The LTBB CEP (Conservation Enforcement Program) is a division created and established within the Tribe’s Natural Resource Department. Primary duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to the intended achievement of compliance with the 2000 Great Lakes Consent Decree and the 2007 Inland Consent Decree; these Decrees apply to the 1836 Treaty Ceded Territory lands and waters that members exercise within according to Federal Court affirmed Article 13 rights. Tribal self-regulation is also apparent on the LTBB 1855 Reservation with rules and regulations enacted by the LTBB Legislative body to make laws in accordance with Article VII of the LTBB Constitution.
Other CEP duties include the enforcement of the Tribe’s Wetlands Protection Statute, Solid Waste Disposal Statute, and Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety Regulations. Authorization for enforcement of these statutes and other rules, regulations and laws is provided for in the Tribe’s Natural Resource Protection Statute.
Secondary duties shall include the enforcement of the general criminal and civil codes of the Tribe, mutual aid, search and rescue and emergency management.
Currently, the CEP staffs 2 Conservation Officers (CO’s) and a Chief Conservation Officer. These officers have obtained additional authority through a Deputation Agreement between LTBB and the Bureau of Indian Affairs resulting in the issuance of Special Law Enforcement Commissions to Officers of the CEP which enables LTBB to assist in the enforcement of applicable federal criminal statutes in Indian Country including federal fish and wildlife laws.
The CEP also actively engages itself in the education and community policing concept by offering hunter safety, bow and trapper education classes/workshops as well as sharing information regarding the implementation and continued existence of Tribal treaty rights.
The CEP is committed to providing fair and reasonable enforcement while preserving, protecting and respecting all Tribal cultures, traditions and interests.
For more information regarding the Natural Resource Department
contact Administrative Assistant Debra Smithkey-Browne @ (231) 242-1670 or the Conservation Enforcement Program:
Chief Conservation Officer Kevin Willis 231-242-1673
Conservation Officer Roger Willis 231-242-1674
Conservation Officer Matt Robertson 231-242-1687
