During a recent government meeting, tribal leaders raised significant concerns regarding jurisdiction and sovereignty issues affecting wildlife management on their reservation. The discussion highlighted the complexities arising from the checkerboard land ownership pattern, which spans two states and three counties.

Tribal representatives emphasized that their tribe operates its own Fish and Wildlife Department and has established tribal codes governing wildlife management. However, they expressed frustration over state permits being issued that allow external entities to harvest wildlife within the reservation's borders. This situation raises critical questions about the tribe's authority and the protection of its natural resources.

The leaders called for a reevaluation of the current regulatory framework to ensure that tribal sovereignty is respected and that the tribe retains control over its wildlife resources. The meeting underscored the need for collaboration between state and tribal authorities to address these pressing issues effectively.