The Spokane Tribe is a federally recognized Indian Tribe with reserved rights in fish, wildlife, water, and other resources, pursuant to federal law. The Tribe is also a sovereign government with management capability and
regulatory authority over such resources. The Spokane Tribe has developed a Wildlife Management Plan, Wildlife Habitat Management Plans, Lake Roosevelt Fisheries Guiding Document, and Hatchery Plan, and have immense cultural ties to the Columbia Basin River System.  Authorities are based on federal law, Tribal Law, and agreements between the Tribe and other resource management and Federal agencies.

This contract intends to continue the Spokane Tribe’s involvement in regionally important processes and programs.  This involvement includes coordination and communication with the Northwest Power and Conservation Council
(NPCC) Bonneville Power Administration, and as non-members, with the Columbia Basin Fish and Wildlife Authority members and the Kalispel Tribe of Indians. This is particularly important in the implementation of the NPCC’s Fish and Wildlife Program and the Northwest Power Planning and Conservation Act of 1980.