It is important to remain bi-partisan while working together to ensure that federal programs are fully funded at the levels for which they are authorized. I am encouraged that we are taking steps in the right direction. We in Congress need to make issues affecting Native Americans one of our highest priorities and create opportunity for economic development. The best thing for our nation as a whole is for Indian Country to prosper. In general the major natural resource is the grassland which supports the ranching industry on most of the reservations.
Farmland generates some revenues for the tribes and their members.
The area has been experiencing problems with prairie dogs, noxious weed infestation, solid waste issues, and the potential for water management and water rights issues. According to the 1990 census, two of the top five poorest counties are located in South Dakota reservations. Thus, providing for members in such an economically depressed area is of major concern to the tribes. I am continuing to work to ensure that the tribes can become more self-sufficient and less reliant on the federal government for support of their members. As we all know, the end result of welfare reform is sustained, secure retention of employment.