Past, Present and Future - Water on the Web
by Stephanie Good
Native American communities currently hold 4% of U.S. land, the second largest holding interest after the federal government. In the 1900s, much of this land was deemed unusable, but today many natural resources, namely mineral resources, are being discovered on these lands. The conflict between treaty rights and the mining interests of large corporations are just one of many conflicts existing over the use of Native American resources. Treaty rights over hunting and fishing, forest resources, water resources, and clean land and air initiatives are also being challenged. The following resources represent a variety of cultural and historical perspectives from different Native American communities, voices not often heard, about the environment and conservation issues and policies--with a special emphasis on tribes from the Great Lakes area. Be sure to check out the recommended reading list for Wisconsin residents or for UW faculty, staff and students for further reading.