Fire breaks out at White Earth Nation’s cannabis operation

OG article by Kim Hyatt

December 3, 2025

A fire broke out on December 2, 2025, at White Earth Nation’s cannabis operation in Mahnomen, Minn., within Waabigwan Mashkiki’s lab, prompting evacuations due to explosion risks from hazardous butane used in cannabinoid extraction for concentrates and edibles. Crews from the Mahnomen County Sheriff’s Office and Volunteer Fire Department contained the blaze, with no injuries reported; the Minnesota State Fire Marshal’s Office is leading the investigation. Mahnomen Mayor Curtis Uran described it as “kind of a dangerous situation,” evacuating areas within 300 yards, while Sue Kraft noted chaos, clearing three blocks including nearby businesses, though the adjacent Shooting Star Casino remained open internally. By 4 p.m., smoke had dissipated, but firefighters stayed cautious with hoses ready. White Earth spokesperson Gary Padrta highlighted butane concerns, with hazmat teams clearing the site; CEO Zach Wilson confirmed no building damage, stating, “Seeing that there’s gases being used for extraction it warranted extra safety precautions.” Waabigwan Mashkiki, meaning “medicine flower” in Ojibwe, operates dispensaries in Moorhead and St. Cloud, plans expansions in 2026, and supplies nontribal outlets like Legacy in Duluth; White Earth was Minnesota’s first tribe for off-reservation dispensaries via state compacts. Tribal leaders, including Chairman Michael Fairbanks, were absent at MJBizCon 2025 in Las Vegas.