Ninepipe Reservoir was created in 1912 as for irrigation to the surrounding Confederated Salish and Kootenai Reservation lands. The first lands of the WMA were purchased in 1953 and an active period of acquisition occured from 1955 to 1962. The Ninepipe WMA consists of approximately 3,800 acres surrounding the Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge. At approximately 3,000 feet above sea level, the property consists of rolling, open grasslands and numerous prairie potholes, or kettle ponds. There are remnants of native rough fescue grasslands but today, the area vegetation is mostly introduced grasses and croplands. To conserve and enhance habitat conditions to support optimum production of upland game birds and waterfowl, while providing conditions for nongame wildlife and allowing year-round wildlife-related recreational opportunities. Ninepipe WMA is located in the lower Flathead Valley in Lake County. The WMA rests about one mile East of Charlo, about 20 miles south of Polson, and 50 miles north of Missoula. The area is owned by FWP and lies within the exterior boundaries of the Flathead Indian Reservation. The WMA occupies both sides of Highways 93 and 212.