Gov. Brian Schweitzer says American Indian reservations can lure businesses and economic development by promoting their pool of available workers.

"The most important thing we can do for our children and their children is economic development in Indian country," Schweitzer told the 2008 Tribal Leaders Summit in Helena.

Monday's summit was designed to encourage dialogue between state and tribal governments. Leaders from each tribe were present, along with the governor's cabinet.

While Montana has a low overall unemployment rate, the number of people out of work on reservations can run as high as 50 percent. Schweitzer said he tells companies that have a hard time finding workers that reservations have a "ready and willing" work force. Schweitzer also said reservations can help attract businesses by working with the state to improve training at tribal colleges.

Tribal leaders, each given a chance to report on issues affecting their reservations, told Schweitzer they agree that more help is needed to improve tribal colleges. Others expressed concern over dated water systems and securing economic development funds.

Tribes said they also appreciate the governor's help advancing energy issues, and hope that oil and coal development can be expanded on the Crow, Northern Cheyenne and Fort Peck reservations.

Arlen Headdress, a Fort Peck tribal councilman, said his reservation is hoping for an "onslaught" of oil development following recent news reports that deposits in the region are larger than previously believed.