sex

GTB FIRE AND RESCUE DEPARTMENT

Main Phone Line: (231) 534-7666

Fire Chief: Garrett Fairchild

Main Line: (231) 534-7161

3501 Putnam Road,

Peshawbestown, MI 49682

Tribal Fire/Rescue Department provides first

response services to critical emergencies occurring

on Tribal land and Mutual Aid throughout Leelanau

County.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Telephone: (231) 534-7111

2300 N. Stallman Road,

Peshawbestown, MI 49682

Provides coordination and utilization of resources in

the GTB Tribe in an emergency or disaster situation.

◊ Committee membership: Representation on

Homeland Security Planning Board, Local

Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)

and Local Planning Team (LPT) Committees,

Leelanau County Emergency Management

Office Tribal Liaison, Region 7 Emergency

Preparedness Coordinators Committee and GTB

Local Planning Team.

◊ Maintain National Incident Management

System (NIMS) compliance requirements and

mandates.

◊ Provide annual emergency preparedness

staff training and exercises.

◊ Maintain

Tribal

Emergency

Operations

Plan (EOP) in collaboration with assigned

departments.

Department 3: Tribal Management

“Nmebin Giizis” (Snow Crest Moon)

Interim Tribal Manager: Sonya Zotigh

Telephone: (231) 534-7136

Email: Sonya.Zotigh3@gtb-nsn.gov

COMMUNITY SATELLITE OFFICES

Tribal Government Administration

Peshawbestown

Main Phone Line: (231) 534-7750

BURIAL FUND

Fax: (231) 534-7565

Benzie / Manistee Community Satellite

Main Phone Line: (231) 534-7622

(231) 534-7820

Fax: (231) 534-7152

(231) 882-4116

Fax: (231) 882-4194

The Burial Fund benefits are available for all duly

enrolled Tribal Members. To obtain the benefit, a

certified (original) death certificate and a copy of

the funeral home contract. There are no beneficiary

forms. Death Certificate and funeral home contract

should be mailed to:

Charlevoix Community Satellite

(231) 534-7060

Fax: (231) 534-7148

(231) 536-0024

Fax: (231) 536-0074

Traverse City Community Satellite

(231) 534-7760

Fax: (231) 534-7773

OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND

BUDGETS

(Accounting Department)

Interim Department Manager: Christina Loucks

Desk Line: (231) 534-7131

Main Phone Line: (231) 534-7622

Fax Line: (231) 534-7861

To provide the following direct services to the

membership:

◊ Process applications & maintain database

of Resident Tribal Members (RTM) for tax

exemption. Issue (sales & use) tax exemption

certificates for RTM’s

◊ Issue per capita checks

◊ Provide copies of tax forms, upon request

◊ Provide verification of income, upon authorized

request

◊ Calculate and process the annual payments to

GTB elders from the Elders Trust Fund

Grand Traverse Band

Attn: Accounting

2605 N. West Bay Shore Dr.

Peshawbestown, MI 49682

Once processed a two party check is mailed to the

funeral home and made payable to the funeral home

and the person who signed the funeral bill (contract).

Burial Assistance Food Applications requests can be

handled through the Human Services Department

please contact them at (231) 534-7910. The maximum

amount that can be requested is $500, the amount

requested will be deducted from the burial fund

benefit

Bereavement Announcement Line: (231) 534- 7464

OFFICE OF PROGRAM

DEVELOPMENT & EVALUATION

The Office of Program Development and Evaluation

works closely with tribal leaders and department

managers to secure funding for new and existing

programs and recommend program improvements

to better meet the needs of Tribal Membership.

Many of the grants that GTB applies for are highly

competitive where GTB has been chosen out of pools

of hundreds of applicants from all over the country.

Grant funds are used for a variety of programs Head

Start, Eyaawing Museum, Cultural Center building,

and family violence prevention programs.

Department 3: Tribal Management

“Nmebin Giizis” (Snow Crest Moon)

Department Manager: Aaron Chivis

Desk Phone: (231) 534-7764

Email: Aaron.Chivis@gtb-nsn.gov

EYAAWING MUSEUM & CULTURAL

CENTER

Telephone: (231) 534-7764

Eyaawing Museum was created by the Grand Traverse

Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians to establish,

gather, interpret, and maintain a record of the history

of the Grand Traverse Band of Anishinaabek with

respect for the circle of life, honor for our families, and

the telling of our true heritage. This role promotes the

GTB’s belief that the culture, language and spirit of the

Grand Traverse Band shall be recognized, perpetuated,

communicated, supported, and shared with the people

of all nations. Eyaawing translates as:

“Who we are” in Anishinaabemowin, the traditional

language of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and

Chippewa Indians.

Ɉ Eyaawing museum is closed until further notice.

Ɉ Eyaawing is developing a new website for virtual

exhibits, programming & online store.

Ɉ Eyaawing developing preservation and repatriation

programs.

Ɉ Eyaawing developing plans for historic archives &

GTB member archives for researching purposes.

ANISHINAABEMOWIN

Telephone: (231) 534-7758

Anishinaabemowin (our original language) and the

Anishnaabek culture are a vital part of who we are

as Anishinaabek. This is our identity and the two

cannot be separated. Anishnaabek culture and

language have been passed down from generation

to generation by oral teachings.

The language and culture is of utmost importance

today. Those Anishnaabek who are still

knowledgeable and those who are presently

learning Anishnaabemowin and culture, must

continue to pass the teachings on to the next

generation, through all oral, written, visual aids,

necessary so these teachings will continue.

Email: Melissa.Petoskey@gtb-nsn.gov

HUMAN RESOURCES

Telephone: (231) 534-7100

https://bit.ly/GTBGovt_Jobs

The Human Resources Department would like to

welcome all Tribal Members seeking employment,

as well as current employees, to visit our operations

located in the Government Annex building. Located

in our department you will find our Employment

Center, which serves as the main location for you to

access all of the current job openings and apply for

them on the spot. The Human Resources Department

also serves as a base for current employees who

may need assistance with any employment related

issues, including benefits. We have a dedicated staff

that would be more than happy to assist with any

questions and/or concerns you may have.

477 PROGRAM

Main Line: (231) 534-7767

The 477 Program is a federally funded program

that helps Tribal Members reduce joblessness

and encourage self-sufficiency among federally

recognized tribal (FRT) members within the Grand

Traverse Band service area.

The 477 Program offers:

WEX - Adult Work Experience Client Support

Ɉ Assistance securing work tools, supplies, attire,

childcare, temporary transportation costs. High

School & GED Completion

Ɉ Dependent upon funding availability, an incentive

stipend is awarded upon completion. Workforce

Development Training

Ɉ Work Ethic, Interview Skills, Resume/Cover Letter

Ɉ Scheduled and delivered upon need and demand.

HOUSING DEPARTMENT

TRAVERSE

Desk Phone: (231) 534-7689

Department Manager: Melissa Petoskey

Department 3: Tribal Management

“Nmebin Giizis” (Snow Crest Moon)

Depar

Interim Housing Manager: Sonya Zotigh

Email: Sonya.Zotigh2@gtb-nsn.gov

Main Housing Line: (231) 534-7800

The mission of the Grand Traverse Band Housing

Department is to provide and promote safe, adequate

and affordable housing opportunities for GTB Tribal

Members. As the facilitator of housing for the tribal

communities, the Housing Department is responsible

for creating a healthy living environment for

families through responsive initiatives that address

social and economic concerns via a solution oriented

education based housing program.

The Grand Traverse Band places a priority on home

ownership as a means to stabilize communities by

promoting self-sufficiency. While housing families

is the primary mission of the Housing Department,

the focus is on creating housing opportunities by

assisting families to obtain the required knowledge

necessary to make informed life decisions. In

the absence of eligible GTB Tribal Members, the

GTB Housing Department will provide these

opportunities to other Federally Recognized Indian

Families that live within the Grand Traverse Band

six-county service area.

What Housing offers to Tribal Members:

◊ Housing applications & assistance for lowincome, Market Rental & Mutual help (Unit

Placing).

◊ Rental Security Deposit / First Month Rent

Program

◊ Emergency Home Repair Applications

◊ Emergency Home Inspection

◊ Down Payment Applications

◊ Rental Subsidy Program

◊ Home Buyer Classes

◊ Budget Counseling / Financial Education

◊ Septic Pumping (Income qualified Homeowners)

◊ Handicap Accessible program

Resources for Other Programs:

◊ Information for House Insurance

◊ Well—Septic Applications

◊ Lot Assignment Applications

◊ Tax Exempt Application

◊ Human Services Application

Department 3: Tribal Management

“Nmebin Giizis” (Snow Crest Moon)

PUBLIC WORKS

Desk Line: (231) 534-7491

Peshawbestown: (231) 534-7376

The Mission of the Grand Traverse Band Automotive

Repair Program is to provide quality automotive

repair services for the Grand Traverse Band

Tribal Government and Economic Development

Corporation vehicles. The Grand Traverse Band

Automotive Repair Program also offers automotive

repair services to registered Grand Traverse Band

Tribal Members living in the 6-county service area

at rate of $30 per hour with no mark on the cost of

parts. All the automotive repair technicians are State

of Michigan Certified with a combined experience of

over 60 years.

Please call main line to set up a diagnostic

appointment.

Requirements:

Turtle Creek: (231) 534-7496

TRA RSE

Main Line: (231) 534-7705

Department Manager: Joe Huhn

Department Manager: Duane Burfield

GRAN

AUTOMOTIVE

IC WOR

The Grand Traverse Band Department of Public

works is dedicated to supplying safe drinking water

for the Peshawbestown community, Acme Twp. and

Whitewater Twp. In addition, we provide superior

wastewater treatment for discharge into West Grand

Traverse Bay and ground water at the Turtle Creek

wastewater facility. In doing so this department is

contributing to the good health and well being of

the community and the environment.

The GTB DPW oversees the following systems:

◊ Peshawbestown wastewater treatment plant

and collection system

• Tribal Identification Card

◊ Peshawbestown water system and

distribution system

• Vehicle Proof of Insurance

◊ Turtle Creek wastewater treatment plant

• Vehicle Registration - must be current and

registered to the Tribal Member requesting repairs.

◊ Turtle Creek water system and distribution

system

Our Services Include:

◊ Engine Repair

◊ Transmission and Drive-train Repairs

◊ Electrical Systems Repair

◊ Heating and Air Conditioning Repairs

◊ Wheel Alignment Services

◊ Exhaust and Brake Repairs

◊ Engine Performance and Tune-ups

◊ New Tire and Tire Repair Services

*We are unable to do ANY type of body work due to

licensing requirements.

◊ Grand Traverse Resort water system

◊ Wells & septic program for the six county

service area

Department 3: Tribal Management

“Nmebin Giizis” (Snow Crest Moon)

COMMUNICATIONS

Department Manager: Victoria Alfonseca

Desk Phone: (231) 534-7366

Main Line: (231) 534-7008

Email: GTBGovt.News@gtb-nsn.gov

The mission of the Communications program is to provide the membership with information about

their tribal government operations, services, historical archive and all news concerning Native American

livelihood.

◊ Mass Notification Services

◊ Activities include creating and distributing a monthly news publication, development and oversight

of the tribal government website, audio/video recording and quick-print services.

◊ The tribal website address is: www.GTBindians.org

◊ The website gives access to all general government services and it includes a “Members Only” portion

offering a video PLAYBACK archive of Tribal Council approved regular and special session meetings.

◊ The GTB News is a monthly publication providing program information, scheduled community

activities, and reporting on events and services of the tribal government.

◊ Audio/Video recording services archive events and achievements of the tribal government.

◊ The Communication program also provides a quick- print and design services to all Government offices,

EDC offices and the Tribal Membership.

Department 3: Tribal Management

“Nmebin Giizis” (Snow Crest Moon)

TRIBAL PROSECUTOR

Tribal Prosecutor: Wilson Brott

Main Line: (231) 534-7630

Email: Prosecutor@gtb-nsn.gov

2300 N. Stallman Road

Peshawbestown, MI 49682

The duties of the Tribal Prosecutor are primarily

spelled out in the Tribal Code at 3 GTBC § 104, which

states:

The Tribal Prosecutor shall:

(1) be the chief law enforcement officer of the Tribe and shall be responsible for all criminal investigations

and prosecutions in Tribal Court, including arraignments, motions, trials and appeals.

(2) have the discretion to prosecute violations of the Tribe’s constitution, criminal code, ordinances and

resolutions in Tribal Court.

(3) work closely with the Tribal Court Administrator and Tribal Judge to improve the delivery of services

within the Tribal Court and to assist the Court in case management and docket preparation.

(4) serve as presenting officer in the Tribe’s Children’s Court and represent the Tribe in Indian Child Welfare

cases in state jurisdictions upon the authorization of the ICW Committee or the Tribal Court.

(5) prosecute violations of the Tribe’s fishing and conservation regulations as well as the regulations of the

Chippewa-Ottawa Treaty Fishing Management Authority, in the Tribe’s Conservation Court.

(6) establish a working relationship with local, state and federal jurisdictions and establish a protocol for

coordinating criminal investigations and prosecutions with such local, state and federal jurisdictions.

(7) review all charges and complaints of violations of Tribal codes and ordinances and determine what charges

to bring and whom to charge.

(8) review all requests for arrest warrants and search warrants to determine if all constitutional requirements

are satisfied prior to approval or authorization.

(9) serve, in his/her civil capacity, as in-house counsel for the various departments of Tribal government and

shall render legal opinions when requested to do so.

The Tribal Prosecutor may also give advice to Tribal members and employees and shall provide pro-bono

services to Tribal elders or Tribal members who are having legal problems which may be related to their status

as Native Americans. These services may only be provided as time permits and may not take priority over

normal prosecutor duties.

The Tribal Prosecutor also provides up to 30 hours of time on an annual basis to perform duties for the

Compensation Committee as needed in conjunction with their responsibilities as defined in 1 GTBC Chapter 4.

Department 4: Facilities Management

“Ziizabaakwat Giizis” (Sugar Moon)

Department Manager: Ron Anderson

Desk Phone: (231) 534-7034

Email: Ron.Anderson@gtb-nsn.gov

FACILITIES MAINTENANCE

The Facilities Department mission is to provide

the highest quality services to insure the health,

safety and well being of Tribal Members, employees,

community members and Tribal Property while

preserving the integrity of our natural resources.

Maintenance Oversees:

◊

Over 110,000 square feet of office space to be

cleaned daily.

◊

Over 100,000 square feet of common area such as

bathrooms, hallways, conference rooms, closets,

furnace rooms that need to be cleaned.

◊

There are 62 bathrooms that need to be cleaned

daily.

◊

Approximately 60 acres of lawn to care for on a

weekly basis.

◊

A Summer Camp near Alden (The Ne-zhon-zhawuk Park).

◊

Elders Park, Peshawbestown park and Antrim

Beach Park

◊

The Arthur Duhamel Marina in Peshawbestown.

◊

Snow Removal services for GTB Gov. offices

Department 5: Conservation

“Naabidin Giizis” (Sturgeon Moon)

Interim Department Manager: La’Kota Raphael

Telephone: (231) 534-7500

Email: Lakota.Raphael@gtb-nsn.gov

Exercise of 1836 Treaty of Washington on waters and

lands within the Ceded Territory.

COMMERCIAL FISHERIES

ENFORCEMENT

Commercial Vessel Inspections.

Identification and documentation for Special

Use Permits.

Wildlife Survey Counts.

Environmental Law Enforcement, storm runoff

sites, building sites and permits.

Great Lakes water safety instructor commercial

vessels.

Hunter Safety Course Certification.

Inland Hunting, Fishing and Gathering

Enforcement. Illegal dump sites enforcement.

Committee memberships: Joint Law Enforcement

Committee and Native American Fish & Wildlife

Society.

Natural Resource Protection.

Water Quality, related invasive species location

documentation.

INLAND:

Produce, review and implement policies and

Regulation booklets with Inland Hunting,

Gathering and Fishing Rights as recommended

by the Natural Resources and Environment

Committee.

Hunting, fishing, trapping, gathering licenses

and special use permits.

Turkey and Deer tags issued for appropriate

seasons; organize and conduct lotteries for

permit distribution.

Elk and Black Bear tags issued for appropriate

seasons; organize and conduct lotteries for

permit distribution.

Special use permits; disabled Tribal hunter

permits, special needs subsistence/ceremonial

permit and road kill special use permit.

Issue and manage the distribution of spearing

and netting permits for fish species including

walleye, steelhead and salmon.

Department 5: Conservation

“Naabidin Giizis” (Sturgeon Moon)

INLAND (CONT.):

OTHER:

Inland Boat/Snowmobile/ORV registration.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake-shore access

passes.

Huron-Manistee National Forest access passes.

GPS Mapping and Technical Assistance.

Issue camping permits, firewood permits among

other permits authorizing Tribal Member

resource use on USFS and State lands.

Plant, Insect and Fish Identification.

Public Outreach and Education including Natural

Resources Fair and Feast, kids free fishing days,

fishery survey results reports to lake associations

and watershed committees.

Grant Writing and Administration for resource

protection, restoration and enhancement

projects

with

particular

emphasis

collaborative projects.

Develop and foster working relationships

with Federal and State Agencies to improve

management efficiency, develop resource

use agreements and improve productive

communication

with

other

resource

management agencies.

Wildlife Harvest monitoring including Deer

Check Station, furbearer registration and other

special inspections of harvested fish and game.

Conduct Fisheries and Wildlife Habitat Surveys,

Inventories and Assessments.

Maintain Tribal Repository/Exercise of American

Indian Religious Freedom Act.

COMMERCIAL GREAT LAKES FISHING:

Issue Commercial Fishing licenses: Captain,

Helper and Subsistence

Issue Commercial Vessel Observer Permits

ORA Boat Registration

Department 6: Membership

“Waabagonii Giizis” (Blossom Moon)

Department Manager: Monique Clifford

Telephone: (231) 534-7670

Email: Monique.Clifford@gtb-nsn.gov

The Membership office offers services to applicants

seeking to become members of the Grand Traverse

Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. These

applications are evaluated and processed based on

the criteria outlined in the Tribal Constitution, Article

II, and the Enrollment Ordinance approved by Tribal

Council, effective October 2, 2006. We also assist the

Election Board. Additionally, we provide necessary

data to all Tribal programs needing statistical data

for applications and mailings. On a daily basis the

staff makes updates to a database that manages data

on member identification and vital statistics such as

addresses and phone numbers.

This database is also used to generate mailing

lists and labels as well as reports for other Tribal

programs including the Tribal Newsletter. The

database also stores the photographs and signatures

of Tribal Members to provide Tribal IDs and it stores

genealogical information. We also have improved

our Tribal ID cards. The new cards have a holographic

overlay and are more secure than the previous

edition.

Other services offered through the Membership

office include voter registration for Tribal elections

and certifications for Michigan Indian Tuition Waiver

Applications and Native American Employment

Certifications. We also verify membership for Indian

Child Welfare and Tribal Members who need CDIB’s

for other reasons.

Department 7: Human Services

“Miinan Giizis” (Berry Moon)

Interim Department Manager: Denise Johnson

Telephone: (231) 534-7255

Email: Denise.Johnson@gtb-nsn.gov

ANISHNAABEK FAMILY SERVICES

AFS Supervisor: Denise Johnson

Main Phone Line: 231-534-7124

Email: AFS@gtb-nsn.gov

Anishnaabek Family Services (AFS) Mission is to build

a healthy community and strengthen our families

by providing comprehensive strength-based and

culturally appropriate services that promote healthy

lifestyles and self-sufficiency in prevention and

intervention services. Develop family programing

for the community that creates awareness about the

services available to prevent child abuse and neglect.

Prevention Services: Provided on a voluntary basis

where there is an identified potential for child abuse

or neglect.

Intervention Services:

Provided when a

substantiated report of abuse and neglect occurs

within the six-county service area resulting in Tribal

or State court involvement.

Licensing: Licenses foster care homes on the

reservation.

Adult Services: Provides support, advocacy, referrals,

and resources to vulnerable adults and Elders; assists

with Adult Protective Services matters

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES

Main Phone Line: (231) 534-7090

Email: GOVBehavioralHealth@gtb-nsn.gov

GTB Behavioral Health Services (BHS) strives to

provide the highest quality, professional care

while utilizing a variety of services and treatment

modalities to address the issues of substance usage

and mental health while adhering to Tribal, Federal

and State professional ethical codes and standards of

conduct within a safe and confidential environment.

To incorporate cultural teachings and ceremonies

within the treatment modalities to foster optimum

balance in the mental, emotional, physical and

spiritual aspects of the whole person and their family.

BHS is a CARF Accredited Outpatient Substance Abuse

Program providing Culturally integrated clientcentered care by licensed and Certified Therapists.

BHS assists with outpatient & inpatient residential

treatment referrals for substance use disorders and

in the development of ongoing sober support to

individuals upon their return to the community.

A contractual Psychiatrist is available to provide

medication management and psychiatric evaluations

for adult clientele.

Department 7: Human Services

“Miinan Giizis” (Berry Moon)

BHS PROVIDES AND/OR REFERRAL FOR:

Individual Counseling

Weekly Zoom Peer Recovery Support Meetings

Adult Psychiatric Evaluations

Adult Psychiatric Medication Review

Tribal Opiate Treatment

Chemical Dependency Assessments

Mental Health Assessments

Secretary of State Driver’s License Evaluation

Traditional Healer Services Sweat Lodge Ceremony

Auricular Acupuncture, Massage Therapy, &

Other Alternative Therapies

Direct services can be provided at each of the four

State Licensed locations:

Types of Emergency Assistance Available:

Food assistance and/or GTB Food pantry

Emergency Heating/Cooling Assistance

Weatherization

Various Emergency Assistance based on Grants

received. (i.e.: LIHEAP, CSBG)

Documents required with application to be

considered complete:

Tribal ID for each household member with

current updated information

Driver’s License or State ID for each adult

member

Peshawbestown – Medicine Lodge

GTB 3-Mile Office – Traverse City

Social Security Card for each household member

Benzie Office

Proof of all household income

Charlevoix Office

Acceptable proof of income: Most recent 4 check

stubs or Award letter for SSR or SSDI

Bank statement showing direct deposit of SSDI,

SSR or other Retirement/Pension

Income Guidelines:

HUMAN SERVICES ASSISTANCE

Telephone: (231) 534-7910

Email: HumanServices@gtb-nsn.gov

Human Service’s mission is to promote community

self-sufficiency, physical & mental well-being for Tribal

citizens within the six-county service area through

direct service provision, education, & community

involvement within the spirit of self-governance

Income guidelines are based on income from

employment, fisheries income, odd jobs, and the

like. Also, unearned income such as: unemployment,

Social Security (disability and retirement), Per Capita,

retirement pensions, child support and the like.

Automatic qualifying incomes and Programs, TANF,

SSI VA Pension/Retirement or Food stamps. One

must be actively participating in these programs

and provide official documentation. Households

will be deemed eligible based on the income, based

on household size. Household- all persons residing

at one physical address, regardless of relationship.

Households not participating in an automatic

qualifying program, will be deemed eligible based on

the household income, based on household size.

Department 8: Health Services

“Minoomin Giizis” (Rice Moon)

Department Manager: Sonya Zotigh

Telephone: (231) 534-7241

Email: Sonya.Zotigh2@gtb-nsn.gov

GRAND TRAVERSE BAND FAMILY

HEALTH CLINIC

Main Phone Line: (231) 534-7200

Emergency Closure Line: (231) 534-7669

For more information visit www.gtbindians.org

Select ‘Health Services’

The GTB Family Health Clinic is a family practice

clinic providing comprehensive medical cure for

the whole family, offering preventative exams,

well-health physical referrals, immunizations, and

chronic disease management and other urgent and

non-urgent services. Appointments can be scheduled

by calling (231) 534-7200. Clinic hours are currently

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Monday through Friday. The

Receptionist will ask for your current address,

telephone number and insurance information. This

assists in the billing process and check in.

Please bring your Tribal ID/State ID at each visit.

PRESCRIPTION REFILLS

Prescriptions can be called in to the prescription

refill line by dialing the clinic direct at (231) 534-7200

and choosing option 2. This line is checked daily, and

prescriptions are filled within 48-72 hours. For any

urgent prescription needs, please call the front desk

at (231) 534-7200.

GTB PHARMACY COMING SOON!

The Grand Traverse Band Pharmacy is thrilled to

announce that it will be opening soon at the Medicine

Lodge. We will offer prescription services, including

medication therapy management, as well as delivery

and mailing of prescriptions to those who qualify.

To be eligible for prescription services at GTB

Pharmacy, you must have an established relationship

with the GTB Family Health Center. Our pharmacy

will be staffed by two pharmacists and two licensed

pharmacy technicians.

We are looking forward to becoming a part of the

dynamic healthcare system here at the Medicine

Lodge!

HEALTH TRANSPORTATION

Telephone: (231) 534-7222

Transportation is provided to GTB Members who

are disabled and Elderly who have no other means

of transportation, and are a priority for services.

Requests can be made by calling Transportation

Hot-line at (231) 534-7222 and made 72 hours in

advance. Please leave your name, phone number,

appointment date-time-location with a detailed

message. Our Transporter will contact you regarding

your transportation request.

*Please remember that transportation is dependent

upon the availability of the Transporter. Client should

have no other means of transportation available to

them, and other resources including, but not limited

to VA, FIA, Bata, family members and friends should

be utilized before contacting the Transporter. All

patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by

a parent or guardian.

The Health Transporter cannot assist in any medical

decision making or medical guidance on your behalf.

In the event GTB Tribal offices are closed due to

inclement weather, there will be no transportation

provided. Unless previously arranged, transportation

requests outside the six-county service area must be

made well in advance, and in a timely fashion in order

to complete the request and necessary paperwork.

Department 8: Health Services

“Minoomin Giizis” (Rice Moon)

COMMUNITY HEALTH

REPRESENTATIVES (CHR’S)

*CHR Specialist Supervisor: Tamra Newton

*Leelanau / Benzie:

(231) 534-7205

CHR Specialist: Ranee Campo

Grand Traverse / Charlevoix:

(231) 534-7772

Our CHR’s mission statement is to provide quality

outreach health care services within our communities.

Office hours are typically from 8a.m. – 5p.m daily,

Monday through Friday. Our Representatives are

available to assist in weekly vitals, medication refills,

assist with filling out paperwork, locating resources

for services that are available in their counties,

organizing workshops, and assist in transportation

if needed to health appointments, prescription

pickup and delivery, and assist in the coordination

of referrals. The CHR’s work in conjunction with the

Medical & Dental Clinic’s for coordination of care,

and provide for home visiting.

* For more information, please contact your local

Community Health Representative.

GRAND TRAVERSE BAND DENTAL CLINIC

Telephone: (231) 534-7211

The Grand Traverse Band Dental Clinic is located

in the Medicine Lodge and provides dental exams,

cleanings, x-rays, crowns, selective implant services,

as well as a variety of other services and procedures.

*Emergency dental services are provided daily.

We currently have 4 dental operatories and are staffed

with a full-time Chief Dentist, Dental Assistants, and

Receptionist, and part-time Dentist and Hygienist.

Current operational hours are 8AM-5PM M-F. New

patient paperwork is available from our receptionist.

Be sure to have your current address, telephone

number, tribal ID, and insurance information. This

assists in record keeping, billing, and check-in.

Department 8: Health Services

“Minoomin Giizis” (Rice Moon)

PURCHASED/REFERRED CARE (PRC)

PRC Manager: Stella Bailey

Desk Phone: (231) 534-7931

PRC Representative: Tiffany Gilmore

PRC Representative: (231) 534-7210

Purchased/Referred Care relies upon Federal and

RAO dollars to support dental, medical, and optical

services under the program, and serves eligible

members in Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Grand

Traverse, Leelanau, and Manistee Counties.

Priority Levels of Service are established at the

beginning of each fiscal year in order to provide

that funds will be available for services most needed

by membership. Services will be covered based on

availability of funds. If funds deplete the priority

will go to Emergency/Urgent Level. Descriptions of

Priority Levels of Service for Medical, Dental, and

Optical are available upon request, and posted in the

GTB Newsletter, and other Government buildings. We

regret we cannot provide all services to all members;

we are limited in our resources.

When direct services cannot provide the necessary

health care for our clients, PRC eligible clients are

then referred to outside Providers for care and

follow up. Clients are encouraged to continually

update their information with the PRC office, to keep

benefits active.

Failure to do so may result in denied claims. PRC

operates on a pre-approval basis. Appointments

must be called in 48 hours in advance so that priorauthorization can be entered for billing-processing.

Actions outside this procedure may result in payment

denial. Appointments can be called in to the PRC

Hotline anytime at (231) 534- 7223, this line is checked

daily.

Emergency services must be reported within 72

hours of incident. Elders have up to 30 days to

notify PRC office. An emergency is defined as: Any

medical condition for which immediate medical

attention is necessary to prevent the death or

serious impairment of an individual’s health. With

everyone’s cooperation we can provide the help to

those most in need of medical intervention. Please

follow the procedures outlined so the system can

operate smoothly for everyone.

Please keep your consent form updated yearly if you

depend on someone to manage your medical affairs.

Report all appointments on the hot line number

listed. This ensures timely processing of billing and

claims. For any questions or concerns please contact

your PRC Representative for assistance.

If you have any questions or concerns about PRC

program, please feel free to contact the PRC Manager.

Department 8: Health Services

“Minoomin Giizis” (Rice Moon)

BENEFITS COORDINATOR

Benefits Coordinator: Vacant

Main Phone Line: (231) 534-7731

Our Benefits Coordinator assists Purchased Referred Care in determining alternate health resources, a

requirement for P.R.C. Health coverage. Office hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

The Grand Traverse Band Family Health Clinic has a community partnership with the Department of Health

and Human Services. This allows the Benefits Coordinator to assist with Medicaid. This is the website if you

choose to apply on your own: https://newmibridges.michigan.gov

The Benefits Coordinator is trained through the Michigan Medicare Assistance Program and is a certified MMAP

councilor. You may reach out for additional information or assistance with Medicare part B (reimbursement)

and Medicare part D, Extra Help, and Dual Coverage. These are government websites that have useful

information: www.ssa.gov and www.medicare.gov

The Benefits Coordinator trained with the Social Security Administration to support applying for disability

and provide direction through the process.

Our Benefits Coordinator is a Tribal Veterans Representative and can offer information to Veterans requesting

resources or assistance. If unable to assist she will refer you to the local Veterans Service Officer.

YOUR MEDICAL INFORMATION CANNOT BE DISCUSSED WITH ANYONE WITHOUT YOUR WRITTEN CONSENT.

Department 9: Tribal Court

“Aandaandenoo Giizis” (Changing Leaves Moon)

Department Manager: Chief Judge

Telephone: (231) 534-7050

Email: TribalCourt@gtb-nsn.gov

CONTACT LIST:

Phone Number

Cell Phone Number

Main Line

231-534-7050 N/A

Court Administrator

231-534-7041 231-866-1238

Program Director/Court Clerk

231-534-7030

N/A

Assostant Probation Officer / Court Clerk

231-534-7027 231-492-6863

Probation Officer

231-534-7546 231-631-4329

Bailiff/Civil Court Clerk

231-534-7090 231-866-6014

Court Clerk

231-534-7080 N/A

Article V of the Grand Traverse Band Constitution

established the Tribal Judiciary as a separate branch

of government with authority to hear matters

arising under the Tribal Constitution, ordinances,

regulations and/or judicial decisions consistent with

self-determination and the Tribe’s sovereign powers.

The Tribal Judiciary consists of the Tribal Court (with

one (1) full time Chief Judge and one (1) part time

Associate Judge) and the Tribal Appellate Court (with

three (3) Appellate Judges).

The Tribal Court (trial level court) is a court of general

jurisdiction and hears all civil, criminal, juvenile,

traffic, child protection, minor trust, fishing/hunting,

etc. The Tribal Appellate Court hears all appeals from

the Tribal Court. The Tribal Judiciary meets every

quarter and makes policy decisions concerning the

adoption of court rules, policies, etc.

The Tribal Court is open Monday through Friday

from 7:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. (Open all day). Cases may be

heard after normal business hours to accommodate

Tribal Member schedules upon request.

Mailing Address: 2605 N. West Bay Shore Drive,

Peshawbestown, MI 49682.

Physical Address: 2809 N. West Bay Shore Drive,

Peshawbestown, MI 49682

Data Entry Clerk / Clerical Support Assistant

231-534-7020 N/A

SDVCJ Project Coordinator

231-534-7377

231-463-8487

CTAS PA-3 Court Clerk / Peacemaker/Program Director

231-534-7028

231-492-3047

VAWA Tribal Court Survivor Liaison/Program Director

231-534-7381

231-492-7380

VAWA Intensive Probation Officer

231-534-7024

231-492-6771

CTAS PA-3 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE COURT

PROJECT - GRANT

The CTAS PA-3 Domestic Violence Court Project grant

was awarded in Fiscal Year 2021. The goal of the grant

is to strengthen the GTB Tribal Justice System by

providing training, and to plan, create, implement

and operate a specialty court for Domestic Violence

crimes. The program focuses on a victim-centered

approach to court cases, taking into consideration

the needs and interests of victims of domestic

violence during the court process. The program

also focuses on reducing offender recidivism by

using evidence-based practices for sentencing and

probation.

Department 9: Tribal Court

“Aandaandenoo Giizis” (Changing Leaves Moon)

COURT APPOINTED ATTORNEYS

The Tribal Court contracts with attorneys to

represent Tribal Members and/or Tribal Member

interests in the Tribal Court. All the court appointed

attorneys are Michigan Bar Licensed attorneys and

available at no cost for:

◊ Criminal cases (represents Tribal Member &

SDVCJ defendants);

◊ Guardian Ad Litems (represents interests of

Tribal Member minors and incompetents);

◊ Probating Wills/Estates (represents decedent

Tribal Members);

◊ Child Protection (represents Tribal Member

parents in ICW cases); and,

◊ Domestic Violence (represents victims in select

civil matters).

FEE SCHEDULE

The following is the Tribal Judiciary Fee Schedule

at the time of printing. Some fees can be waived

contingent upon approval of a fee waiver

petition.

◊ Civil (including divorce and adoption): $100

◊ Probate (including guardianship): $100

◊ Consent Judgments: $100

◊ Foreign Judgments: $100

◊ Minor Trust: $100

◊ Child Support: $100

◊ Small Claims: $60

◊ Appeals: $150

◊ Civil Jury Demand: $100

◊ Garnishment: $50

◊ Motions (attorneys only): $20

◊ Certified Mail: $5

◊ Personal Service: Actual Cost

◊ Marriage: $50 + mileage

◊ Copies of Court Documents: $0.25/page

◊ Certified Copies: $10

◊ Transcripts (actual costs): $250 Deposit

TRIBAL COURT MISCELLANEOUS

SERVICES

◊ Sign Language Interpreter. Available upon

request to any party in a Tribal Court case.

◊ Spanish Language Interpreter. Available

upon request to any party in a Tribal Court

case.

◊ Notary Public Services. Available free of

charge to all during regular court hours.

◊ Probation Services. In-Home Tether and

Alcohol Monitoring (costs apply).

◊ Drug Testing, PBT Testing available to court

clients and community (costs apply).

◊ MENS & AWARE program fees paid up front

by Court but reimbursed by client. Available

to Tribal Court case clients only.

Department 9: Tribal Court

“Aandaandenoo Giizis” (Changing Leaves Moon)

Department Manager: Chief Judge

Telephone: (231) 534-7050

Email: TribalCourt@gtb-nsn.gov

PEACEMAKING - MNAWEEJEENDIWIN

Mnaweejeendiwin serves the physical, mental

health,

spiritual,

emotional

and

educational

wellbeing of Anishnaabek through development

of traditional processes to resolve conflicts and

promote a healthier lifestyle. Mnaweejeendiwin

was established as an alternative to the “present”

Tribal/State court system and applies traditional

methods of conflict resolution and problem solving

through consensus to build a stronger and healthier

family

and

community.

Mnaweejeendiwin

clients are Tribal Members, members of other

federally recognized tribes and non- Natives in our

surrounding communities. Clients may seek the

services of Mnaweejeendiwin on their own or may

be referred by the Tribal Court. Mnaweejeendiwin

Logo By: Paul Raphael

SPECIAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

CRIMINAL JURISDICTION (SDVCJ)

services are primarily available in the six-county

service

area

with

limited

services

available

outside the six-county service area contingent on

Mnaweejeendiwin availability.

The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa

Indians (GTB) is an implementing tribe of SDVCJ. The

SDVCJ program seeks to implement and exercise

returned jurisdiction and sentencing authority

as enumerated in the 2013 reauthorization of the

Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). The 2013 VAWA

provisions recognize and reaffirm the inherent

right of Tribal justice systems to prosecute crimes

of domestic violence, dating violence, and certain

violations of protection orders committed by all

persons,

including

non-Native,

against

Native

individuals on Tribal land. The SDVCJ Program funds

an SDVCJ Public Defender to represent indigent

defendants charged under SDVCJ laws in Tribal Court.

Program objectives include strengthening the GTB

criminal justice system, ensuring victim rights, and

holding perpetrators accountable.

GRANTS TO INDIAN TRIBAL

GOVERNMENTS PROGRAMS

The Grants to Indian Tribal Governments Programs

(GITGP) was awarded to GTB in Fiscal Year 2023. This

is a three-year grant. VAWA crimes include domestic

violence, dating violence, sexual assault, sex

trafficking and stalking.

The program will provide a VAWA Intensive Probation

Officer who is able to cover VAWA specific crimes.

The program will also provide a Tribal Court Survivor

Liaison-Program Manager. This position is a systemsbased Victim Advocate for survivors of VAWA specific

crimes stemming from GTB Tribal Court cases.

The program can provide civil legal representation

for survivors of VAWA specific crimes.

Department 10: Natural Resources

“Niibiishan Binaakwenoon Giizis”

(Falling Leaves Moon)

Interim Department Manager: Erik Olsen

Telephone: (231) 534-7500

Email: Erik.Olsen@gtb-nsn.gov

3505 Putnam Rd.

Peshawbestown, MI 49682

Email: Erik.Olsen@gtb-nsn.gov

The Natural Resources Department provides the

Tribal Membership with advocacy for hunting,

fishing, gathering, and trapping rights in the ceded

treaty territories. The mission of NRD is to protect

and enhance the natural resources gifted to the

Anishinabek by the Creator for past, present, and

future generations.

GREAT LAKES

Department Manager: Erik Olsen

ENVIRONMENTAL

Desk Phone: (231) 534-7364

Department Manager: Courtney Hessell

Email: Erik.Olsen@gtb-nsn.gov

Desk Phone: (231) 534-7378

◊ Issue Commercial Fishing licenses: Captain,

Helper and Subsistence

◊ Issue Commercial Vessel Observer Permits

CORA Boat Registration

Email: Courtney.Hessell@gtb-nsn.gov

◊ NEPA Preparation and Compliance

◊ Phase I Contamination Surveys

◊ Surface Water Quality Monitoring

◊ Operation and maintenance of the Tribe’s

two commercial marina (Arthur Duhamel

Marina, Peshawbestown, MI, Beaver’s Landing

Marina, St. James, MI)

◊ Collect fisheries data from the Tribal

commercial fishery and open-water assessments

in support of generating sustainable annual

harvest guidelines.

◊ Wetland Delineation

◊ Watershed Assessment

◊ Stream Assessment

◊ Stream bank Stabilization

◊ Soil Erosion Permits (on Trust parcels)

◊ Technical Assistance

Department 10: Natural Resources

“Niibiishan Binaakwenoon Giizis”

(Falling Leaves Moon)

INLAND

Department Manager: Dan Mays

Desk Phone: (231) 534-7291

Email: Dan.Mays@gtb-nsn.gov

◊ Produces, reviews, and implements policies

and Regulation booklets, with Inland Hunting,

Fishing and Gathering Rights as recommended

by the Natural Resources and Environmental

Committee

◊ Develop and foster working relationships

with Federal and State Agencies to improve

management efficiency, develop resource

use agreements and improve productive

communication with other resource management

agencies.

◊ Wildlife harvest monitoring including furbearer

registration and other special inspections of

harvested fish and game.

◊ Conduct Fisheries and Wildlife

inventories and assessments.

surveys,

◊ Native Species Restoration-Operation of GTB’s

Lake Sturgeon Streamside Rearing Facility and

future re-introduction of Arctic Grayling.

AGRICULTURE

Department Manager: William Derouin

Desk Phone: (231) 534-7023

Email: William.Derouin@gtb-nsn.gov

◊ Develop relationships with granting agencies

related to agriculture programming at GTB.

◊ Establish relationships with local producers,

tribal entities, and government agencies to

leverage GTB agricultural resources for GTB

member benefit

◊ Demonstrate sustainable farming practices, soil

management and food production techniques

◊ Offer agricultural advice to GTB members home

gardens and agricultural businesses.

◊ Identify organic waste streams at GTB to begin

composting organic waste for use as compost/

fertilizer

◊ Maintain existing GTB agricultural properties

◊ Provide education programming related to

agriculture for GTB members

◊ Advise Tribal Council on agricultural land

acquisitions

Department 10: Natural Resources

“Niibiishan Binaakwenoon Giizis”

(Falling Leaves Moon)

Department Manager: William Derouin

Desk Phone: (231) 534-7023

Email: William.Derouin@gtb-nsn.gov

AGRICULTURE & FOOD SOVEREIGNTY

Formed in 2019 after years of effort and coordination

by tribal members, the Agriculture & Food

Sovereignty Department is the vehicle by which

The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa

Indians pursues the ambitious goal of establishing

food sovereignty in the future. What does “Food

Sovereignty” look like? In a bright future envisioned

by the GTB councilors and members who worked

to establish this new department, the Tribe is able

to produce food and food products for the tribal

community.

UTILIZING EXISTING

AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES:

Over the 6 - County Service Area; Charlevoix, Antrim,

Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Benzie, and Manistee, GTB

has over 1,000+ acres of agricultural lands. These lands

range from former apple orchard in Peshawbestown

and near Turtle Creek Casino, to a former dairy farm

adjacent to the GTB Charlevoix Satellite Office. These

lands are valuable assets that can be put to use

growing food and medicine for current members

and future generations. Currently, the Agriculture

and food Sovereignty Department is determining the

“low hanging fruit”, or most readily accessible lands,

that can be worked into production.

Department 10: Natural Resources

“Niibiishan Binaakwenoon Giizis”

(Falling Leaves Moon)

ANNUAL SERVICES AND PRODUCTS

OFFERED TO GTB COMMUNITY

◊

GTB AGRICULTURAL WORKSHOPS: We host

a range of workshops throughout the year

based on seasonal activities. This includes crop

planting and harvest, sugar bush workshops,

deer processing workshops, canning workshops

and more. These activities are posted in the GTB

Newsletter.

GTB-MADE FARM PRODUCTS: Every year GTB

Agriculture & Food Sovereignty Department

distributes over $12,000 in produce, fertilizer,

meals, plant starts and seed. This is done at our

workshops, GTB Health Fair, GTB Pow-Wow, and

NRD Fair and Feast

FOOD PREPARATION FOR GTB EVENTS: GTB

Agriculture Staff have been tasked with cooking

for many large GTB Events. This has included the

MMIP Event, National Night Out, End of Summer

Bash, and Fair and Feast. GTB Agriculture Staff have

ServSafe Certification for Kitchen Management

and Food Handling. This food preparation has

included recipe cards and cooking instructions

for meals to help incentivize healthy eating.

GTB FOOD PANTRY FOOD PURCHASING: 2023-2025

GTB Agriculture has been the main supplier of

food for the GTB Food Pantries after receiving over

$1.2 million in a USDA – Local Food Purchasing

Grant. This grant has allowed GTB Food Pantries

to receive all locally produced food. GTB has

also provided food distribution contracts to a

network of food pantries throughout the Grand

Traverse Region, becoming a leader in providing

for people in need. We partnered with several

non-profits that specialize in purchasing and

distributing food. This has greatly increased the

access to quality locally produced food in our

region.

◊

DISC GOLF COURSE MAINTENANCE: With

the proper equipment to help maintain the

Strongheart Disc Golf Course, GTB Agriculture

has helped to mow and maintain the current disc

golf course since 2020.

◊

COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE: Over the past

year we have built 4 new pavilions for the GTB

community. 1 at the Peshawbestown Farm, 1

at the Strongheart Center, 1 at the GTB Sugar

Bush, and 1 at the Benzie Satellite Office. These

structures are open for community use and will

be used to host programing.

◊

AGRICULTURAL

PLANNING

AND

GRANT

WRITING: Much of the growth in the Agriculture

Department is spurred by grant funding. This has

meant that the Department grows in the direction

of successfully received grants. We continue

to gather input from the tribal community via

survey data and from GTB Tribal Council via

Work Sessions to help shape the direction of the

program. Potential future areas of growth include:

bison herd management, orchard management,

sugar bush expansion, and building a commercial

kitchen for community food processing.

Department 10: Natural Resources

“Niibiishan Binaakwenoon Giizis”

(Falling Leaves Moon)

Program Manager: Brett Fessell

Desk Phone: (231) 534-7857

Email: Brett.Fessell@gtb-nsn.gov

RIVER RESTORATION

◊

Build and apply collaborative relationships,

technical capacity, and community connections

to restore, document and showcase the vital

importance of healing watersheds and associated

natural features for future generations-Noojimon’

Ziibi-Healing Rivers

◊

Technical assistance and guidance on NRCS

Conservation Practices, stream and riparian

corridor restoration projects and monitoring and

evaluation efforts to document improvements of

ecological functions related to the projects.

◊

Grant writing and program administration

for projects related to resource protection,

restoration and enhancement projects with

particular emphasis on collaborative projects.

◊

Consultation and project development related to

watershed restoration initiatives, projects and

programs.

◊

Stream and riparian corridor restoration

◊

Aquatic Organism Passage (AOP)

◊

Dam removal-river restoration

◊

Forest community establishment

◊

Invasive species management

◊

NRCS program conservation practice guidance

◊

Technical Assistance and Guidance

◊

Building effective restoration and conservation

partnerships

◊

Grant writing and program administration

◊

Stream mapping, monitoring and functional

assessments

◊

Consultation on land conservation and protection

◊

Traditional

Ecological

application guidance

◊

Restoration career guidance, mentoring and

education connections

◊

Education, outreach, advocacy and community

relations

Knowledge

(TEK)

Department 10: Natural Resources

“Niibiishan Binaakwenoon Giizis”

(Falling Leaves Moon)

OTHER

◊ Hunting, fishing, trapping, gathering licenses

and special use permits.

◊ Issue Turkey and Deer

appropriate seasons.