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Bois Forte Reservation

Table of goal data by year
Year Rank 100/20 Mbps
2021 #11 of 11 0%
2019 #10 of 11 0%
Coverage map graphic

Bois Forte Reservation has seen an increase in broadband access of 25 Mbps down and 3 up since last mapping. They have seen nothing in access to 100/20.

Bois Forte has been working on better broadband through the IRBC program with IRRR and the Blandin Foundation as part of the Grizzlies, which include Bois Forte, Orr and Cook. Through that program, Bois Forte Tribal Government received Border-to-Border Broadband grant funding to connect ten unserved and 468 underserved locations throughout four sectors of the Bois Forte Reservation. Those upgrade must not yet show up on the maps and data. But it will make a difference and should means an increase in access to 100/20 speeds.

Through IRBC, the community has also been making wireless available in public places around the community (learn more) it and they are working on programming to encourage use, such as a youth sports website.

Normally I would be concerned to see improvement to adequate access because it can dull the drive for better broadband for all in the long run and access to 25/3 will likely not meet long term needs, especially if residents stay or return to work, school and healthcare access online. Here I’m optimistic that the work with the Blandin Foundation will keep people focused and that the next mapping will highlight the impact of the 2020 Border to Border grant.

Household Density

.01

Has Worked with Blandin Foundation

Yes

Has Received MN Grant(s)

Yes

Bois Forte Tribal Government – Bois Forte FTTH – GRANT: $1,248,790
This last mile project will upgrade approximately 10 unserved and 468 underserved locations throughout four sectors of the Bois Forte Reservation in northeastern Minnesota: Nett Lake, Palmquist, Indian Point, and Vermilion. In a funding partnership with the State of Minnesota, Minnesota Iron Range Resource & Rehabilitation Board, and the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, Bois Forte will improve broadband service levels to at least 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload, meeting or exceeding the 2022 and 2026 state speed goals. This project will help increase jobs, wealth, and revenue throughout the entire reservation.

Government Districts

U.S. Congress: CD 8

MN Senate: 03

MN House: 03A

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