NORTH DAKOTA ( KXNET ) — Over the past several weeks, the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation’s response teams have been working to contain the Bear Den fire near Mandaree.

As of the morning of Tuesday, October 15, the fire was 85% contained after burning over 12,000 acres on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation.

During the fires, MHA Nation’s Emergency Operation Center (the first of its kind in Indian Country) has been working alongside federal agencies, national guards, the state highway patrol, and others. The Nation’s chairman, Mark Fox, released the following statement regarding their service:

Our Nation has been working tirelessly since October 5th to combat the ongoing fires in the Mandaree area. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the MHA Nation Emergency Operations Center, local, state, and national agencies, emergency responders, fire crews, volunteer crews from fellow tribal agencies and all community members for their unwavering dedication to protecting our communities.

Your strength, courage, and commitment have been invaluable in safeguarding the well-being of the MHA Nation during these challenging times. Your efforts exemplify the true spirit of unity and resilience that defines our people.

I would also like to express my gratitude to Governor Burgum’s Office for their dedicated hard work and continued support. Their team has been instrumental in providing essential resources and assistance to our community.

I urge everyone to prioritize safety and to support one another during this challenging time. We will continue to work side-by-side with all of our partners to mobilize aid to those impacted. We deeply appreciate the dedication of all first responders and volunteers.

Together, we remain strong!

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