Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians Powwow Grounds Updates

Background

The Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians (TMBCI) continues to invest in their culture and traditions by renovating the Chief Little Shell Memorial Powwow Arbor at the Chief Little Shell Memorial Powwow Grounds in Dunseith, ND, and building a safe place for community members to meet at the new Lynn Gourneau “Nigaanii Binesii” (Thunderbird) Cultural Center at the Turtle Mountain Chippewa Pembina Powwow Grounds in Belcourt, ND.

The Projects

HEI’s Tyson Jeannotte was hired to serve as the Tribe’s Project Manager and Owner’s Representative, acting as the Tribe’s primary representative through construction. HEI coordinated closely with Jiran Architects, contractors, Tribal leaders, and other stakeholders to address design questions. HEI monitored project schedules, budgets, milestones, construction quality, change orders, and contractor progress to identify and resolve issues. Through consistent coordination and oversight, HEI helped maintain accountability, protect the Tribe’s interests and investment, and keep the project on track for successful completion. Both projects are expected to finish construction in fall 2026.