Big Valley Rancheria
The Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians of the Big Valley Rancheria is a federally recognized tribe of Pomo Indians, with a reservation located in Lake County, California, near the town of Finley. They conduct tribal business from Lakeport, California.
The tribe formed its current governmental system under the Indian Reorganization Act of 1935 and ratified its constitution on 15 January 1936. Tribal membership is open to any descendant of the tribal members listed on the official 1935 census rolls, regardless of blood quantum. Today tribal enrollment is estimated to be 1230.
The traditional language of the tribe is Eastern Pomo, also known as Bahtssal or Clear Lake Pomo. The tribe has been able to hold Eastern Pomo language classes, bring together elders with younger tribal members for lessons, and document elders speaking both in audio and video recordings.
Economic development for the tribe has been possible through the creation of the Konocti Vista Casino, which is located near Lakeport, on the shores of Clear Lake. The Big Valley Band also owns a hotel, marina, RV park, the Ku-Hu-Gui Cafe, and the Point Bar as part of the casino resort.
The tribe has an annual Tule Boat Festival with boat building, environmental programs and races among the participating tribes.
Government
Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians is a self-governing Native American tribe, with four active members on tribal council. Council positions include; Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Treasurer, and Secretary. The tribe is federally recognized, with an estimated 1230 members. Tribal government has the power to write and enforce its own ordinances; such as, regulation of commerce, tax, and set up judiciary and police enforcement systems and other powers delegated to local government. The tribe often models its own government after that of the local county government. Being that the tribe is in close proximity to the ocean, they work closely with the EPA to ensure that their lands are maintained.http://www.courts.ca.gov/14938.htm