Legal Settlement Protects Wild Rice on Menominee Reservation

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Legal Settlement Protects Wild Rice on Menominee Reservation

October 23, 2026

By Tracy Abler, Justice Coordinator

A recent report from Midwest Environmental Advocates shares the great news that, with their help, the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin has reached a settlement in a lawsuit against the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) over the proposed use of an aquatic herbicide that threatened wild rice beds within the Menominee Reservation.

The case began in February 2025 when Legend Lake Protection and Rehabilitation District applied to the DNR for a permit to treat parts of Legend Lake with an herbicide known to harm wild rice. The Tribe challenged DNR’s decision to issue the permit, which led to months of negotiations.

The Tribe’s connection to wild rice—and its interest in managing Legend Lake—is difficult to overstate. “Menominee” literally translates to “wild rice people.” Legend Lake was created in the 1960s as part of an economic development plan following the termination of the Tribe’s federal recognition. The project dammed and dredged eight natural lakes where wild rice had historically flourished. Legend Lake’s legacy remains intertwined with the Tribe’s sovereignty and efforts to restore wild rice.

Under the settlement finalized in September, the DNR will no longer permit chemical herbicides where wild rice is growing or being seeded, or in designated sensitive aquatic habitats. The agency also agreed to update sensitive area designations based on Tribal input and consult with the Tribe before approving future chemical applications.

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