© Society for Human Ecology Research in Human Ecology

This study investigated the use of National Forests by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Reservation in Montana. Although public lands in the interi-or American west often surround Tribal lands, managers know little about how the Forest Service (FS) rules and regu-lations impact the traditional values and culture of American Indians. Interviews were conducted in 2001 with a sample of 60 enrolled Tribal members. Results indicate that Tribal members participate in a variety of outdoor activities in na-tional forests: hunting, fishing, berry and mushroom picking, camping, hiking, and collecting medicinal plants. Perceived racism from both managers and the visiting public, coupled with feelings of resentment at being pushed out of their abo-riginal lands has created distrust among Tribal members. In order to preserve and respect Tribal culture and values, FS managers need to approach Tribal members with mutual trust and respect according to Tribal customs before requesting input and expecting open dialogue