City Detail

Background Information

City of Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe
County: Cass
Population: 8000
GreenStep City category: B
Full-time equivalent city staff (approx.): 2000
Participating township, county, school: Cass, Hubbard, Beltrami, Itasca

GreenStep Coordinator

Brandy Toft
Community Volunteer
brandy.toft@llojibwe.net
218-335-7429
City web page relating to sustainability/GreenStep activities:
http://www.llojibwe.org/drm/index.html
GreenStep City resolution: Click here to view the file.
GreenStep City status and date: STEP 5 ( )

City Assessment Files and City Performance Metrics

City councils pass a resolution to join the GreenStep program and are recognized at Step 1. Step 2 and Step 3 recognition levels reflect completed city actions, reported and rated below with stars (1 star = good, 2 stars = better, 3 stars = best). The Assessment File below summarizes completed city actions in a short Word file. Step 4 recognition is awarded to cities who report a minimum number of core metrics for the previous calendar year. These metrics aim to show the aggregate, quantitative results of taking multiple GreenStep actions. Step 5 cities show improvement in the Step 4 metrics. See yearly data for Steps 4&5. Additional city data can be found by reviewing information on B3 Benchmarking and Regional Indicators Initiative.

Assessment File
2023 - click to view assessment

Best Practice Actions Underway and Completed

Completed actions are denoted by stars.

Total completed actions: 63
1 star actions: 41
2 star actions: 15
3 star actions: 5

Buildings and Lighting Buildings and Lighting

Efficient Existing Public Buildings {BP no.1}

3 star - Action 1:

Enter/update building information into the MN B3 Benchmarking database, and routinely enter monthly usage data for all city-owned buildings/infrastructure that consume energy/water.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016
Implementation details:
Leech Lake has benchmarked 68 Tribal-owned buildings with 148 total utility meters. Through B3 Benchmarking, savings potentials have been identified. These potentials have been identified for GESP and consulted on with the Minnesota Department of Commerce.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
The Weidt Group, Minnesota Department of Commerce
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 2:

Make no/low cost indoor lighting and operational changes in city-owned/school buildings to reduce energy costs.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2015
Implementation details:
Worked with Ottertail power company for new lighting in facility center with rebates: LED lighting in new buildings, in Division of Resource Management and Headquarters. Created an outreach campaign involving reminders to staff about their energy usage. For example, using "turn it off" light switch stickers and verbal reminders about unnecessary energy usage.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
3 star - Action 3:

Invest in larger energy efficiency projects through performance contracting or other funding or through smaller retro-commissioning/retrofit projects in city-owned/school buildings.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016
Implementation details:
The LLAP continues our sustainability efforts by working to install 200Kw solar PV on the
Reservation and implementing a large 22 building Guaranteed Energy Savings Project that could save LLBO over $800,000 in energy savings and 9,839 metric tons of GHG emissions per year.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
RREAL
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (Community volunteer) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 4:

Implement IT efforts and city employee engagement to reduce plug loads, building energy use and workflow efficiency.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Worked with Ottertail power company for new lighting in facility center with rebates. Created an outreach campaign.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 5:

Document that the new construction or major remodeling of a public building has met the SB 2030 energy standard or has met or qualified under a green building or energy framework.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Green Team works with core construction committees to implement green practices on each new construction project.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
Not rated - Action 7:

Install for one or more city-owned/school buildings one of the following efficiency measures:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Completed feasibility study for wind and solar furnace on campus at the BugONayGeShig school.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Efficient Existing Private Buildings {BP no.2}

1 star - Action 1:

Create or participate in a marketing/outreach/incentive program to promote/achieve residential energy/water use reduction and energy efficiency.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Outreach at each community event, ads and articles in the tribal newspaper and radio show on KOJB, the Tribal radio.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
2 star - Action 2:

Integrate green building and EV charging best practices information and assistance into the building permit process.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The Leech Lake Green Team has direct input at planning and construction meetings with all public buildings.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 4:

Describe energy/water efficiency outcomes and other green building practices at businesses and not-for-profit organizations located within/nearby the city.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Promoted native vegetation to eliminate irrigation and implemented commercial sized composting bins throughout the reservation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

New Green Buildings {BP no.3}

1 star - Action 1:

Require by city policy that new city-owned buildings be built using the SB 2030 energy standard and/or a green building framework.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Leech Lake encourages a list of Green Initiatives depending on construction and building infrastructure that may be implemented, taking into account budget constraints. For example, use of energy efficient lighting, heating, cooling, high r-value insulation, passive solar/lighting and orientation of building.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 5:

Adopt environmentally preferable covenant guidelines for new common interest communities addressing issues such as stormwater, greywater, native vegetation, growing food, clothes lines, electric vehicle charging, and renewable energy.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The Leech lake housing authority implemented a renewable energy and land use ordinance which requires adopting storm water guidelines.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Efficient Outdoor Lighting and Signals {BP no.4}

3 star - Action 1:

Require energy efficient, Dark-Sky compliant new or replacement outdoor lighting fixtures on city-owned/private buildings and facilities.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Energy efficient, Dark-sky compliant new or replacement lighting fixtures are included in new construction.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
2 star - Action 5:

Use LED/solar-powered lighting for a flashing sign or in a street, parking lot or park project.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
LED lighting at new buildings at the Leech lake Division of Resource Management and the Tribal Council Administration building. Solar power lighting is also used at the Tribal Council Administration building.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Land Use Land Use

Comprehensive, Climate and Energy Plans {BP no.6}

1 star - Action 1:

Adopt a comprehensive plan or (for Category B & C cities) adopt a future land use plan that was adopted by the county or a regional entity.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Leech Lake Land Use Ordinance is in place which regulates both fee and trust lands within the Leech Lake Reservation and is owned by a member of a Federal Recognized Tribe.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 2:

Demonstrate that regulatory ordinances comply with the comprehensive plan including but not limited to having the zoning ordinance explicitly reference the comprehensive plan as the foundational document for decision making.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2006
Implementation details:
The Leech Lake Land Use Ordinance serves as the decision-making document and regulates both trust and fee lands on the Reservation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (Community volunteer) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 3:

Include requirements in comprehensive and/or other plans for intergovernmental coordination addressing regional land use and watershed / wellhead impacts, infrastructure, transportation, economic development and city/regional services.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Leech lake Band of Ojibwe has comprehensive plans for intergovernmental coordination for land use and watershed impacts, infrastructure, economic development and tribal/regional services.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Mixed Uses {BP no.8}

1 star - Action 2:

Locate or lease a property for use as a school, city building or other government facility that has at least two of these attributes:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2015
Implementation details:
The new Tribal Headquarters building meets all three criterion along with the Tribal Owned gas station, Che We.\

Shared parking and childcare facilities have been completed for multiple locations on the reservation. Tribal college construction trades practices and implementation into program. There are multiple facilities within the 11 communities on Leech Lake that are located within walking distance of transit and residential zoning. We have a continuous effort to renovate buildings on the reservation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Efficient Highway- and Auto-Oriented Development {BP no.9}

1 star - Action 2:

Participate in regional economic development planning with representatives from surrounding townships, cities, the county and business interests to:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe consults with Minnesota Regional Transportation Committee Member regularly.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Design for Natural Resource Conservation {BP no.10}

1 star - Action 1:

Conduct a Natural Resource Inventory or Assessment (NRI or NRA); incorporate protection of priority natural systems or resources such as groundwater through the subdivision or development process.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Leech Lake Land Use Ordinance has an environmental checklist in place which is comparable to a Natural Resource Assessment.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 4:

Adopt a conservation design policy; use a conservation design tool for pre-design meetings with developers and for negotiating development agreements in cities with undeveloped natural resource areas.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Land use Ordinance guidelines and environmental checklist.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Transportation Transportation

Mobility Options {BP no.12}

2 star - Action 2:

Conduct an Active Living campaign such as a Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
There are diabetes and exercise campaigns in place in which bike and walking trails promoted around the reservation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 5:

Implement workplace multi-modal transportation best management practices - including telework/flexwork - in city government, businesses or at a local health care provider.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
There are some tribal employees who telecommute or work 4 day, 10 hour shifts.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
2 star - Action 6:

Add/expand public transit service.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Leech Lake Transit Service actively assesses routes and drop off/pick up points. Leech Lake Fitness Center is available to the wider public and has bicycles for rent.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Efficient City Fleets {BP no.13}

1 star - Action 1:

Efficiently use your existing fleet of city vehicles by encouraging trip bundling, video conferencing, carpooling, vehicle sharing and incentives/technology.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Palace Casino transport offers transportation for employees and Tribal members. Employees are also encouraged to coordinate with Fleet management to trip bundle, carpool and share vehicles for travel.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 5:

Document that the local school bus fleet has optimized routes, start times, boundaries, vehicle efficiency and fuels, driver actions to cut costs including idling reduction, and shifting students from the bus to walking, biking and city transit.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
There is an idling reduction campaign in process and local School district optimize routes each year. 65 school busses on the reservation were etrofitted to becoming more energy efficient
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 6:

Retrofit city diesel engines or install auxiliary power units and/or electrified parking spaces, utilizing Project GreenFleet or the like.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Leech lake has retrofitted 65 buses, 25 DOCs, 2 DMFs and 4 re-powers.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (Community volunteer) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Environmental Management Environmental Management

Sustainable Purchasing {BP no.15}

1 star - Action 1:

Adopt a sustainable purchasing policy or administrative guidelines/practices directing that the city purchase at least:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
The Leech Lake Housing Authority has adopted policies requiring that "Electronics and appliances shall meet Energy-Star efficiency standards".
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 4:

Require purchase of U.S. EPA WaterSense-certified products.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2021
Implementation details:
Included in the LLHA Purchasing Policy submitted to satisfy BP 15.1 is a provision that states that: "Water conserving fixtures shall be utilized. Toilets, showerheads and bathroom faucets shall be Water-Sense labeled or not to exceed: Toilets-1.28 gpf , Showerheads - 2.0 gpm, Bathroom faucets -1.5 gpm, Kitchen faucets - 2 gpm." (pg. 8 of LLHA Procurement Policy)
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File: view file
Descriptive links:
LLHA
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Community Forests and Soils {BP no.16}

1 star - Action 4:

Maximize tree planting along your main downtown street or throughout the city.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Where applicable in Tribal Communities, Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe installs appropriate plantings.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
1 star - Action 5:

Adopt a tree preservation or native landscaping ordinance.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Reforesting areas to native species and removal of non-native species takes place throughout the reservation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Stormwater Management {BP no.17}

1 star - Action 5:

Adopt and implement guidelines or design standards/incentives for at least one of the following stormwater infiltration/reuse practices:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Rain garden implemented and proposed in all new construction projects. The first implemented rain garden is located at the Tribal Headquarters.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Parks and Trails {BP no.18}

2 star - Action 1:

Make improvements within your city's system of parks, offroad trails and open spaces.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Needed trails placed in desired locations near Tribal Communities as part of larger transportation projects.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 2:

Plan and budget for a network of parks, green spaces, water features and trails for areas where new development is planned.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
New housing projects contain plans for green space.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
2 star - Action 5:

Create park/city land management standards/practices that maximize at least one of the following:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe utilizes Native landscaping. Pest management is carried out by surveys, detection trapping. New construction projects contain rain gardens for irrigation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
2 star - Action 8:

Develop a program to involve community members in hands-on land restoration, invasive species management and stewardship projects.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Community members are involved in restoration and stewardship efforts through multiple outreach methods including; events, presentations to LICs and natural resource committee which consists of elders and community citizens. Tribal members are also hired to execute projects.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Surface Water {BP no.19}

1 star - Action 2:

Conduct or support multi-party community conversations, assessments, plans and actions around improving local water quality and quantity.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Tribal members are very aware of their water quality and converse regularly about prevention, maintenance and degradation in public forums as well as private conversations.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 3:

Adopt and publicly report on measurable surface water improvement targets for lake, river, wetland and ditches.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Work in collaboration with MPCA and Soil and Water 5 Conservation districts. The reservation is also connected with lake association and the Mississippi Headwaters Association.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 4:

Adopt a shoreland ordinance for all river and lake shoreland areas.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe has a lake and river shoreland ordinance.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Efficient Water and Wastewater Systems {BP no.20}

1 star - Action 1:

Compare the energy use and financial performance of your facilities with other peer facilities using standardized, free tools.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
This has been done with a pilot project with two communities by housing and U of M extension program. Outreach provided additionally through ISTS program.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Septic Systems {BP no.21}

1 star - Action 1:

Report to landowners suspected noncompliant or failing septic systems as part of an educational, informational and financial assistance and outreach program designed to trigger voluntary landowner action to improve septic systems.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Leech Lake has an Individual Sewage Treatment System program in which personnel go to homes, locate septic and check for compliance. An educational booklet/stewardship guide from the University of Minnesota Extension program was created.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 5:

Create a program to finance septic system upgrades.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Occurs for tribal citizens on tribal land under certain circumstance, every AI is eligible for 1 septic system which is possible by EPA funding through IHS. Leech Lake is working on putting stony point campground to join city system.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
2 star - Action 6:

Work with homeowners and businesses in environmentally sensitive areas and areas where standard septic systems are not the least-cost option to promote innovative waste water systems, including central sewer extensions.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The Northern Lights Casino contains a recirculating ozone.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Sustainable Consumption and Waste {BP no.22}

3 star - Action 1:

Improve city operations and procurement to prevent and reuse, recycle and compost waste from all public facilities (including libraries, parks, schools, municipal health care facilities), and minimize use of toxics and generation of hazardous waste.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Composting projects throughout the reservation have created a 25% reduction in the waste stream.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 3:

Improve profitability, legal compliance and conserve resources through adoption of ordinance language, licensing and resource management contracts.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
There is free recycling drop off at all five of the transfer stations on the reservation. Schools have their own recycling through contracts and all of the casinos promote and follow through with recycling efforts.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 5:

Arrange for a residential and/or business/institutional source-separated organics collection/management program.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Outreach campaigns and individual composter sales at each community event. Sold 80 earth machine composters at reduced rates.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Local Air Quality {BP no.23}

1 star - Action 1:

Replace small internal combustion engine lawn and garden equipment (e.g. lawnmowers, weed whips, etc.) with lower polluting equipment.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The Leech Lake Environmental Department has a burn wise campaign that teaches how burning the right wood, the right way, in the right wood-burning appliance can protect your home, health, and the air around us.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 2:

Reduce residential burning of wood and yard waste and eliminate ‘backyard’ trash burning.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe has an open burning, burn barrel and fire prevention ordinance.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
3 star - Action 3:

Decrease air emissions from vehicle idling, gasoline filling stations, business trucking, and pollutants/noise from stationary engines/back-up generators.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Leech lake Housing authority has a no smoking policy in certain community developments.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Resilient Economic & Community Development Resilient Economic and Community Development

Benchmarks and Community Engagement {BP no.24}

2 star - Action 1:

Inclusive and Coordinated Decision-Making: Use a city commission or committee to lead, coordinate, report to and engage community members on the identification and equitable implementation of sustainability best practices.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The Leech Lake Green Team makes an efforts to report to community members on implementation of GreenStep Best Practices to community members.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
Not rated - Action 2:

Communicating Progress on Goals: Organize goals/outcome measures from all city plans (social, environmental, economic) and report to community members data that show progress toward meeting these goals.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The Leech Lake Green Team can organize goals and outcome measures from city plans and report to community members through press releases to show goal progress.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 3:

Measuring Outcomes: Engage community members and partners in identifying, measuring, and reporting progress on key sustainability and social indicators/ including energy use/greenhouse gas emissions, social vitality/social inclusion outcome measures.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
The Leech Lake Green Team plays a big part in the public process and involving Tribal Council on process of sustainability efforts.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
2 star - Action 4:

Public Education for Action: Conduct or support a broad sustainability education and action campaign, building on existing community relationships, networks & events involving:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Outreach at each community event, ads and articles in newspaper and radio show on KOJB, the Tribal radio station. The Summer Youth Experience Program and environmental staff present to local schools on various environmental topics.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
2 star - Action 5:

Planning with a Purpose: Conduct a community visioning and planning initiative that engages a diverse set of community members & stakeholders and uses a sustainability, resilience, or environmental justice framework such as:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Green Team projects include Composting education, community and residential gardens, local food locator map, monthly sustainable food classes, seasonal camps, renewable energy education and general sustainable practices among tribe members. There are also Classes reconnecting traditional knowledge and skills.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Green Business Development {BP no.25}

1 star - Action 2:

Create or participate in a marketing/outreach program to connect businesses with assistance providers, including utilities, who provide personalized energy, waste or sustainability audits and assistance.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Leech lake works with Ottertail power company (one of four throughout the reservation_ to work on energy reductions and conservation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
2 star - Action 3:

Promote sustainable tourism in your city, and green tourism resources to tourism and hospitality businesses in/around the city.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
There is a "Green Routes" brochure that promotes resources to green tourism and hospitality businesses from Star Island to Deer River.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
2 star - Action 5:

Lower the environmental and health risk footprint of a brownfield remediation/redevelopment project beyond regulatory requirements; report brightfield projects.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Multiple Brownfield projects completed and in progress. Leech Lake is a leader in the Tribal Brownfield program arena.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 7:

Conduct or participate in a buy local campaign for community members and local businesses.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Leech Lake Environmental Program teamed up with the GIS Department to create a local foods map to show where local food is grown, distributed and sold.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Renewable Energy {BP no.26}

1 star - Action 5:

Install a public sector/municipally-owned renewable energy technology, such as solar electric (PV), wind, biomass, solar hot water/air, or micro-hydro.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016
Implementation details:
There are two solar furnace systems in place on the reservation. 35 m BTU and 24 m BTU.

The LLAP continues our sustainability efforts by working to install 200Kw solar PV on the
Reservation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
RREAL
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Local Food {BP no.27}

2 star - Action 1:

Protect working landscapes - agriculture and forestry - by adopting an ordinance or incentivizing one or more of the following:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Leech Lake's land use ordinance in which agriculture and forest is protected. Leech lake has also created a local foods locator map in which member can find the nearest local food options.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 2:

Facilitate creation of home/community gardens, chicken & bee keeping, and incorporation of food growing areas/access in multifamily and residential developments.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
In 2014, Leech lake tiled over 80 residential gardens and started a community Garden. Four more community gardens are planned for the Spring of 2015 in four separate locations around the reservation.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429
1 star - Action 3:

Create, assist with and promote local food production/distribution within the city:

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
Inventory has been done for a farmers market on the reservation and a community garden is located at the Bug-O-Nay-Ge-Shig Tribal school.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429

Climate Adaptation and Community Resilience {BP no.29}

2 star - Action 1:

Prepare to maintain public health and safety during extreme weather and climate-change-related events, while also taking a preventive approach to reduce risk for community members.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed:
Implementation details:
We have our own FEMA approved Hazard Mitigation Plan.
We have 14 Weather Warn Sirens that send out voice and tones. Not bi-lingual.
We have 12 shelter sites identified with the American Red Cross, some have power back up and food and some do not. We usually rely on the Casinos to cater food in and they all have back up. We also have a store of bottled water kept on hand with a local bottle company- 2 pallets on hand donated at all times, plus the casino stores more water than it needs to keep on hand in case of emergency, another 2 pallets.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
FEMA, American Red Cross
For more information contact:
Duane Oothoudt (City staff) | Duane.Oothoudt@llpolice.org | 2187660280
1 star - Action 8:

Improve local energy resilience by minimizing fuel poverty, installing distributed renewable energy systems, and developing microgrids that can improve energy system resiliency.

Rating Guideline
Date action report first entered:
Date of last report update:
Year action initially completed: 2016
Implementation details:
Leech Lake implemented 40kW of solar energy to benefit low-income Tribal Members on the Energy Assistance Program (EAP). This project is in partnership with RREAL. We plan on constructing 4 additional 40kW solar PV arrays with all energy generation benefits passed onto EAP.
Outcome measures/metrics/money saved:
We expect this project to benefit up to 100 households in paying energy bills. This will decrease Leech Lake's dependence on fossil fuels.
Descriptive File:
Descriptive links:
RREAL
For more information contact:
Brandy Toft (City staff) | air@lldrm.org | 218-335-7429