The term "Kootenai" refers to a Native American tribe primarily located in the northwestern United States and parts of Canada. The Kootenai people have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their traditional practices, including fishing, hunting, and gathering. Their language, also called Kootenai, is a member of the Salishan language family. The Kootenai tribe is recognized for its historical significance and connection to the Kootenai River, which flows through their ancestral lands. Today, the tribe works to preserve its culture and language while engaging in economic development and environmental stewardship in the region.