Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Reservation

Home to the Salish, Kootenai, and Pend d'Oreille tribes, the Flathead Reservation was initially a 22-million-acre territory in the Western United States and Canada. Today, it encompasses nearly 1.3 million acres of land, including a portion of the Rocky Mountains, the southern half of Flathead Lake (the largest natural freshwater lake in the west), and an extensive river corridor with various wildlife and natural resources.

In 1934 the Salish, Kootenai, and Pend d'Oreille tribes became the first Native American tribe in U.S territory to adopt a Republic Tribal Council as a part of the Indian Reorganization Act. Their constitution and governance structure continues to operate effectively today. Engaging in various economic enterprises and investing in their community makes evident their commitment to regaining and restoring homelands and natural resources while building a self-sufficient society and economy.

Tribally-owned businesses contribute $317 million to the Montana economy annually. The Tribal government, the largest employer in Lake County, provides an additional $70 million annually through payroll and vendor goods and services. Through economic development and environmental stewardship, the Salish, Kootenai, and Pend d'Oreilles people infuse their traditional beliefs into every endeavor to safeguard their heritage and determine their destiny.