Yakama Indian Reservation

Yakama Indian Reservation in Washington state (Openstreetmap)

Yakama Indian Reservation

The Yakama Indian Reservation is a Native American reservation located in Washington, United States. It is the home of the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation. The reservation covers a large area of approximately 1.2 million acres (4,856 km²) and encompasses significant portions of Yakima, Klickitat, and Benton counties.

History

The Yakama Indian Reservation was established in 1855 through the Treaty of Walla Walla between the United States government and the Yakama tribe. This treaty was part of a larger series of negotiations and treaties in the Pacific Northwest aimed at relocating Native American tribes onto reservations to open up land for European-American settlement. The Yakama people agreed to cede over 10 million acres of their ancestral lands in exchange for a smaller area designated as the reservation and certain rights, such as fishing, hunting, and gathering traditional foods.

Geography

The geography of the Yakama Reservation is diverse, ranging from arid desert in the south to forested mountains in the north. The reservation's landscape includes part of the Cascade Range, with Mount Adams being a prominent feature. The Yakima River runs through the reservation, providing vital water resources for agriculture, which is a significant part of the reservation's economy.

Demographics

The population on the Yakama Reservation is primarily composed of Yakama Nation tribal members, but also includes non-Native residents. The Yakama Nation is a confederation of 14 tribes and bands, each with its own distinct culture and history.

Economy

The economy of the Yakama Reservation is diverse, with natural resources playing a significant role. Agriculture, forestry, and fishing are traditional economic activities that continue to be important. The Yakama Nation also operates several enterprises, including a casino, a resort, and various retail businesses. In recent years, the Yakama Nation has also ventured into winemaking, taking advantage of the favorable climate in the region.

Culture

The Yakama Nation maintains a rich cultural heritage, with traditional practices and ceremonies still playing a vital role in community life. The annual Treaty Days celebration commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Walla Walla and is an important cultural event. The Yakama Nation Museum and Cultural Center is a key institution for preserving and sharing Yakama culture and history.

Government

The Yakama Nation is governed by the Yakama Tribal Council, which is responsible for managing the reservation's affairs in accordance with the tribe's constitution. The council is composed of representatives from the different tribes and bands that make up the Yakama Nation.

Environmental Issues

The Yakama Reservation faces several environmental challenges, including water rights disputes, pollution, and habitat destruction. The Yakama Nation has been actively involved in efforts to restore and protect the natural environment, particularly salmon habitats in the Columbia River and its tributaries.

See Also

• Native American reservations in the United States
• Treaty of Walla Walla
• Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation

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