The Creighton Research Institute, in answer to a legislative mandate, addressed four objectives in conducting this needs assessment of Indians residing in Nebraska in 1977: (1) estimating their statewide population, (2) describing social and economic characteristics, (3) determining their needs, and (4) documenting the services and programs available to them. Background interviews were conducted with 18 Indian leaders and 13 government officials, and extensive interviews were held with a sample of 292 American Indians. For the estimated 15,205 population, the unemployment rate was 14%, almost 5 times that of the statewide rate; their average income was less than 60% of all Nebraskans in 1975. Household size was significantly larger, but their rate of homeownership was only 25%, with homes and apartments being small and crowded. More than one third of the persons interviewed had been arrested, with the most common offenses being alcohol-related; drinking problems were reported in 21% of the households surveyed. Nebraska Indians were less likely to seek medical help from available sources, and they had generally received less formal education than all Nebraskans, yet education and health were perceived by the Native Americans to be their two most significant areas of need. (JD)