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The Blackfeet Reservation in Montana covers 1.5 million acres and has a population of just over 10,000. The Blackfeet Nation has approximately 16,000 registered members, with 8,500 living on the reservation. The reservation is governed by the Blackfeet Tribal Business Council and offers tourism, oil and natural gas production, ranching, and wind energy. Tourist attractions include museums, casinos, and outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and hiking.
The Blackfeet Reservation is an Indian reservation located in northwestern Montana in the United States. Located on the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains, the reserve covers approximately 1.5 million acres (6,070 sq km). According to the US Census Bureau, the reservation’s population in 2000 was just over 10,000. The Blackfeet Nation is made up of approximately 16,000 registered members, of which approximately 8,500 live on the reservation. To qualify for membership in the Blackfeet tribe, a person must be able to demonstrate that they are at least one quarter Blackfeet.
Historically, the Blackfeet lived throughout Montana and Canada. The boundaries of the Blackfoot Reservation were initially established by treaty in 1850. Since then, the reservation has undergone considerable change. Notably, the land that became Glacier National Park was purchased from the Blackfeet in an 1896 treaty with the United States government.
The Blackfeet Reservation is considered a sovereign nation and is governed by the Blackfeet Tribal Business Council (BTBC). The BTBC consists of nine members elected for four-year terms. The basis of the government structure on the Blackfeet Reservation was established by the Indian Reorganization Act, 1934.
Located in a remote area of Montana, the preserve is mostly sparsely populated. About half of the residents live in Browning, the largest city and seat of government. Open grasslands cover much of the Blackfoot Preserve, with forests located along the western portion.
Elevation within the reservation ranges from 3,400 feet (1,036 m) above sea level to 9,066 feet (2,763 m) at Chief Mountain. A total of eight lakes and 175 miles (282 km) of streams are found within the reserve. Some of the primary industries in the Blackfeet Reserve are tourism, oil and natural gas production, ranching, and wind energy.
Easily accessible from Glacier National Park, Blackfeet Reserve has much to offer tourists. There are many opportunities to learn the history of the Blackfeet, experience local culture, and see historic and modern Indian artwork. The Blackfeet Reserve is also a destination for fishing, hunting and hiking.
Attractions within the reservation include Glacier Peaks Casino, Museum of the Plains Indian, Blackfeet Heritage Center and Blackfeet Tour Trail. Notable events include North American Indian Days in the second week of July and the Heart Butte Society Celebration in the second week of August. Several campsites and hotels are located within the reservation.
