The project — an indoor growing space that will eventually span the area of 14 football fields — is powered by reclaimed flare gas from the tribe’s oil wells, which would otherwise be polluting waste. At NG2, it is instead captured for heat, carbon dioxide and electricity to power the growing operation, according to MHA Nation information.

When completed, NG2 will be one of the largest greenhouse projects in the world, according to the information.

“Our people have cultivated these lands for thousands of years,” said MHA Nation Chairman Mark Fox. “NG2 allows us to continue providing for our people, at scale, year-round, while serving neighboring communities as well.”

On hand for the celebration was Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak, R-ND, as well as representatives from the offices of U.S. Sens. Kevin Cramer and John Hoeven, both R-ND. Festivities included traditional MHA cultural celebrations, a color guard performance and ribbon cutting.

Submitted Photo Members of the MHA Nation business council, from the left, Robert White, Mervin Packineau, Sherry Turner-Lone Fight, Fred Fox and Chairman Mark Fox cut a ceremonial ribbon for the opening of the Native Green Grow greenhouse. In back is Mark Fox’s son Elijah.

With phase 1 fully operational, the greenhouse is expected to produce 1.8 million pounds of produce each year. More than 30 staff at the facility are currently growing leafy greens, strawberries, bell peppers and cucumbers.

“The Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara peoples were for thousands of years the center of agricultural trading in this region,” Fox said. “NG2 builds on the legacy of our entrepreneurial ancestors. This is not an easy place to farm. But we’re doing it, and soon we’ll be trading produce as our relatives before us did for generations.”

Native Green Grow also provides an opportunity for educating MHA Nation’s young people about healthy eating, economics, technology and cultural history.

By the time its four phases are complete, NG2 will produce more than 10 million pounds of produce per year. It’s expected to create more than 50 jobs and be a significant revenue generator for MHA Nation.

“Our elders have taught us to be wise with our resources and this is a lesson we pass on to future generations,” Fox said. “NG2 is an investment in our economic prosperity, in the long-term health of our people and the ecosystems we’ve always nurtured.”

Submitted Photo A large crowd packed the lobby of the MHA Nation’s Native Green Grow greenhouse for the grand opening.

Submitted Photo Randy Lindemann of RML Architects received a star quilt during the grand opening of the MHA Nation’s Native Green Grow greenhouse. Lindemann is originally from Minot.

Submitted Photo Scott Davis, deputy assistant secretary, U.S. Department of Interior-Indian Affairs, was among speakers at the grand opening of the Native Green Grow greenhouse.

Submitted Photo Mark Fox, left, chairman of the MHA Nation, is shown with Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak at the grand opening of the Native Green Grow greenhouse. Fedorchak was presented with an embroidered shawl. Photos by Karen LoneFight.