Some of the chemicals in the ground and surface waters exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencies limits in Grand Portage, White Earth, and Fond du Lac Indian Reservations of Minnesota. The only reservation with a healthy water supply of the four reports from the U.S. Geological Society was Red Lake in northwestern Minnesota. Since the re-establishment of wild rice generally takes many years, it is necessary to monitor and continue to reseed project areas. When COF began in 1991, only a few hundred pounds of rice were broadcast. Now 5-6 tons of wild rice are used to enhance or establish wild rice beds.
Partnerships continue to be the key to successful efforts.
Increased funding will ensure the Circle of Flight projects will continue to enhance ecosystems on reservations in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. Bibliography Brinson, M. M. and R. Reinhardt. The Role of Reference Wetlands in Functional Assessment and Mitigation. Ecological Applications . Bureau of Indian Affairs, Minneapolis Area.