CKST BISON RANGE

The CSKT Bison Range, encompassing 18,766 acres at the heart of the Flathead Indian Reservation in Montana, is a living testament to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes' enduring relationship with bison and the land. Established in 1908 by the U.S. government, the Range was returned to the Tribes in 2020 through Public Law 116-260. This historic restoration recognized the Tribes' ancestral stewardship and their pivotal role in bison conservation. Today, the Range is managed by the CSKT Natural Resource Department, overseeing a herd descended from the original Pablo-Allard stock, which tribal members helped reintroduce when plains bison were near extinction

Visitors to the Bison Range can explore its diverse ecosystems via scenic drives, including the Red Sleep Drive and Prairie Drive, offering opportunities to observe bison and other wildlife in their natural habitats. The Range also hosts "The Gathering," a biennial event where bison are brought in for veterinary checks and genetic testing, reflecting the Tribes' commitment to sustainable wildlife management.

CSKT Bison Range Website

The CSKT Bison Range represents a historic triumph in ancestral land reclamation and ecological stewardship following the return of the 18,766-acre range to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. Managed by the CSKT Natural Resource Department, the site seamlessly integrates Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) with contemporary wildlife biology to preserve native grasslands, vital aquatic ecosystems, and the free-roaming bison herd descended from the historic Pablo-Allard herd. For prospective artists, this breathtaking environment offers an inspiring living landscape deeply rooted in tribal sovereignty, cultural memory, and ecological resilience.

Artists in residence at the Bison Range enjoy unique opportunities to immerse themselves in place-based storytelling and community-driven initiatives. Through programs guided by the CSKT Information & Education Program and CSKT Culture Committees, residents can collaborate with wildlife biologists, explore traditional practices, and contribute to vibrant local outreach. Artists can engage directly with regional youth and tribal elders through creative workshops and mobile initiatives like the Kwul 'I'tkin Maker Truck—a collaborative cultural makerspace connecting STEM, traditional knowledge, and hands-on art making. This opportunity invites creators to forge meaningful connections between artistic expression, environmental stewardship, and the enduring heritage of the Salish, Pend d'Oreille, and Kootenai peoples.

While in residence at the CSKT Bison Range, artists will have access to the following:

• An on-site workspace, possibly a public-facing workspace or a workspace in the visitor center.

• Access to the newly redesigned visitor center and museum.

• Opportunity to participate in educational programming as desired.

• Opportunity to engage with wildlife biologists in the field.

• WiFi 

• Artists must be comfortable working outdoors in Fall Montana weather conditions.

This residency experience is part of our Indigenous Initiatives program. CSKT Tribal members and MT Tribal members are encouraged to apply.

The Bison Range is located in the heart of the Flathead Indian Reservation on the traditional lands of the Flathead, Salish and Kalispel people.

The Bison Range is about 45 miles north of Missoula and 44 miles south of Polson, MT.

As part of the CSKT Bison Range's goals to support local indigenous artists, this residency is designed for indigenous artists living within driving distance of the CSKT Bison Range (housing is not provided). Applicants for this residency must have a vehicle.

In addition to an artist presentation, the artist will have the opportunity to teach one or more compensated workshops on-site with visiting youth groups.

• READ ADDITIONAL FAQ’s document

• Open AIR is committed to accessibility. If the application process or fee poses a barrier,  please reach out to Rachel at program@openairmt.org