The Crazy Mountains—or Awaxaawippíia, as they’re known to the Apsáalooke (Crow) tribe—are a special and important mountain range in Montana. Not only are they an ecologically diverse landscape, but they’re also vital to Indigenous heritage.
Recently, the Apsáalooke tribe and the Forest Service have been working together to protect this unique area.
This article will dive into the significance of the Crazies Mountains, with a special focus on current conservation efforts and tribal importance.
Why the Crazy Mountains are sacred to the Apsáalooke tribe
The mountains known as the Crazy Mountains are called Awaxaawippíia in the Apsáalooke language, and they’re far more than just a geographical feature to the Apsáalooke people. These mountains are considered an integral part of tribal identity and are deeply connected to the tribe’s spiritual beliefs.
The Crazy Mountains are designated an “area of tribal importance,” a designation meant to protect treaty rights and traditional cultural practices.
The Apsáalooke people have traditionally used the mountains for vision quests, plant gathering, and ceremonies. Protecting the area ensures that these cultural practices can continue.
Conservation Efforts in the Custer Gallatin National Forest
From 2015 to 2022, the U.S. Forest Service worked on a revised plan for the Custer Gallatin National Forest, which will guide the future of the Crazy Mountains. The goal of the revision was to balance conservation with other potential uses of the land.
As part of the plan, almost 10,000 acres in the southern portion of the Crazies were designated as Recommended Wilderness. Additionally, more than 30,000 acres were designated as a backcountry area, where motorized vehicles are prohibited.
These designations are designed to limit development and protect the area’s natural environment.
The collaboration between the Apsáalooke (Crow) tribe and the Forest Service is a model for successful cooperation between tribal nations and federal agencies in land management.
To Conclude
Protecting the Crazy Mountains is an important step toward honoring Indigenous cultural heritage. For the long-term health of this unique landscape, stakeholders must continue to work together.
The Crazies remind us of the need to balance conservation with cultural sensitivity and respect, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the natural beauty and cultural significance of this unique range.