The Blackfoot Confederacy, through the Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council (BCTC), is launching a comprehensive feasibility study to explore the potential transformation of Waterton Springs Campground into a premier Blackfoot eco-cultural destination. This initiative underscores the Confederacy’s ongoing commitment to preserving the land while offering enriched cultural experiences for both community members and visitors. The project is designed to deliver sustainable long-term benefits- social, environmental, economic, and cultural, to all four Blackfoot nations, with a particular focus on Blackfoot traditions and the expanding Indigenous Tourism sector.

Active engagement with Confederacy members is crucial to the success of this initiative. By gathering insights and feedback, BCTC ensures that the project reflects the collective goals, knowledge, and values of the four nations. The feasibility study serves as the foundation for evaluating the potential for ownership and revitalization of the campground.

At this preliminary stage the project remains conceptual, and no final decisions have been made regarding development plans or timelines.

To guide our way forward, four local Community Liaisons from each of our Nations will be embracing any and every kind of contribution and feedback from our community members, hearing ideas and perspectives through coffee chats and the online survey.

Our Community Liaisons are:

• Heather Black – Kainai-Blood Tribe
• Jamie Spring Chief – Siksika Nation
• Lailani Upham – Aamskapi-Pikuni
• Leilani McDougall – Piikani Nation

An online survey has also been developed to ensure broad participation and engagement within the community. Members are strongly encouraged to contribute their ideas and perspectives by completing the survey or participating in interviews. This will ensure that the recommendations align with the collective vision and priorities of the Siksikaitsitapi Nations.

If you are a community member in the region, you can become involved by sharing your insights via a brief survey which can be found here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BCTC-Campground

Contact and Media:

Theoren Royal,
Corporate Affairs and Communications Manager
Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council
Email: Theorenr@blackfootconfederacy.ca

Kimmy Houle,
Director of Environment, Lands, and Economic Development
Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council
E-mail: Kimmys@blackfootconfederacy.ca