Final answer:
The Northwest Indians had an abundant supply of a. wood from the dense forests of the Pacific Northwest, which they used for their homes, totem poles, canoes, and tools.
Step-by-step explanation:
The natural resource that was abundantly available to the Northwest Indians was wood. The Pacific Northwest region is renowned for its vast forests, which provided an ample supply of wood for various uses. This resource was crucial for the indigenous peoples in the area for building homes, totem poles, canoes, and creating tools, as well as for everyday living needs like heat and cooking.
Unlike the Plains tribes, who utilized rawhide for many of their needs including clothing and storage, the Northwest Coast tribes had access to large forests of cedar and fir that allowed them to develop a unique wood-based culture. The significance of wood is evident when considering the impressive woodworking skills of these tribes, demonstrated by intricate carvings and constructions such as the renowned totem poles. Moreover, the abundant salmon from regional rivers, also mentioned as an important source of protein, further emphasizes the reliance on regional natural resources that shaped the lifestyle and culture of Northwest Indigenous groups.