Shoshone-Bannock Tribes formally oppose data center development on and near Fort Hall Reservation

FORT HALL, Idaho (KIFI) — The Fort Hall Business Council of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes has issued a statement opposing the development of data centers on the Fort Hall Reservation and in surrounding treaty-protected areas.

In the statement, tribal leaders said they are concerned about the impact large-scale data centers could have on water supplies, energy resources, culturally significant lands and tribal sovereignty.

The council said it also opposes development within ceded lands or other locations where projects could negatively affect the reservation or its residents.

“This position reflects the Tribes’ sovereign obligation to protect the health, welfare, natural resources, cultural integrity, and future of the Shoshone-Bannock people,” the statement reads.

The Tribes cited growing concerns over the amount of water and electricity required to operate data centers, especially as regional resources become increasingly strained.

“Water is not merely a commodity. Water is life,” the statement said. “Its protection is fundamental to the health of our communities, ecosystems, and future generations.”

According to the statement, tribal leaders believe any development affecting tribal lands, treaty rights or resources should involve “early, meaningful, and ongoing government-to-government consultation” with the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes.

The council also raised concerns about Idaho’s energy capacity, noting the state imports much of its electricity. Leaders said increased power demand from data centers could contribute to higher utility costs and strain the regional electrical grid.

The Tribes said they support economic development projects that are sustainable and respectful of environmental and cultural resources but warned economic interests should not come at the expense of tribal lands and water.

The Fort Hall Business Council said it will continue advocating for environmental stewardship, protection of treaty rights and tribal sovereignty as discussions surrounding data center development continue across the region.