Big Pine Paiute Tribe of the Owens Valley
A Federally Recognized Indian Tribe
Our ancestors lived in harmony with all organisms through a lifestyle based on traditional subsistence. Our ancestors gathered resources from the earth in a varying schedule which relied on seasons and locations. In the fall, the most important food item for our ancestors, Pine nuts were gathered. Pine nuts were gathered in the mountains and sometimes if the crop was plentiful, they would stay in the groves throughout the winter. In spring, the valley floor would create an abundance of plant resources including seeds, berries and roots vital to the health of our people. All the resources our ancestors needed for a subsistence lifestyle relied on one variable which was unpredictable water.
Tribal Council
An elected five-member Tribal Council oversees a staff of approximately 20 employees, and staff is responsible for carrying out tribal business, overseeing finances, providing education, utilities, housing and social services, preserving cultural heritage, and protecting the environment.
The Tribal Council Agenda and related meeting minutes (Closed session meetings not included) will be posted for those tribal members and tribal council on the website with registered authentication. See the enrollment committee for related access.
