Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes ask Lincoln County to restore agreement for Kootenai Falls gathering

Madeline Kayai, Tribal Historic Preservation Officer for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, told commissioners April 8 that the tribes have used an area at Kootenai Falls for an annual gathering "since before I can remember" and asked the county to reestablish a prior agreement or create a new written arrangement to ensure continued access.

Kayai said communication with the county had lapsed as commissioners and staff changed, and she asked the county to research historical records and any existing agreements. County staff said the use could likely be accommodated and that they would search records, provide contact information, and follow up to formalize a solution if needed. Commissioners indicated they could close the area for the tribal event when appropriate and asked staff to report back.

The tribes said the gathering occurs once a year and that parking and trail improvements near the site have increased public use and the need for coordination. County staff committed to searching archives, sharing findings with the tribal preservation office, and working toward a written arrangement to avoid future misunderstandings.