Member Tribes
UCUT Member Tribes: A Collaborative Tribal Network Protecting Lands, Wildlife, and Culture Across the Upper Columbia Region
Our Tribal Network
The Upper Columbia United Tribes (UCUT) is a powerful alliance of five sovereign nations—the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, Kalispel Tribe of Indians, Kootenai Tribe of Idaho, and Spokane Tribe of Indians—united by shared values, cultural heritage, and a deep commitment to protecting the natural world. Together, these Tribes collaborate to address common environmental, cultural, and policy challenges across their ancestral territories.
Through this unique leadership model, UCUT works to restore and sustain vital fish and wildlife populations, preserve cultural lifeways, and enhance ecological resilience across the Upper Columbia region. By sharing resources, coordinating science-based strategies, and advocating at local, regional, and national levels, the member Tribes amplify their collective voice to protect the land, water, and future for all.
Discover the Strength of Our Tribal Nations
Coeur d’Alene Tribe of Indians
Stewards of Sacred Waters
Known in their own language as Schitsu’umsh, or “Those Who Were Found Here,” the Coeur d’Alene Tribe has deep roots across nearly five million acres of what is now North Idaho, Eastern Washington, and Western Montana. From centuries of sustainable living along rivers and lakes to leading one of the largest environmental restoration efforts in U.S. history, the Tribe stands at the forefront of protecting Lake Coeur d’Alene and its surrounding watershed. Click to explore their legacy of resilience, environmental leadership, and cultural preservation.
Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation
A Legacy of Strength and Stewardship
The Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation represent twelve distinct bands united by resilience, cultural heritage, and a deep connection to the lands of northeastern Washington. From ancestral traditions of seasonal harvesting to managing 2,100 square miles of rich natural resources today, CTCR continues to protect fish, wildlife, and homeland ecosystems while navigating a complex history of federal policies. Click to learn more about their enduring leadership and vision for the future.
Kalispel Tribe of Indians
Resilience Rooted in the River
Known as the “River and Lake Paddlers,” the Kalispel Tribe of Indians has long lived in harmony with the waters and lands of the Pend Oreille region. Despite a history of displacement and hardship, the Tribe remains a model of resilience and innovation—preserving cultural heritage while leading nationally in wildlife conservation, fish hatchery development, and ecosystem restoration. Click to learn more about the Kalispel Tribe’s enduring legacy and their vision for future generations.
Kootenai Tribe of Idaho
Guardians of the Land Since Time Began
Rooted in the Covenant made with the Creator-Spirit, the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho has always seen itself as protectors of the land, water, and all living things. From resisting relocation without ever signing a treaty to leading nationally recognized conservation efforts—including the recovery of the endangered Kootenai River white sturgeon—the Tribe continues to honor its sacred duty. Click to learn more about the Kootenai people’s legacy of resilience, environmental stewardship, and spiritual connection to the land.
Spokane Tribe of Indians
People of the River, Protectors of the Future
For centuries, the Spokane Tribe of Indians has lived in harmony with the rivers, lands, and wildlife of the Inland Northwest. Once spread across over three million acres, the Tribe now leads vital efforts in fisheries restoration, hatchery development, and water quality monitoring on its reservation in Wellpinit, Washington. From kokanee salmon to white sturgeon recovery, the Spokane Tribe is deeply committed to sustaining natural resources for future generations. Click to explore their enduring connection to the Columbia Plateau and their role in regional ecological restoration.
See Our Work in Action
Our commitment to protecting fish, water, wildlife, habitat, and culture comes to life through the projects we lead across the Columbia Plateau. Explore how UCUT’s collaborative efforts are making a lasting impact on the land and its people.
Right Image Credit: Salmon Reintroduction Upstream of Chief Joseph and Grand Coulee Dams
