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Prescribed burns planned for this spring

Prior Lake, Minn. – The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) is planning prescribed burns this spring in several locations on SMSC lands listed below. The SMSC conducts prescribed burns on SMSC lands and, upon request and through mutual aid agreements, in neighboring jurisdictions each spring and fall as an effective land stewardship tool. 

SMSC locations this spring*:

  • Prairies located northeast of the junction of County Road 79 and County Road 72
  • Prairie located to the northwest of the junction of Tintaocanku and McKenna Road
  • Prairie located to the east of Hoċokata Ṫi
  • Oak savanna located northeast of the junction of County Road 83 and County Road 82
  • Prairie located northeast of the junction of County Road 83 and County Road 42
  • Prairie located northeast of the junction of Dakotah Parkway and Wacipi Drive
  • Oak savanna located south of Dean’s Lake and north of Eagle Creek Boulevard 

* Subject to change depending on weather and site conditions

A prescribed burn is an intentionally lit, controlled fire used by land managers to replicate natural fire events. Before Europeans colonized this area, fires were sometimes started by lightning but many more times by Dakota and other Indigenous people. They burned areas for many reasons, but they were mostly used to clear land for agriculture; to improve grazing and forage for game species like bison; to reduce brush in woodlands, which helped with easier travel; and to boost plant and seed production.

Fire helps native plants in prairies, oak savannas, and some wetlands stay healthy and vigorous. These plants provide excellent habitat for species, such as the meadowlark, dickcissel, monarch butterfly and other wildlife. Fire is also an excellent tool to reduce weeds and other invasive woody species that outcompete native plants for resources.

All prescribed burns are designed to meet ecological objectives and are entirely dependent upon weather conditions, such as relative humidity, temperature, and wind speed and direction. Exact dates of the burns will be announced on ShakopeDakota.org and the SMSC’s X account (formerly known as Twitter).

The SMSC wildland fire program coordinates with neighboring entities, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and other state and federal agencies to lead and assist with prescribed burns within the region. During prescribed burns, trained burn crew members monitor weather conditions to protect air quality and road visibility to minimize potential impacts to neighboring communities. 

About the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community
The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community is a federally recognized, sovereign Dakota tribal government located southwest of Minneapolis/St. Paul. Following a Dakota tradition of generosity, the SMSC is one of the top philanthropists in Minnesota and is the largest contributor to other tribal governments and causes across the country. It is a strong community partner and a leader in protecting and restoring natural resources. The SMSC’s government, Gaming Enterprise and various other enterprises are collectively the largest employer in Scott County and attract millions of visitors to the region.

Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community’s Hoċokata Ṫi named 2024 National Medal for Museum and Library Service Award Finalist

Prior Lake, Minn. – The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) announced today that Hoċokata Ṫi (pronounced ho-cho-kah-tah-tee), the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC)’s cultural center, is among 30 finalists for the 2024 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. Hoċokata Ṫi is the only institution in Minnesota to be selected as a finalist for this award and is also the only Native American institution among the finalists.

The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that demonstrate significant impact in their communities. For 30 years, the award has honored institutions that demonstrate excellence in service to their communities. Hoċokata Ṫi, which means the “lodge at the center of the camp” in Dakota, opened in 2019 to support the SMSC’s preservation efforts. Its mission is to interpret and encourage Mdewakanton Dakota cultural heritage, language and history by sustaining this inherent knowledge through exhibitions, preservation and education.

“Hoċokata Ṫi’s programming has been very meaningful to our tribe, offering a place to gather, connect and learn – all centered around preserving our history and culture for future generations,” said SMSC Chairman Cole Miller. “We are honored to be among the finalists for this award from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. This recognition is a true testament to the incredible staff at Hoċokata Ṫi – many of whom are tribal members – who are dedicated to sharing our story.”

Every aspect of Hoċokata Ṫi – its education classes, public exhibit and building design – honors Mdewakanton Dakota culture. It provides a space for tribal members to practice cultural activities and encourage the passing down of knowledge. It also invites the broader community to learn about the tribe and its culture and history through its 3,805-square-foot public exhibit, called “Mdewakanton: Dwellers of the Spirit Lake.”

Thousands of individuals, as well as hundreds of educators and students, senior groups, and professional organizations, have participated in programming at Hoċokata Ṫi. Its staff have developed resources for educators, including professional development sessions in cultural competency, tribal narratives and integrating Indigenous perspectives.

“The 30 National Medal finalists from across the United States showcase the tremendous abilities of libraries and museums to serve as trusted, dynamic public spaces that meet the needs of their communities,” said IMLS Acting Director Cyndee Landrum. “The Institute of Museum and Library Services is honored to recognize these outstanding

institutions. We congratulate them on their collective effort to respond to community needs, preserve diverse history and culture, and create a sense of belonging for all Americans.”

National Medal winners will be announced in late May. Representatives from winning institutions will be honored for their extraordinary contributions during an in-person National Medals Ceremony in Washington, D.C., this summer.

To see the full list of finalists and learn more about the National Medal, visit the IMLS website.

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About the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community
The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community is a federally recognized, sovereign Dakota tribal government located southwest of Minneapolis/St. Paul. Following a Dakota tradition of generosity, the SMSC is one of the top philanthropists in Minnesota and is the largest contributor to other tribal governments and causes across the country. It is a strong community partner and a leader in protecting and restoring natural resources. The SMSC’s government, Gaming Enterprise and various other enterprises are collectively the largest employer in Scott County and attract millions of visitors to the region.

About the Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. IMLS envisions a nation where individuals and communities have access to museums and libraries to learn from and be inspired by the trusted information, ideas, and stories they contain about our diverse natural and cultural heritage. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community to open first LaunchPad Golf location in United States

Prior Lake, Minn. – The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) today announced it has partnered with LaunchPad Golf to open the company’s first location in the United States. The new facility will be next to Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake.

The two-story, 25,000-square-foot facility will include a 160,000-square-foot driving range with award-winning technology, 40 heated golf suites, two bars and a full-service restaurant. The facility will be able to serve more than 500 people. Construction will begin as early as this spring; the facility is anticipated to open in mid-2025.

“We are excited to welcome LaunchPad Golf to the U.S. and expand our tribe’s golf offerings,” said SMSC Chairman Cole Miller. “This year-round golf entertainment enterprise will provide an incredible experience for guests of all skill levels. It will be an excellent complement to our premium golf course, The Meadows at Mystic Lake.”

Known for its next-level technology in golf entertainment, LaunchPad Golf is a Canadian company that features award-winning Inrange radar technology for superior ball tracking to create an immersive golfing experience. In addition to golf practice and virtual courses, LaunchPad Golf offers exclusive social games, including bay-versus-bay gaming. Regardless of skill level, LaunchPad Golf creates a fun experience for golfers and non-golfers alike.

The Prior Lake venue marks LaunchPad Golf’s first foray into the United States after establishing two locations in Canada. Like its partnership with the SMSC and The Meadows at Mystic Lake, LaunchPad Golf’s current locations have successfully complemented other award-winning golf courses including Mickelson National Golf Club and Heritage Point with elevated, year-round golf experiences.

“LaunchPad Golf is not your average driving range. We offer the most innovative technology to elevate your golf experience, plus a lively atmosphere and delicious food and drinks,” said LaunchPad Golf Owner and CEO Barry Ehlert. “We look forward to partnering with the SMSC and bringing the LaunchPad Golf experience to Minnesota and the U.S. market.”

LaunchPad is represented in the Upper Midwest by Par3 Ventures.

Download renderings here.

About the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community
The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community is a federally recognized, sovereign Dakota tribal government located southwest of Minneapolis/St. Paul. Following a Dakota tradition of generosity, the SMSC is one of the top philanthropists in Minnesota and is the largest contributor to other tribal governments and causes across the country. It is a strong community partner and a leader in protecting and restoring natural resources. The SMSC’s government, Gaming Enterprise, and various other enterprises are collectively the largest employer in Scott County and attract millions of visitors to the region.

About LaunchPad Golf
LaunchPad Golf is Canada’s premier year-round entertainment experience. LaunchPad Golf offers serious swing practice with a selection of virtual golf courses for avid enthusiasts, and multiple modes of interactive game play – perfect for both corporate and social gatherings. Powered by innovative ball tracing technology, the climate-controlled suites ensure all-weather enjoyment. A lively atmosphere and delectable food and beverage options combine for a memorable outing for groups of all ages and abilities. LaunchPad Golf currently has two locations in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community elects new Business Council

Cole Miller elected Chairman, Natasha K. Hacker as Vice-Chairwoman and Ashley Cornforth as Secretary/Treasurer

Prior Lake, Minn. — Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) members elected Cole Miller as Chairman, Natasha K. Hacker as Vice-Chairwoman and Ashley Cornforth as Secretary/Treasurer yesterday. These three elected officials will serve four-year terms beginning Jan. 31 and make up the tribe’s Business Council. The Business Council is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the tribal government, its relationships with its members and other governments, and its thousands of employees. The election had a 76% voter turnout rate. Election results will be certified later this week.

Incoming Chairman Cole Miller was elected to his second term on the SMSC Business Council and first as Chairman. He has served as the tribe’s Vice-Chairman since 2020. On behalf of the SMSC, Miller is the Co-Chair of the Native Farm Bill Coalition, which advocates for Native American interests in the federal Farm Bill. Before joining the Business Council, Miller served as the community liaison for Mdewakanton Public Safety, the tribe’s full-time fire department, paramedic-level ambulance service and emergency management organization. He has been active in the Community for many years, including chairing the tribe’s Wacipi Pow Wow Committee.

Incoming Vice-Chairwoman Natasha K. Hacker was elected to serve her first term on the Business Council. She is currently the Secretary of the SMSC Gaming Enterprise Board of Directors, which governs Gaming Enterprise operations for the SMSC. Coursolle previously served on the SMSC Gaming Commission, which ensures that SMSC gaming operations are conducted fairly, honestly and in compliance with applicable laws. Coursolle first started working for the tribe when she was 14 years old through the Community’s youth internship program. She has served on the tribe’s SMSC Scholarship Selection Committee for the University of Minnesota, among other roles.

Incoming Secretary/Treasurer Ashley Cornforth was elected to serve her first term on the Business Council. She has served on the Gaming Enterprise Board of Directors since 2016, including four years as Chairwoman. Cornforth is very involved with the tribe, serving as a member of the Government Interactions, Economic

Development, Health Wellness and Safety, and Cultural and Historical Preservation Workgroups, and Civilian Review Board.

The current Chairman, Keith Anderson, and Secretary/Treasurer, Rebecca Crooks-Stratton, did not seek re-election.

As a sovereign nation, the SMSC is governed by the General Council, consisting of all enrolled members ages 18 and older. The General Council sets policies for the tribe and is tasked with electing representatives to the Business Council, as well as the Gaming Commission and the Gaming Board of Directors.

Headshots of the incoming Business Council members are available here.

About the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community
The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community is a federally recognized, sovereign Dakota tribal government located southwest of Minneapolis/St. Paul. Following a Dakota tradition of generosity, the SMSC is one of the top philanthropists in Minnesota and is the largest contributor to other tribal governments and causes across the country. It is a strong community partner and a leader in protecting and restoring natural resources. The SMSC’s government, Gaming Enterprise and various other enterprises are collectively the largest employer in Scott County and attract millions of visitors to the region.

Shakopee Mdewakanton, University of Minnesota partner on deer research

Prior Lake, Minn. – The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) announced it will partner with the University of Minnesota (UMN) to capture and collar white-tailed deer using helicopters starting this week. SMSC staff and UMN researchers will use low-flying helicopters with nets to catch deer, fit them with GPS radio collars, collect health samples and release them to monitor their movements.

This project will help the tribe and UMN researchers understand the local deer population, including the areas deer prefer and areas that might pose risks for deer and human safety. When paired with health data, researchers will also get insights into how habitat use may impact the health of a deer population.

“Our tribe is focused on preserving the environment for future generations,” said SMSC Chairman Keith Anderson. “This includes natural resources management to protect the prairies, forests, wetlands and water on our lands, along with the many animals and plants that live here. This study will help us ensure a healthy habitat and enable researchers to gather data that can benefit other communities.”

Once the deer are released, staff will monitor them via satellite transmission from their collars. The collars will collect data for the next two years, with recaptures planned for winter 2025 to reassess the health of the deer.

“Managing deer populations in densely populated areas is important, but little is actually known about suburban deer ecology,” said Meggan Craft, UMN Associate Professor. “We look forward to working with the SMSC to conduct this study and are hopeful that we will learn a lot about deer movement, health and interactions with humans and other animals.”

UMN researchers started this study in January 2023 in collaboration with Three Rivers Park District at Elm Creek Park Reserve. This study is funded through a cooperative agreement with United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service.

About the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community
The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community is a federally recognized, sovereign Dakota tribal government located southwest of Minneapolis/St. Paul. Following a Dakota tradition of generosity, the SMSC is one of the top philanthropists in Minnesota and is the largest contributor to other tribal governments and causes across the country. It is a strong community partner and a leader in protecting and restoring natural resources. The SMSC’s government, Gaming Enterprise and various other enterprises are collectively the largest employer in Scott County and attract millions of visitors to the region.