The Nisqually tribes primarily relied on fishing, with salmon being a crucial food source and the foundation of their economy and culture. In addition to fishing, they hunted deer, bears, and elk, raised horses, gathered berries and grasses, harvested shellfish, and dug camas roots in the prairie lands. The restrictions imposed by their reservation led them to demand their fishing rights in the 1960s and 1970s. In 1974, federal judge George Boldt's decision to grant the tribe access to over half of the steelhead and salmon from their fishing grounds improved their situation.
oday, the tribe earns a significant portion of its income from selling fish from two hatcheries. Additionally, their economy benefits from enterprises like the Red Wind Casino and a solar greenhouse.
Housing
The Nisqually constructed two types of houses: sturdy, permanent cedar post houses for winter, and cone-shaped summer houses that were temporary and easily transportable. The winter houses were carefully built using cedar planks, which provided insulation and protection from the harsh winter weather. These houses were often large and could accommodate extended families, serving as the center of social and cultural life during the colder months. In contrast, the summer houses were designed for mobility, allowing the Nisqually to move with the seasons and follow resources such as fish and game. These cone-shaped structures were made from materials that were easy to assemble and disassemble, reflecting the tribe's adaptability and deep connection to their environment. This dual housing system exemplified the Nisqually's resourcefulness and their ability to thrive in a diverse and changing landscape.