Salish Kootenai Reservation
The Flathead Indian Reservation, nestled north of Interstate 90 between Missoula and Kalispell, serves as the ancestral home to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes. Comprising over 1.2 million acres, this historic territory is shared by the Salish, Pend d'Oreille, and Kootenai peoples. Of the approximately 7,753 enrolled tribal members, around 5,000 reside on or near the reservation.
Economically, the tribes derive significant income from various sources, including timber industry sales and revenues from the Kerr Dam facility co-license with Montana PPL. Additionally, the tribes operate a thriving resort and casino in Polson under S&K Gaming, along with S&K Electronics, manufacturing computer components, and circuits. Other enterprises, managed by S&K Holding, contribute to the reservation's economic vitality, alongside providing business loans to tribal members.
For those interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of the tribes, the People's Center serves as an educational hub, showcasing the story of the Salish, Pend d'Oreille, and Kootenai through museum exhibits and educational programs. Visitors can also enjoy the natural beauty of the reservation, including Flathead Lake State Park, renowned for its stunning landscapes and recreational activities.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the National Bison Range/Pablo National Wildlife Refuge, where bison, elk, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife roam freely across vast grasslands. Nearby, the Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge and State Wildlife Management Area offer exceptional opportunities for birdwatching in a pristine wetland habitat.
History buffs can visit the St. Ignatius Mission, a historic landmark built in 1854 by Native Americans under the guidance of Catholic missionaries, featuring original murals by Brother Joseph Carignano. Meanwhile, Salish Kootenai College offers insights into contemporary tribal education, providing two- and four-year degree programs amidst a scenic campus setting.
The tribal government, led by the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribal Council, oversees governance and representation across various districts within the reservation. With a rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant communities, the Flathead Indian Reservation stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and legacy of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes.
The Flathead Indian Reservation, nestled north of Interstate 90 between Missoula and Kalispell, serves as the ancestral home to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes. Comprising over 1.2 million acres, this historic territory is shared by the Salish, Pend d'Oreille, and Kootenai peoples. Of the approximately 7,753 enrolled tribal members, around 5,000 reside on or near the reservation.
Economically, the tribes derive significant income from various sources, including timber industry sales and revenues from the Kerr Dam facility co-license with Montana PPL. Additionally, the tribes operate a thriving resort and casino in Polson under S&K Gaming, along with S&K Electronics, manufacturing computer components, and circuits. Other enterprises, managed by S&K Holding, contribute to the reservation's economic vitality, alongside providing business loans to tribal members.
For those interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of the tribes, the People's Center serves as an educational hub, showcasing the story of the Salish, Pend d'Oreille, and Kootenai through museum exhibits and educational programs. Visitors can also enjoy the natural beauty of the reservation, including Flathead Lake State Park, renowned for its stunning landscapes and recreational activities.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the National Bison Range/Pablo National Wildlife Refuge, where bison, elk, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife roam freely across vast grasslands. Nearby, the Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge and State Wildlife Management Area offer exceptional opportunities for birdwatching in a pristine wetland habitat.
History buffs can visit the St. Ignatius Mission, a historic landmark built in 1854 by Native Americans under the guidance of Catholic missionaries, featuring original murals by Brother Joseph Carignano. Meanwhile, Salish Kootenai College offers insights into contemporary tribal education, providing two- and four-year degree programs amidst a scenic campus setting.
The tribal government, led by the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribal Council, oversees governance and representation across various districts within the reservation. With a rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant communities, the Flathead Indian Reservation stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and legacy of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes.
