The Blackfeet Nation of Montana is seeking the return of a sacred area that tribal elders say was never ceded to the federal government.

The Badger-Two Medicine area of the Lewis and Clark National Forest was part of an agreement signed in 1896. Tribal elders say they only meant to lease the land to the government for 99 years.

The 130,000-acre area is prized for its oil and gas resources. The tribe plans to oppose any development, seek co-management duties with the government and lobby for the return of the land.

Get the Story:
Blackfeet tribe lays claim to park land (The Missoulian 11/16)

Relevant Links:
Blackfeet Nation - http://www.blackfeetnation.com

Related Stories:
Sport hunters convince Bush not to drill in Rockies (10/06)