Cannabis Production Efforts Move Forward with Hands-on Learning at LCOOU

By Jennifer Cadotte

LCO PR Specialist

Economic development remains a priority for the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians as the Tribe works to strengthen its sovereignty and reduce dependency on federal funding. One of the initiatives gaining traction is the Tribe’s investment in cannabis production and workforce education.

In a move to prepare Tribal Members for careers in the cannabis industry, the LCO Cannabis Advisory Network (LCO CAN) has teamed up with Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University (LCOOU) to offer a Cannabis Science Community Education one-off pilot class. The class, now in session, has drawn more than 20 students ready to gain foundational knowledge in this fast-growing sector.  A three-credit course is also being offered this fall for students who wish to continue their studies at the LCOOU.

As part of the program, students and members of LCO CAN recently traveled to Minnesota to tour the cannabis facility operated by the Prairie Island Indian Community. The site visit offered participants a behind-the-scenes look at a fully integrated cannabis operation — from cultivation and processing to product formulation, packaging, distribution, and retail.

LCO Vice-Chairman Bill Trepanier expressed his excitement in a statement, “I’m proud to support our Tribe’s cannabis program-not just as an economic opportunity, but as a way to educate and empower our next generation.  Seeing the students from LCOOU visit the Prairie Island cannabis facility was inspiring.  It gave them firsthand insight into the science, business, and sovereignty behind this industry.  These experiences are planting seeds-not just in the ground, but in the minds of our youth.  This is how we grow a future rooted in knowledge, innovation, and self-determination.”

“This tour was extremely well received by everyone who participated,” said Thi Le, a member of LCO CAN. “Members even asked if there were opportunities for them to get hands-on experience, which aligns with some of the engagement opportunities we’ve been developing through LCO CAN.”

Our goal is that with the right training and infrastructure, cannabis production can become a key revenue stream and employment generator for the LCO community.

Future expansions of the program may include internships, business development support, and advanced coursework in cannabis entrepreneurship.

Photos submitted by Thi Le, LCO CAN Member.