Tatl’a Fall Newsletter — 2020
Newcrest Red ChrisUpdate . . Galore CreekFishing Program . . TNDC Profile TNDC Update TNDC – Devon Lee Nole&ShannaCreyke Inspiring YoungTahltans Tahltan Forestry Ltd . INDUSTRY UPDATE – Mackenzie Dennis& Waylon Asp. Active TahltansHealthy Culture –DaleCampbell Elder –AliceHamlin. PERSONAL PROFILES Membership &Genealogy–ShannonFrank . Dease Lake Community Director –Freda Campbell Education & Training –Cassandra Puckett . . Culture &Heritage–Sandra Marion Fisheries –CheriFrocklage . Wildlife –LanceNagwan Lands –NalaineMorin DIRECTORS’ TahltanWorks becomes Tahltan OnTrack . Tahltan OnTrack . TAHLTAN ONTRACK Cassandra Puckett –Education& Training Director . Pamela Labonte –LanguageDirector . Ann Ball–Employment &Contracting Director NEW STAFF Tahltan Nation Text AlertService. Condolences . New Tahltans COVID-19 Update Save theDates TahltanDay T-shirt Message from the Vice President Message from thePresident INTRODUCTION Medevac Update ...... REPORTS . . . .
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...... 30 48 49 38 39 29 45 35 43 33 23 19 16 37 15 27 51 13 41 14 21 12 17 3 1 11 8 6 5 7 Contents TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
Message from the President
The Wildlife Department went above and beyond this year by expanding their program to block off over twenty access points in Tahltan Territory and by hiring more seasonal staff to assist in our collective goal to keep recreationalists and hunters away from our vulnerable communities.
We anticipate these collective efforts, coupled with robust communication from our government and media partners, helped limit recreational and hunter traffic by at least fifty to seventy- five percent as compared to other years.
We were highly disappointed by the lack of support offered by the Province in limiting traffic into our communities, but this did not stop us from taking Chad Norman Day This was a very challenging fall season unlike anything matters into our own hands to help keep our local we had ever experienced. The ongoing vulnerabilities President, Tahltan Tahltan people safe. Central Government in our homeland during the COVID-19 pandemic coupled with the influx of resident hunters during As the economy, small businesses and employment the hunting season created a very stressful situation numbers suffer across the world with the continuation for Tahltan Territory. of the COVID-19 era, it’s important we as Tahltan people acknowledge how blessed we have been to not only I commend everyone who assisted us in keeping our keep COVID-19 out of Tahltan Territory, but to have communities safe and thank our people for your continued accomplished this without significant impacts to the vast majority of our local workers. Red Chris Mine, patience as we consistently take measures to limit the Brucejack Mine, a thriving mineral exploration industry, traffic and activities in and around our local communities and all our Tahltan governments and entities worked together to ensure our employees were safe and could of Iskut, Dease Lake and Telegraph Creek. continue to provide for their families; we must applaud the considerable efforts made by all stakeholders and I am truly excited to welcome some new members partners. Our success with safety and sustaining a to the TCG Family. Ann Ball will be taking over as the healthy economy in Tahltan Territory is unprecedented Employment & Contracting Director, Pamela Labonte in BC and we achieved this accomplishment together. has become our new Language Director, and Cassandra Puckett is joining us as our new Education & Training Director. These three women come into their respective roles with a vast amount of experience that will surely propel the TCG Team and our Tahltan Nation to the next level. I want to thank Adrian Carlick for his dedication to the TCG when he was employed in the Education & Contracting role and wish him well on his new endeavours working with Industry. The growth of our central government’s capacity and team will not stop here and I encourage everyone to review several new job postings for the TCG in the near future.
1 MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Below: One of the many COVID-19 Restriction gates erected by the Tahltan Guardians.
For those Tahltan entrepreneurs and workers that live outside our homeland who have had their livelihoods negatively impacted, we encourage you to reach out to our TCG Team and consider returning to the homeland and taking advantage of the contracting and employment opportunities available to our people. I understand that mining and camp life are not for everyone, but maybe they can offer you some interim solutions and relief if you are otherwise going through some financial struggles at home. For others, perhaps this is a perfect opportunity to upgrade your education or pursue post-secondary studies online. As a reminder, TCG’s Education & Training Department is very flexible and offers up to $10,000 per year and additional scholarship/bursary opportunities to a plethora of students and/or trainees.
Improving our governance internally within the TCG and laterally with other Tahltan entities continues to be a focus, particularly in this time period of so much economic growth and capacity building. Over the winter season, following the election of the new Tahltan Band Chief and Council, we fully intend on signing a historical TNDC Protocol Agreement, Tahltan Heritage Trust Protocol Agreement, and aim to robustly update the TCG Governance Manual and the Tahltan Nation Protocol Agreement. All of these agreements, policies and processes therein are extremely important for us to maintain certainty, unity and accountability with our leaders, entities and personnel across the Tahltan Nation’s governments and entities.
In closing, I would like to welcome all the new Tahltans who were born this last quarter and express my condolences for those of you who have lost a loved one.
Klane Nedischā. TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
Message from the Vice President
The theoretical framework the TCG follows is that all Leaders are independent, equal, and autonomous. Another key element of our system requires a collective decision, with ideally a consensus approach. To achieve this, we need to learn to have an open conversation with a goal to build a common understanding.
The TCG has a governance framework in which the organization follows a set of procedures when incidents are brought to its attention. Following this process, the Board as a collective group makes a decision. Within a situation, there can be complicated factors which the Board needs to consider.
TCG is committed to building its internal capacity to support its growth. To provide members with a channel to address their concerns, we created a complaints process, led by a Complaints Committee. The Complaints Committee is tasked with coordinating a third-party Ken Edzerza The recent months have seen two of our Nation’s investigation to provide a report that outlines the facts, with a focus on evidence as opposed to opinion. Vice President, Tahltan organizations, TCG and TNDC, hold virtual annual Central Government general meetings, which saw both Leaders present what we consider successful years and bright futures. Once an investigation is triggered, TCG must meet certain standards, called ‘Administrative Fairness’. The process As we pass the 110th Anniversary of the Tahltan of administrative fairness is guided by a fact-based Declaration, our Nation finds itself in a period of approach, which takes time to gather the information from all parties involved, in a transparent way. growth with exciting potential, but we are also experiencing internal conflict. These forces can Unfortunately, the outcome of a conflict resolution process will not always please everyone. Regardless either make our collective future better or carry of the outcome, the decisions need to be respected us into a future of conflict. The wisdom will be how even if one does not agree with them. TCG assures we navigate the next 10 years. our members that we take concerns seriously, and will follow protocols, committed to the principle that any Holding a leadership position within our government complaints must be supported by the facts. comes with a commitment to being open, honest and transparent to our members while also addressing In conclusion, there is a saying that a lie only becomes their concerns. With this commitment in mind, I wish a truth when people want it to be. to address feedback that has been shared by some members. While respecting confidentiality, I will strive to respectfully address concerns as best as I can.
Right: A Chief Nanok window etching, based off a portrait by Carmen Dennis, is part of the new entrance at Dease Lake School. The other door features the 1910 Declaration.
3 SECTION TITLE
4 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020 110th Anniversary of our Declaration – T-shirt
To recognize Tahltan Day and the 110th Anniversary of our Declaration, we had 1000 special edition T-shirts printed.
Due to COVID-19 we could not gather to celebrate and gift these shirts at our gathering. Therefore, we gave away these shirts in a different way, a way that includes Tahltans who otherwise might not have come back home to celebrate.
T-shirts were available in Iskut, Dease Lake, Smithers, Telegraph Creek, Terrace, Vancouver (Lower Mainland), and Whitehorse, the locations where the most Tahltans reside.
The sizes available – in limited quantities – were as follows: Adult XXL, Adult XL, Adult L, Adult M, Adult S, Youth L, and Youth M. First come first served.
A special thank you to DEASE LAKE: Shirley Nehass, ISKUT: Jodi Payne, SMITHERS: Shannon Frank, TELEGRAPH CREEK: Carmen McPhee, TERRACE: Calvin Carlick, VANCOUVER (LOWER MAINLAND): Gordon Infanti (TCG Communications & External Relations Director), and WHITEHORSE: Gayle Ball for distributing these immensely popular T-shirts.
5 SAVE THE DATES Upcoming holidays and Tahltan events
Ȗ DECEMBER 19–JANUARY 3: TCG closed for Christmas Vacation
Ȗ JANUARY 18–22: AME Remote Roundup
Ȗ FEBRUARY 15: Family Day – TCG Closed
6 NEW CHANGES/ADDITIONS TO OUR COVID-19 POLICIES AND REGULATIONS First, masks are now mandatory in all community spaces in Dease Lake, Iskut and Telegraph Creek and hand sanitizing is a must. Second, in-Territory residents are still allowed essential travel only (medical related appointments) within Northwest BC (Terrace, Prince Rupert, Kitimat, and as far as Smithers only); however, we are recommending you now self-isolate for 14 days upon return to the Territory. DO NOT MOVE AROUND IF YOU DO NOT HAVE TO. Third, anyone who receives a COVID-19 test MUST quarantine while waiting for test results.
THE FOLLOWING MEASURES REMAIN IN PLACE IN TAHLTAN TERRITORY:
NON-TERRITORY RESIDENTS ARE ASKED TO ASSIST THE TAHLTAN NATION IN OUR EFFORTS TO STAY AT HOME AND TO NOT TRAVEL TO TAHLTAN TERRITORY.
NO HUNTING, CAMPING, OR RECREATIONAL ACTIVITY IN TAHLTAN TERRITORY.
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL ONLY.
TAHLTAN NATION COVID-19 LOCKDOWN PROTOCOL
If/when a positive test for COVID-19 has been confirmed, by health officials, in any of the three Tahltan 1 communities, all the communities will go into immediate lockdown. Emergency Management Committee’s and/or Tahltan leadership (President and both Chiefs) can 2 declare a lockdown; however, only Tahltan leadership can lift the lockdown order upon approval from the Public Health Officer.
PLEASE ENSURE YOU DO THE FOLLOWING:
PHYSICAL DISTANCING WASH HANDS REGULARLY Do not gather in groups. Ensure you stay a Wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds or minimum of 6 feet away from other people. more. Soap is the best-known remedy for killing this virus so wash frequently.
AVOID ALL NON-ESSENTIAL DON’T TOUCH YOUR FACE TRIPS IN YOUR COMMUNITY Don’t transfer the virus into your body by Stop going to other communities. Limit the touching your eyes, nose or mouth. If you have number of times you go to high traffic areas to cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose such as the store and post office. with a tissue or sleeve.
Contact tracing, if the virus reaches our Territory, will identify the individual responsible. DO NOT LET THAT BE YOU!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION For the most up to date information visit the Tahltan COVID-19 landing page at: tahltan.org/covid-19
7 Dease Lake health clinic and airport. TAHLTAN MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION UPDATE MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION IN TAHLTAN TERRITORY IMPROVED For those living in Tahltan Territory, access to timely medical transportation is an issue that Tahltan Leadership takes very seriously.
Medevac times reached an unacceptable 20.5 hours during COVID-19 and Tahltan Leadership was forced to secure and pay, together with some of our partners, a helicopter based in Terrace to ensure our people have access to the medevac services that those in other parts of the Province enjoy.
AUGUST 10 On August 10, 2020, Tahltan Leadership (President Chad Norman Day, Vice President Ken Edzerza, Chief Rick McLean, and Chief Marie Quock) met DEASE LAKE with Premier John Horgan, Minister Adrian Dix, and Minister Doug Donaldson.
MEDEVAC TIME IN TAHLTAN TERRITORY Tahltan Leadership expressed firmly to the Province that medevac times in Tahltan Territory 20.5 5.3 were unacceptable, and something must be done HOURS HOURS to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our people. Tahltan Leadership set out several solutions they demanded be met.
Tahltan Leadership has met with the Province two times since.
Tahltan Leadership is happy to inform that since our first meeting Medevac times in Tahltan Territory have decreased from 20.5 hours to 5.3 hours, closer in-line with provincial expected timelines.
What is more, the Province is acting on all our proposed solutions including:
• High impact changes have been the • Northern Health is looking at a staffing plan 24/7 call escalation to BCEHS and NH to have ICU nurses out of Mills Memorial
TERRACE leaders, no refusal policy and expedited support critical care transports. As a new transfer planning. model we are working with unions on this.
• Transfer process improvements have seen • BCEHS continues working with Summit a 6-step process with inherent waits for as to night flying and night vision goggles. receiving physicians and bed availability • BCEHS/NH and Ministry of Health in talks move to a 4-step process with early with Yukon Air to collaborate on better way activation of transport resources. to serve patients in both jurisdictions. • Dispatch standing operating procedures • Initiation of the plan to increase the fixed wing in place for no refusal and early activation resource in Prince George from 12/7 to 24/7. as of August 28.
We will continue to work with the Province to ensure our people and everyone in Tahltan Territory receive the timely medical transportation they deserve. Further updates will be provided when they become available.
9 MEDEVAC UPDATE
Medevac response times to Tahltan territory drastically improved
Article from Terrace Standard | Ben Bogstie, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter | Published September 15, 2020
Medevac calls are now treated like 911 calls elsewhere in the province
Medevac response times to Tahltan territory are now faster than ever, speeding up by nearly 75 per cent since July this year, from around 20 hours to just over five hours.
“5.3 [hours] right now, we are thrilled with because we can work with that,” said Feddie Louie, director of the Tahltan Emergency Operations Centre.
Doctors in Tahltan territory have been working to speed up the process for over a decade. Prior to the changes this year, a call to British Columbia Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) underwent multiple steps. Tahltan doctors had to contact hospitals to find and with the airstrip are hesitant to land there, and there secure a bed and an available doctor, adding time and are no nighttime capabilities at the airstrip. Above: A BC Ambulance uncertainty to the process. Service Bell 412 EPI The Stikine Airport Society is seeking funding for a helicopter deployed by Those steps caused medevac response times to significant project to improve the airport. Summit Helicopters in Penticton. Photo: Williams balloon to between 17.5 hours and 22.5 hours from the Lake Tribune. time the call was made to when a transport was on the “The upgrades that are being proposed will allow any ground to pick up a patient — critical situation or not. pilot to land on there and feel confident about landing on there because right now we have no nighttime Now, medevac calls are treated the same as a 911 call capabilities, and we very recently lost one of our young from anywhere else in the province and no hospital can people because a plane couldn’t land at the Dease refuse a patient from Dease Lake. Lake airport due to no proper lighting,” said Louie.
“They don’t wait to find a bed, they don’t wait to find a Negotiations are underway to authorize aircraft based doctor, the only thing they’ll do is figure out what kind in the Yukon to provide medevac services to Dease Lake of resource to use, whether it’s fixed wing, rotary or Airport, because those pilots are generally more familiar road,” said Louie. with the airport compared to pilots from B.C.’s south.
“We have struggled with this for a long, long time, Louie said doctors in Dease Lake have been working being provided with services that the rest of B.C. for more than 10 years to reduce medevac times with enjoys constantly.” little progress, but the COVID-19 pandemic has helped to push the changes ahead. Prior to the changes, response times were so slow that the Tahltan Central Government had partnered with “COVID helped get that issue to the forefront because resource companies to pay for a fixed wing asset to sit the very first medevac we had in March was a patient at the Terrace airport in case it was needed. in respiratory distress, that patient didn’t get moved for 22 and a half hours and from the grace of God he The provincial government has agreed to pay the $1,500 was not COVID positive,” she said. daily cost of the aircraft, which was previously split between the Tahltan, Newcrest Mining and Brucejack Mine. “It created an opportunity for us to come together, us meaning NHA (Northern Health Authority), FNHA Still, issues of familiarity and infrastructure at the (First Nations Health Authority), Tahltan, BCEHS, Dease Lake Airport is a barrier to effective medevac Ministry of Health, everyone being on the same page services. Currently, the issue is that pilots not familiar working towards the same goal.”
10 11 October 4,2020 Shannon Dennis& Taylor Boyes MICAH AVERY ALEC DENNIS NEW TAHLTANS ·CONDOLENCES 8lbs 8oz
September 30,2020 Rudi Carlick&Leonard Hotomanie HOTOMNIE-CARLICK LILY PEYTON New
10lbs Tahltans
July 24, 2020 Jesse Gagnon& Tara Lynn Losier CRUZ JOSEPH GAGNON May 11,2020 Stacey Clethroe &Sarah Fox FOX CLETHROE MYLAH MAY MARIE July 22,2020 Amber Asp-Chief&Kyle Simon GRAHAM CHARLES SIMON 9lbs 3oz 5lbs 8oz 7lbs
NEW TAHLTANS · CONDOLENCES
STORMI TRAVELLE TASHOOTS BRINLEY SUSAN DAWN SOFIA ELEANOR Morgan Quash & Gilbert Tashoots Jr. WALKER-QUOCK VIOLET ADSIT September 7, 2020 8lbs 3 oz Michael Quock & Colleen Bailey-Walker Dallas Adsit & Sally Tait July 30, 2020 8lbs July 24, 2020 8lbs 7oz
LEONA RIVER BELLE NAYLI JULIE NETSENA TOMMY GARNET OLIVIA DENNIS Jasmine Netsena & Shawn Bertrand DANTY HAWKINS Darcie Louie & Nick Dennis September 23, 2020 8lbs 7oz Aaron Hawkins & Allysha Fryer-Thomas October 29, 2020 8lbs 11oz November 2, 2020 7lbs 15oz
Condolences
LOUISE (ETZERZA) FRAMST JENNY (LOUIE) QUOCK SALLY (QUASH) KRISTENSEN May 1944–September 2020 November 1942–August 2020 April 1938–October 2020
12 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
TAHLTAN NATION TEXT ALERT SERVICE Connecting our Nation via Text
WHAT? Communicating important Tahltan-related alerts and advisories through mass text 1-855-583-0579 messaging to the Tahltan Nation database . TCG invites you to learn about Tahltan-specific job opportunities WHY? by attending tonight’s 7pm virtual Ȗ We are able to communicate to the OnTrack info session on Zoom: Nation in a quicker, more efficient manner ontrack.tahltan.org/webinar Ȗ Cost effective medium to communicate with the Nation Ȗ Texting has by far the best engagement rate of any marketing medium:
• 30% email blast open rate* • People check their phones around 80 times a day
HOW? Ȗ The text “from” number will show as 1-855-583-0579 Ȗ You are already “opted in” from the general Tahltan Nation Member database list Ȗ If you wish to opt in a new number or opt out contact: [email protected] Ȗ Examples of text messages include press releases, urgent advisories, and upcoming events .
*30% open rates are based on historic TCG email campaign data.
13 NEW STAFF – ANN BALL
New Staff Ann Ball
Ann is a member of the Tahltan Nation via the Etzenlee Family. She brings 32 years’ experience from the mining industry and has been involved in assisting the TCG in many ways over these years including as a committee member of the TCG’s Education & Training Department and the Family Rep for the Etzenlee Family. She developed the Galore Creek Mining Corporation (GCMC) bursaries, provided great support to students over the years and assured that many local companies recognized Tahltan students for future employment.
Ann is married to Wayne Ball and has raised fourteen children with one left at home in grade 9. She is an enthusiast of hunting, fishing, and cultural activities and has 18+ years with the Canadian Rangers. Ann lived in the Territory for 25 years and she and Wayne still own a house in Dease Lake as well as cabins within the Territory. Ann has a diverse educational background and received her Bachelor of Business Administration in 2012 with Magna Cum Laude, which was obtained while working full time and raising her family. She also has her 3rd year carpentry apprenticeship and in 1991 received her heavy equipment operators certification. Ann Ball Ann left her role at GCMC after 17 years to bring her Employment & Contracting Director expertise to the TCG. Ann believes the role of Director of Employment & Contracting will be challenging but rewarding, as she can now support her fellow Tahltans in both employment opportunities and business opportunities and maximize the Impact Benefit Agreements with the mining companies and Opportunity Agreements with mineral exploration companies.
"Ann believes the role of Director of Employment & Contracting will be challenging but rewarding, as she can now support her fellow Tahltans in both employment opportunities and business opportunities and maximize the Impact Benefit Agreements with the mining companies and Opportunity Agreements with mineral exploration companies."
14 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
New Staff Pamela Labonte
I recently joined the Tahltan Central Government (TCG) as Language Director and am honoured to be entrusted with the role's responsibilities. Originally from Saskatchewan, I completed my Bachelor’s Degree (Linguistics) at the University of Regina (U of R). My time at the U of R and First Nations University of Canada (FNUC) were foundational towards my chosen career path. I then obtained my Master's Degree (Linguistics) at the University of Alberta and have since been able to continue with opportunities in using the most innovative approaches to language reclamation initiatives. I come to the TCG with extensive experience in similar and related roles with other First Nation communities.
I approach language reclamation from a holistic manner that honours and respects how Indigenous knowledge, worldviews, and culture are embedded within the language. My strengths include applying reclamation best practices in realistic and pragmatic ways and building cohesive teams that work toward language reclamation with a shared vision.
When I am not working, I enjoy keeping busy with 3Rs – Pamela Labonte running, researching, and relaxing. Although researching is a little like work, as the adage says, “if you love what Language Director you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.” That is how I truly feel about what I do. I have a young family, so the physical running helps me relax before I figuratively run my two daughters to their extracurricular activities. I am excited about the future of the TCG Language Department and I look forward to one day being able to meet everyone in person.
"I approach language reclamation from a holistic manner that honours and respects how Indigenous knowledge, worldviews, and culture are embedded within the language."
15 NEW STAFF – PAMELA LABONTE & CASSANDRA PUCKETT
New Staff Cassandra Puckett
Since 2015, I have had the privilege of working with the First Nations Health Authority, where I have spent most of that time as the Vancouver Coastal Regional Mental Health and Wellness Manager. In this role, I provided guidance and leadership to the regional mental health team while working closely with 14 First Nation communities in strategic planning to address gaps and support communities during times of crisis. I also have had the opportunity to work provincially as a senior advisor for the cultural safety and humility team with a focus on ensuring BC First Nations receive culturally safe care in the health system.
My lived experience has provided me with opportunities to overcome adversity and I am grateful for the difficulties, as they have led me to embrace First Nations ceremonies (such as the sweat lodge) to support personal health and healing. With those teachings, I am committed to approaching my work through values that are rooted and grounded in traditional and cultural teachings in the best way I can.
While I may have lived in many places across BC and Cassandra Puckett Yukon, my heart has always been at home in Tahltan Territory. I am incredibly excited and honoured Education & Training Director for the opportunity to work for the Tahltan Central Government and to serve my nation as the Education My name is Cassandra Puckett and I am a Tahltan & Training Director. I wholeheartedly look forward to Member from the Dekama family and belong to spending more time in the Territory and re-connecting the Tsesk'iye clan. My grandparents were Una Mary with the land and our people. Campbell (Dease) and Richard (Dick) Campbell, and my mother is Lillian Campbell (Tiger Lil). Growing up, we lived in Terrace and moved to Dease Lake in 1980. My fondest memories are travelling to Telegraph to "I am incredibly excited and honoured for the visit my Grandma Una where she always had a pot of opportunity to work for the Tahltan Central soup and bannock on. Government and to serve my nation as the I left home at the age of 16 to finish high school and Education & Training Director." eventually attained a Master of Social Work (MSW) within the Indigenous Field of Study in Ontario. The MSW program provided me with teachings in understanding how tradition and culture are foundational in all that we do as First Nations people and that an Indigenous worldview is how we continue to thrive as First Nation peoples towards self-sufficiency and self-determination.
16 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
Tahltan OnTrack
The Tahltan Central Government is working hard to connect Tahltans–no matter where you live, your education, or your job experience–with the vast array of job opportunities in Tahltan Territory!
17 TAHLTANSECTION ONTRACK TITLE
ABOUT TAHLTAN ONTRACK Discover your perfect career Find a career, not just another job. Join the Tahltan OnTrack website and discover Tahltan-exclusive jobs – tailored to fit your life.
Vanessa McLean began her career working as a housekeeper at Galore Creek . While out in the field one day, an operator let her try one of the machines and she was hooked . Vanessa then decided to take the ITA Heavy Equipment Operator Training and pursued a career as an equipment operator . View her and other success stories at ontrack.tahltan.org
HARDWIRED FOR SUCCESS
Tahltans have always known that we have a unique skill set and problem-solving is in our blood. Tahltans who work in resource development know that these skills are transferable to the workplace. The resource development industry needs workers with a vested Ready to test interest in their projects. OnTrack showcases our skills and connects Tahltan job-seekers with opportunities. your skills? IN CONTROL OF YOUR FUTURE Visit Tahltan OnTrack to learn more By creating your own profile in the OnTrack database, Tahltans are able to create a resume and connect with and match your skill set with current Tahltan-exclusive employment opportunities. After employment opportunities. completing an essential skills assessment, you will automatically be notified of new jobs that match your career interests and essential skills.
GET ON TRACK ontrack.tahltan.org Learn about the jobs you qualify for, regardless of formal education. Tahltan Members can earn certification and qualifications for their skills, identify opportunities for education and training, and follow career building paths.
18 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
REDEFINING HOW WE CONNECT TAHLTANS TO JOB OPPORTUNITIES TahltanWorks becomes Tahltan OnTrack
Above: Tahltan OnTrack With the launch of the Tahltan OnTrack website, the Facebook Group. TahltanWorks Facebook group has been rebranded to Tahltan OnTrack.
We will continue to post all job, training, and education opportunities to this private page. We can also provide assistance registering for the Tahltan OnTrack site and guidance for the OnTrack database, test and assessments.
The group is available only to Tahltan Members and it will not show up in searches on Facebook. To join, message Ann Ball (Employment & Contracting Director) or Freda Campbell (Dease Lake Community Director) on Facebook and we will add you to the Tahltan OnTrack Facebook group. If you are not on Facebook, please send Ann Ball your resume after November 16th at: [email protected].
Be specific about the type of opportunities you are looking for and please include a cover letter detailing your interest and experience.
Remember, if you’re unable to qualify for a job due to lack of proper education or certificates, there are funds available to all Tahltan people through TCG’s Education & Training Department.
19 Directors’ Reports
21 — Lands, Nalaine Morin
23 — Wildlife, Lance Nagwan
27 — Fisheries, Cheri Frocklage
29 — Culture & Heritage, Sandra Marion
30 — Education & Training, Cassandra Puckett
33 — Dease Lake Community, Freda Campbell
35 — Membership & Genealogy, Shannon Frank
20 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
Lands Director Report
The Lands Department and THREAT have been working on several project committees involved in permit amendments and major studies.
The Red Chris Mine is currently applying for an amendment to the Environmental Assessment (EA) certificate to expand the camp. THREAT is also reviewing permit applications with EMPR and MOE for an adit (passage or tunnel into the earth) to support the exploration program at the mine. A working group has been established under the Environmental Oversight committee to review expansion plans for the mine.
A working group has been established with Skeena Resources to review proposed activities for the Eskay Creek project. Skeena is proposing the development of an open pit mine operation for the old Eskay Creek Nalaine Morin The Lands Department is responsible for the mine site. THREAT has also completed a Tahltan Land Use and occupancy study for the project. Lands Director implementation of the Shared Decision-Making Agreement and the management of referrals, the Tahltan Stewardship Initiative project, and technical support services for major projects and special projects.
Our objective is to make changes in the way natural resource management is done in Tahltan Territory, and the way Tahltans participate and take a leadership role in improving the way natural resource projects are developed.
TAHLTAN STEWARDSHIP INITIATIVE
The Tahltan Stewardship Initiative (TSI) project aligns numerous related Tahltan governance, reconciliation, and land management activities. A steering committee has been established for the project and work planning is currently being developed.
SHARED DECISION-MAKING AGREEMENT
The Shared Decision-Making Agreement is currently being reviewed by the Lands Department and the Province. Possible enhancements to the agreement are being discussed which ensure the agreement aligns with new commitments to reconciliation between the province and Indigenous governments.
21 LANDS – NALAINE MORIN
KLAPPAN BOARD
Above: Tahltan Leadership The Klappan Plan, signed in August 2019, is a The Klappan Board has recently finalized a Section 17 with Doug Donaldson, collaborative land use plan between the Tahltan Nation designation protecting the Sacred Headwaters from then the Minister of and the Province of BC. The Plan includes three land industrial activities applicable to the BC Land Act for Forests, Lands and Natural use zones and provides management direction and a minimum of 20 years. This designation, together Resource Operations, and Rural Development for objectives that guide the location and type of resource with the Mineral Tenure Act No Registration Reserve British Columbia, at the management activities within these zones. and the Coal Act Coal Land Reserve already in place Klappan Plan signing over Zone A, provide the Klappan area with substantial August 27, 2019. • Zone A defers industrial development in the Sacred protection from future development pressure. Below: Tahltan leadership Headwaters for a minimum of 20 years while and members and allowing appropriate non-industrial activities such Thinking to the future, the Klappan Board is planning representatives of the B.C. provincial government as guide outfitting, trapping and recreation. Tahltan community engagement sessions to further mark the signing of the develop management direction and objectives for Zone Klappan Plan Aug 27, 2019 • Zone B requires proponents to account for A. This will further empower the Board to guide Klappan near Iskut. Tahltan values prior to development. area management and development.
• Zone C provides predictability for culturally and environmentally responsible economic development.
The Klappan Decision-Making and Management Board, created in March 2017, provides a decision- making structure to implement and oversee the Klappan Plan. Made up of three Tahltan and three BC representatives, the Board is responsible for implementing the Plan and maintaining a shared vision for the Klappan area that ensures key values are upheld for current and future generations.
22 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
Wildlife Director Report
Lance Nagwan Our Guardians have been working hard Right: COVID-19 Closure on the Jade Boulder Rd. At Wildlife Director this fall season placing physical barriers the height of the season, gatekeepers kept 24-hr on access roads off Highway 37. watch at the post.
These COVID-19 measures were put in place to deter any unnecessary travel into Tahltan Territory anywhere past Bob Quinn. Some access areas have signage while others have swing gates to allow local community members to harvest in the areas of cultural importance.
We trust our important work was not a major inconvenience and that you were still able to meet your harvesting needs.
The Tahltan Predator Management Plan (TPMP) has been initiated with a focus on reducing the influx of predators in Tahltan Territory, especially since the grizzly bear hunting ban was put into place. Tahltan Members are encouraged to exercise their Aboriginal Right to harvest predators within Tahltan Territory. To receive financial compensation for your harvest, a Member must provide the TCG with photographic evidence and sign a harvest policy document stating conditions of the harvest.
23 WILDLIFE – LANCE NAGWAN
24 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
It is our desire to curb the declining caribou and moose populations by multiple means and we will continue to work with the 3 Nations and the BC government to advance ungulate management.
Above: Cinnamon black The TCG Wildlife Department continues to work with bear in Tahltan Territory. the BC Conservation Officer Services; specifically, we are working together to implement a rapid reaction time to incidences reported to each respective agency.
Theodolite App & Hunt Buddy BC HOW TO SUBMIT PHOTOGRAPHIC EVIDENCE OF BEAR HARVESTS
For those who would like to submit photographic based evidence online, our Guardians use the Theodolite app. If you would like to check out hunting regulations as it relates to where you are on the landscape, we use the Hunt Buddy BC app. Our Guardians use this app to check on what Management Unit (MU) they are in or to check on specific regulations in the BC hunting and trapping synopsis. Both are excellent tools that I recommend to anyone wanting to contribute to better wildlife management.
Download these apps before you hunt!
Above: Denise Nole using the "Theodolite" app to submit photographic proof of a black bear harvest.
25 WILDLIFE – LANCE NAGWAN · TAHLTAN USE OF BEARS
Tahltan use of Black Bears and Grizzly Bears
TAHLTAN ANCESTRAL STUDIES ETHNOGRAPHIC LITERATURE The Tahltan Ancestral Studies (TAS), which include information Whereas TAS data provides more geographical detail as to where derived from many interviews with Elders born in the early 1900s black and grizzly bears could be found, the kind of habitat they or earlier, demonstrate an extensive and intimate knowledge of preferred, and where they were hunted, ethnographic literature black bears and grizzly bears in Tahltan Territory. They describe provides further detailed accounts of how Tahltans used the bear habitat, where bear dens are located, and where you should bears they killed. They discuss the use of different parts of the go to hunt bears in the fall and in the spring. bear, including: grease, meat, head, and hide. They also tell of the spiritual significance bears hold for Tahltans.
USES OF BLACK BEARS & GRIZZLY BEARS
NUTRITIONAL
• Bears were hunted for meat at high elevations in the fall and in • Bear heads were eaten after being roasted by suspending the valleys in the spring, normally with Tahltan Bear Dogs. them over a campfire with an antler hook attached to a horizontal pole. • In the fall, bears were also hunted for their fat, which they have in abundance at that time. • Bear paws were cooked by boiling water in ground pits that were lined up with spruce or birch bark and traditionally • Bear flesh dried on poles over campfires before being heated up with hot stones. eaten sometimes. • Fern rhizomes were often eaten with bear grease. • Dried bear meat and rendered fat were often stored in cache pits in the area of fall camps at timberline. • Berries of all kinds were eaten with bear grease; often bears and the berries were harvested at the same time in the fall.
MATERIAL SPIRITUAL
• Skinning knives were made from the longitudinal flat section • Grizzly bear is one of the crests of the Nana’ai. of lower leg bone of the bear and were often decorated with • One method of acquiring the spirit power or manitous of lines and geometric patterns and coloured with red ochre. the bear was through cutting its tongue and going through • Bear hides were used for robes, bedding, and rugs. Tahltan rituals thereafter with other medicinal plants and/or other animal parts (ie. grouse feathers). • Hides of any kind of animal that had been de-fleshed during the fall or winter were often covered in bear grease as a • Other bear rituals vary depending on the clan, time of year, means of preservation until they could be worked again. and purpose.
26 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
Fisheries Director Report
The 2020 season brought many unforeseen challenges, which required adaptation to effectively plan and deliver the various fisheries stock assessment and monitoring activities that would typically occur. The Fisheries staff met these challenges head on and did a remarkable job despite these obstacles. On behalf of Fisheries Manager Kerry Carlick and myself, we extend our sincere gratitude to all the Fisheries Department staff for their ongoing dedication to the Stikine River Salmon resources. They play a huge role in the caretaking and management of these culturally important stocks, and without their contributions, our department would not exist. Mēduh. Please watch for the Tahltan Fish & Wildlife Newsletter for full introductions of our Nation’s Fisheries Department staff. We remain honoured to serve both our members and the salmon.
Staff safety remains our priority. All projects were carried out in accordance with the local COVID-19 Cheri Frocklage The days are growing shorter while protocols to ensure the health and safety of all our field staff as they conducted their duties in the Fisheries Director the leaves are changing colour and various remote field camps. falling. The pungent smell of ripe cranberries permeates the cool autumn air as the land prepares for the blanket of snow, soon to come. Locals are bustling, bringing in the winter wood and hunting to fill their freezers. This signifies the closing of another field season for the TCG Fisheries Department.
"On behalf of Fisheries Manager Kerry Carlick and myself, we extend our sincere gratitude to all the Fisheries Department staff for their ongoing dedication to the Stikine River Salmon resources. They play a huge role in the caretaking and management of these culturally important stocks, and without their contributions, our department would not exist. Mēduh."
27 FISHERIES – CHERI FROCKLAGE
Below: Tahltan River.
STIKINE SALMON ESCAPEMENTS – 2020 Preliminary summaries in the table below.
Chinook / King Salmon Pre-season forecast estimated at 13,400 fish and current information suggests the in-season run was consistent with the forecast.
Little Tahltan River 392 Large and 795 Jacks
Sockeye Salmon Final in-season run estimated to be 60,000-85,000 salmon (30,000-45,000 Tahltan Lake origin). This is below the 10-year average of 114,700 and below the pre-season forecast of 103,000.
Tahltan Lake 11,158
CANADIAN HARVESTS – 2020 Preliminary summaries in the table below.
Commercial 6,188 Sockeye, 0 Chinook, 5,098 Coho
Food Fishery 5,423 Sockeye, 389 Large Chinook, 642 Jack Chinook CULTURE & HERITAGE – SANDRA MARION
Culture & Heritage Director Report
There will be different levels of access to the archives, depending on the person and purpose. For example, whether you are Tahltan or not, doing research for your own personal insight regarding our historical information or research for a thesis, a book or building a curriculum. As we are stewards of our land, water, fish, and our wildlife we also need to be stewards of our historical information. Our plan is for community consultation to help inform us what levels of engagement suit the Tahltan Nation best.
A lot of our initiatives have been delayed due to COVID-19 restrictions and we have indeed been prevented from gathering as we are accustomed. As a result, we will focus on continuing to strengthen the base of this new department and look forward to having more meaningful engagement with all Members soon.
Dẕenēs̱ hoti’e, Tahltans. Autumn is upon us and we have For the cultural side of my department, we have been watched Mother Nature as her leaves turn the wonderful working towards hiring a Cultural Team Lead. We have decided to reconsider our tactics on how we roll out colours of yellow, orange, and red, as they prepare to fall groupings for workshops inside and outside Territory, off the trees. I would like to take this opportunity to give until we can safely gather. My department is considering the idea of following the lead of the Tahltan Band and you a brief update on a few of our projects here in the their sewing kits they distribute in-Territory. We will be Culture & Heritage Department. encouraging our Members to learn how to embroider, as we have heard several times that our people practiced Sandra Marion You may have seen the archivist job posting on our embroidery before beading. I will be bringing these ideas forth soon, so we have other avenues for our people to Culture & Heritage website, Facebook page and other media platforms. Director We have had an impressive response and are now in the virtually gather while discussing all sewing projects. hiring process. Once we have a qualified professional on board, we will be focusing on the coding structure as well as the digital structure of the archives while also ironing out our standard operating practices to ensure the sustainability of the archives. As part of building a sustainable archive, we plan to build further capacity within our Nation and hire a Tahltan to care for and maintain our digital and physical archives.
"My department is considering the idea of following the lead of the Tahltan Band and their sewing kits they distribute in-Territory. We will be encouraging our Members to learn how to embroider, as we have heard several times that our people practiced embroidery before beading."
29 EDUCATION & TRAINING – CASSANDRA PUCKETTE
Education & Training Director Report
1. FUNDING TCG MEMBERS IN POST- SECONDARY, TRADES AND SHORT- TERM CERTIFICATION COURSES
The Education & Training Committee developed the Education & Training policies and application forms found on the TCG website:
• Post-Secondary Education & Trades Training
• Short-Term Training and Certifications Program
To qualify for funding an applicant must:
• Be of Tahltan ancestry
• Be a certified registered Member of the TCG
• Be in good financial standing with the TCG, Tahltan Band and Iskut Band, if applicable
• Be applying for funding for a program that meets the Cassandra Puckett program eligibility requirements set out in the policy
Education & Training Director In the 2019/2020 academic year, the TCG Education & Training Department spent $126,234.33 funding our Members: The TCG Education & Training Category # of Students $ Amount Department currently has four Short-Term Certifications 7 $5,786.94 areas that we focus on: Post-Secondary Education 24 $114,317.14
1. Funding TCG Members in Post- Trades Training 5 $6,130.25 Secondary, Trades and Short- Total 36 $126,234.33 Term certification courses
2. Tahltan bursaries A total of 57 Tahltan students applied for funding with the TCG Education & Training Funding Program and 3. Providing training within 36 were funded. As part of the application process Tahltan Territory we require that students apply with their Band and their local Indigenous Skills and Employment Training 4. Creating a Tahltan Skills Program. Therefore, many students who apply with Inventory (OnTrack) the TCG are funded by other organizations.
Currently, we have 45 Tahltan students applying for funding for the 2020/2021 academic year.
30 EDUCATION & TRAINING – CASSANDRA PUCKETTE
2. TAHLTAN BURSARIES The budget for the 2019 Wildfire Training courses were:
In the 2019/2020 academic year the bursary awards Tricorp $17,500.00 dispersed to Tahltan students were: TCG Cash $5,721.60
GCMC $15,000.00 TCG/TNDC/NLC In Kind $1,325.00
Red Chris Development Company Ltd. $30,000.00 Total $24,546.60 AltaGas Ltd. $26,000.00 4. CREATING A TAHLTAN SKILLS Tahltan Guide & Outfitters Association $9,000.00 INVENTORY (ONTRACK)
Total $80,000.00 • OnTrack was launched on July 25, 2020.
• The TCG and Essential Skills Group have In the 2020/2021 academic year the bursary awards collaborated to create and market OnTrack. available to Tahltan students are: • The OnTrack Marketing Strategy initiated in GCMC $15,000.00 December 2019 and will go into January 2022.
Red Chris Development Company Ltd. $30,000.00 Summary (as of September 5, 2020) AltaGas Ltd. $26,000.00 Total investment in Tahltan workforce to December 2019 is: Tahltan Guide & Outfitters Association $9,000.00 TCG Education & Training $126,234.33 Seabridge Gold Inc. $40,000.00 Funding Program
Total $120,000.00 2019/2020 Tahltan Bursaries $80,000.00
Dease Lake Bootcamp $233,955.52 3. PROVIDING TRAINING WITHIN TAHLTAN TERRITORY 2019 Wildfire Training Courses N /A
Total $440,189.85 • The 2020 Dease Lake Bootcamp had 85 applicants, 58 participants and produced 11 Bootcamp This amount can be broken down: Graduates. Tricorp $78,662.27 • The 2020 Dease Lake Bootcamp had an 87% attendance rate, a 91% success rate and 273 TCG Cash $170,209.85 certificates were issued. TCG/TNDC/NLC In Kind $13,525.00 The budget for the 2019 Dease Lake Bootcamp was as follows: TCG Communication Agreements $97,792.73
Industry (Bursaries) $80,000.00 Tricorp $78,662.27
TCG Cash $43,975.52 Total $440,189.85
TCG/TNDC/NLC In Kind $13,525.00 Which was invested in the following:
TCG Communication Agreements $97,792.73 TCG Education & Training Program 36 Students
Total $233,955.52 2018/2019 Bursaries 39 Students
Dease Lake Bootcamp 58 Students • The 2020 Wildfire Training & Crew Boss Certification Courses were cancelled due to COVID-19; however, we 2019 Wildfire Training Courses N /A still have the funding and can hold the training once we are able to host training programs in the Territory. Total 133 Students
31 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
15tʰ Annual GCMC/Tahltan Nation Bursary Award Recipients
This year on October 18th, Tahltan Day, we marked the fifteenth anniversary of the bursary award program GCMC Academic Bursary Winners offers for Tahltans pursuing post- secondary education in Canada. Brianna Tashoots 1st place – $2500 Bursaries are awarded based on the following criteria: academic achievement, community involvement, and Kamaria Dennis 2nd place – $2500 educational as well as career goals. Bursaries are not restricted to educational programs directly related to Blaine Lindstrom 3rd place – $2000 mining, but special consideration is given to applicants whose career goals relate to the mining industry. Kody Penner 4th place – $2000 There were 29 applicants this year, and it was scored by a team of 7 adjudicators: 4 of which were Tahltan, Ben Chief 5th place – $1000 1 from Teck, 1 GCMC consultant and one independent scorer, well-versed in working in Tahltan Territory. All Levi Sladen 6th place – $1000 volunteer adjudicators, we must add, and many doing this for GCMC and the Tahltan Nation for several years. Carmen McPhee 7th place – $1000 We wish our 2020 bursary award winners continued success in their studies. Caden Wallace-Booth 8th place – $1000
Non-academic Bursary Winners
Nathan Nole 1st place – $1000
Kiana Blackwood 2nd place – $1000
Jordan Botel 3rd place – $1000
Megan Rousseau 4th place – $1000
Shana Dennis 5th place – $1000
Teneal Nole 6th place – $1000
Melinda Hole 7th place – $1000
32 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
Dease Lake Community Director Report
As the Dease Lake Community Director, I have been working on the following:
CONTACT NORTH
The communities of Dease Lake, Iskut and Telegraph Creek will be participating in a pilot project initiated by Coast Mountain College to provide online learning and online learning centres to community members. Contact North will be partnering with Coast Mountain College to provide this service. Contact North has been providing remote indigenous communities in Ontario with this service for 25 years. If all goes well, Contact North will be rolled out in January 2021.
CTEM (CENTRE OF TRAINING EXCELLENCE IN MINING) MINE TRAINING PROGRAM
Freda Campbell I began this new role on July 1, 2020, CTEM is developing a mine training program that Dease Lake but without a new Education & will serve the remote communities of the Northwest. Community Director There is currently a program running in Kamloops in Training Director I continued to work partnership with New Afton Mine. Brucejack Mine and with Tahltan students to ensure there Red Chris Mine are keenly interested in partnering and providing employment for the students of this was no disruption in the funding of program. I have been working with both the Mining their education. Industry Human Resources Council and CTEM to move this initiative forward and I anticipate the program will begin in the winter of 2021.
ONTRACK
On July 25, 2020, OnTrack the Tahltan Skills Inventory was launched. We have an 18-month marketing strategy that is funded by the Sector Labour Market Partnerships Program. OnTrack is a very important tool for the local workforce as it offers capacity development without having to return to school and it provides employers insight into the local workforce’s hidden essential skills. The success of OnTrack is very important and I will continue to work on this until it can be handed over to the new Employment & Contracting Director. I have been working with employers in Tahltan Territory to encourage their participation and with Tahltan Members to encourage them to register and use OnTrack.
33 DEASE LAKE COMMUNITY DIRECTOR – FREDA CAMPBELL
Above: New doors BRINGING TOGETHER CONTACT 2021 DEASE LAKE BOOTCAMP & being installed at the NORTH, THE MINE TRAINING 2021 WILDFIRE TRAINING & CREW Dease Lake School. PROGRAM AND ONTRACK BOSS CERTIFICATION
I have been working towards bringing Contact I have started planning the 2021 Dease Lake Bootcamp North to Tahltan Territory and I would like to see and started discussions with the Emergency Response the Mine Training Program be the first program team in Dease Lake and our education provider around offered through Contact North to students in remote planning a training session that will provide adequate northwest indigenous communities. I envision part safety measures for COVID-19. of the program being offered remotely in community learning centres, and part of the program being TRADES TRAINING offered onsite in an operating mine. We began discussions to do this on September 3rd. I am working with the Industry Trades Authority to bring trades training to Tahltan Territory and to make the Contact North will be able to fund the wages TCG become a sponsor of Tahltan apprentices. We are and training of a student support person in each discussing making OnTrack the tool we use to register community. They have agreed in theory to train the apprentices and track their hours. This would eliminate support people hired in each community to also one of the barriers to becoming an apprentice, which support OnTrack. I see OnTrack and Contact North is finding a sponsor. We could become responsible for evolving together and supporting each other. I have all Tahltan apprentices and support them through their been working with Coast Mountain and Contact entire apprenticeship. North since January 2020 to have Contact North implemented in our communities in a way that WESTT supports our own capacity development initiatives. I have made inquiries to TRICORP about having a Train the Trainer WESTT (Workplace Essential Skills Trades Training) program in Dease Lake. This is a completely new idea, unlike anything TRICORP has done in the past. I am hopeful we can have this program in Dease Lake in the spring of 2022 in a fashion that could provide the training to students, and train a local community member to provide the training in the future on an ongoing basis.
34 MEMBERSHIP & GENEALOGY – SHANNON FRANK
Membership & Genealogy Director Report
Fellow Tahltans. A call out to update.
Is it easy to do? Yes, it is very easy to do and you can do it anytime by going to our website: www.tahltan.org
What do I need to do exactly? Simple.
1. Go to the TCG website. 3. Scroll down to the Contact Update Form section and click on Contact Update Form. 2. At the top of the home page (upper right) click on Tahltan Membership. 4. Fill out and click Submit.
How often should I update my information? We need you to update your contact information regularly so we can keep you informed. We distribute updates not only regarding elections, but also with critical information for Shannon Frank you and your family, such as Impact Benefit Agreement (IBA) votes, employment and Membership & Genealogy Director training opportunities, scholarships, education, and much more.
Are there any other reasons to update my information? For additional information please contact: Yes! And this is especially true for: Shannon Frank Teenagers and Young Adults – When Babies and Children – If you have a new Director of Membership & Genealogy registering children, parents use their own baby, or if you have children that may or informationdirector@tahltan .org email addresses and phone numbers. As may not be registered, please complete Roxanne Ball those children grow older and begin to and submit a new membership form on think about future education and training their behalf. This ensures their registration Membership Clerk opportunities, they need to update their and their eligibility for TCG programming. roxanne ball@tahltan. .org email, phone number, and address to stay Moved/Moving – If you have moved it is current and to receive information. very important to update your information. Married Recently/Name Change – If you Passings – It is important for our vital have decided to change your legal name statics to be accurate. Please register the you must update your information and passing of any Tahltan Members with us report your name change. to guarantee our information is correct.
Transparency is very important to us. Therefore, please register and update your information regularly to stay current on all things affecting Tahltans.
35 Personal Profiles TAHLTAN CENTRALGOVERNMENT
carving, aspecial order SunMask. – FALL NEWSLETTER2020 Dale Campbell's (pt. most recent 36 Right: Alice at the 2019 AGA.
ELDER Alice Hamlin
just wanted them to be different, they wanted are afraid to say it. Because then we must them to move forward in the world and not explain what that means. And what it means look back to what they came from.” is that there are some things we must talk about and it is tough, and we still have to do But Alice’s mother would not allow that. it. …it is the knowledge of the Tahltan Nation She took her children up to the reserve every that we are losing completely. Even if you do chance she got. Together, the family only not agree with it, you still need to know.” spoke Tāłtān. They only went to English when Peter was around because he did not Alice feels respected as a leader but worries understand Tāłtān. “Other than that, that’s that other Elders lack the opportunities all we heard... So we knew a lot of words. available to her: “They’re very good about We as kids used to play and talk amongst that. They do listen to what I have to say. I ourselves as well, but not as fluently. have never been treated badly or anything Anyway, a lot of us grew up, went away, and being on the Board. In fact, I feel very, very married non-native people ourselves, and safe on that Board. So, I would like to see that lost even that much more.” other Elders are given that opportunity.”
Alice Hamlin’s Tahltan grandparents are Susie Alice was away a long time, but she returned She worries of the knowledge and traditions and William Jakesta. William came from the to Telegraph in her 40s and re-connected lost whenever we lose an Elder but reminds Ch’iōne clan and Susie from Tsesk’iye and immediately. People trusted her; they knew also of how much remains: “somebody the Carlick family. Alice shares her name with her family and remembered her as a child. always knows something.” This is why it is her mother, Alice Jakesta, who was born and In the 1990s, she raised funds for, built, and so important to have an Elders Council, Alice raised in Sheslay. When she was 22, Alice then managed a transition house, the Three argues, and that the council meet not only for Jakesta married a 42-year-old prospector Sisters Society. Alice has now been involved in politics but for culture too. Alice proposes that from Chicago, Peter Hamlin. Peter arrived in community politics and social issues for over the Elders Council holds meeting to sort out Telegraph Creek in 1910, at the end of the Gold thirty years, including as a Board Member for what the Elders know, how to document their Rush. It was common at the time, older single TNDC and TCG (a seat she still holds). knowledge, and how to share it for teaching. men coming and staying. Many people lived along the Stikine and the new couple joined “The Tahltan tradition is women made Such meetings would come naturally to the them, staying on the river for seven years decisions and the men carried them Elders, Alice describes: “What Elders really while Peter prospected. They travelled too, all forward,” Alice shares. enjoy doing is sitting down talking …because the way down the coast to Vancouver. Alice one might tell a bit of a story that they know, Jakesta had never been beyond Telegraph. “They used to meet in Tahltan for the whole and maybe they don’t know it all, but another summer, while our people were fishing: might learn and add something, and they put In the 1930s, when they decided to have fishing and meeting, and fishing and the pieces together and we figure it all out. children, the couple moved to town. meeting. And the women were asked what And that is how we do it.” Alice Hamlin was born there in 1940. they thought. They knew what was going “There was a lot of prejudice when I was a on. They would talk about it amongst The Elders want to share their knowledge kid in downtown Telegraph Creek, in that the themselves, and then tell their husbands, both as teachings for the young and native people lived up on top, as opposed to their fathers, and their families how they felt guidance for the Nation. For the latter, Alice what we were referred to as, ‘half-breeds’, and what they thought about things. Tahltan proposes an Elders’ seat on the Board, a who lived downtown. And I don’t know what women are very strong women. And very rotating position: each meeting, a different it was, but it was almost a thing that if you opinionated. It comes from all that. We are Elder attends to share their perspective and were a ‘half-breed’, the fathers didn’t want the leaders in the Nation because we are wisdom. The Elders want to be involved and their children to mix with the family up on matriarchal. That is really important and they want to be useful, Alice offers: “We the reserve,” Alice remembers. “They didn’t we’re losing that. People do not even know need to give back and the way we can give want them speaking the language... They what that means today because people back is with our knowledge.”
37 Right: Dale picking hodzih łanāw on Tahltan Territory.
CULTURE Dale Campbell
The thing was: when you’re going to go visit Dale is a celebrated carver. Her work is in an Elder or someone who lives alone, you museums across Canada and the US. She didn’t just go and visit and they start telling and her brother have a thirty-foot totem pole you stories. First, you had to chop wood for standing in Kowloon, Hong Kong. They raised them, pack water for them, and they’d tell you it there, with Tahltan dancers, when Canada that: ‘Sure be nice if you could chop wood, presented the pole as a gift in July 1, 1991. then we’ll have the tea and bannock ready…’ Traditionally Tahltan did not carve totem They were teaching us a life lesson: you don’t poles. They carved goat horn spoons, get anything for free, you gotta work for it, you soapstones, and utensils for daily living. gotta earn it. The Elders’ job to teach young Dale has Tlingit blood on her father’s side: Dale Campbell’s parents are Harry and Peggy people about life and what you got to do.” “they’ve always have been avid carvers, that’s (née Edzerza) Campbell. Her grandparents are where I get it from.” Richard Campbell and Una Dease, and Mary Dale says it was mind-blowing as a seventeen- Brown and Belfrey Edzerza. She is in the Thud year-old, hearing their traditional stories. Tahltan bought and traded for carvings when Ga family and Ch’iyōne clan. Her Tahltan name She valued growing close to her relatives, they gathered once a year with Tlingit and is Tahlthtama, ‘Tahltan Mother’, and was given especially her grandma Una. Una raised twelve Tsimshian at the Sacred Headwaters. The to her by her great grandmother, Emma Brown. kids, baked bread for mining companies, coastal nations brought oolichan grease, the and worked as a midwife delivering most of Tahltan brought obsidian. Dale describes, Dale’s parents grew up in Telegraph Creek. Telegraph’s babies. Even the hippies came “all these nations gather together, of course Looking for work, her mother Peggy left upriver to get their babies delivered by Una. they intermingle. Tahltans are the ones who downriver on the steamboat ferry. On her own, shared the wolf clan with the nations on the Peggy made her way to Prince Rupert and By going to Telegraph each year, Dale coast and inland. How did they get that? found work at the hospital. When Harry arrived learned Tahltan ways. “I had my own net, They had to mate with a person, it’s a blood later, they got together and started a family. pulled, canned, smoked and salted fish, cut thing, to get the wolf clan. We’re all related enekāga… I learned bear hunting, moose somehow, through all these meetings.” Dale was born, raised, and still lives in hunting, setting snares, the basic stuff that Prince Rupert. She grew up hearing stories Tahltans used throughout their lives.” Each year, Dale travels to Santa Fe for the of Telegraph Creek. At seventeen, as she biggest Native Art show in the world. Her studied carving with Dempsey Bob, she grew Dale continued visiting with family, attending masks and headdresses have won first and increasingly interested in where her family wedding, potlatches, funerals, headstone second place awards. Sometimes, when came from. She had heard all the stories, raisings. She practiced traditional dancing Navajo or Apache find out she is Tahltan, now she wanted the experience. and ceremony. On the way home, she stopped they say: “Oh my god, we’re related!” in Dease to pick hodzih łanāw, balsam bark, Dale started spending her summers in and traditional Tahltan medicine. Next year, if a grant goes through, Dale will have Telegraph, living out of a tent frame for four- a show with four other First Nations women to-five months at a time: Dale suggests to the younger generation: artists at the Bill Reid Gallery in Vancouver. “If you want to be more traditional, go back “It was a completely different dimension. home. Go back to Telegraph. Get to know Dale considers her son, Aidan Campbell- Imagine living there, no running water, no the people up there, find out about your Wilkins (25), her greatest creation. electricity. The source of entertainment family history. It gives you a sense of who was visiting people. you are and where you come from.”
38 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
HEALTHY ACTIVE TAHLTANS Mackenzie Dennis
hunts with her father. In the summertime she helps process fish at fish camp, quads, hunts, and dirt bikes. She received her first dirt bike for Christmas when she was 11 years old. She says it was tough learning and there have been crashes, but she always gets up and rides on. Mackenzie has many hobbies but one of her favourites is shooting guns.
Mackenzie got her first gun when she was seven years old from her Grandma Melva. It was a pink .22 caliber rifle that she used to hunt her first grouse at the same age. Since then she has shot many guns, including a 12-gauge shotgun, CZ Scorpion S3 9mm, .270 and .30-30 rifles along with others. She always keeps her aim on point by going out with family to practice shooting targets. Her motto is “One shot, one kill.”
It is February 2020 in Dease Lake and the air is cold. Mackenzie Dennis is with her father and they spot a moose. This is the moment she has trained for since shooting her first pellet gun at five years old. She puts the moose in the rifle’s cross hairs, but her heart is pounding and the scope waivers. Quickly remembering her training, she takes some deeps breaths and calms herself. She is ready. With a smooth squeeze of the trigger, she sends the bullet directly This affection for guns led her to being prepared for through the moose’s heart. Within an instant the moose when it truly mattered back in February when she shot takes off, but it does not go far. At the age of 13, Mackenzie her first moose. It took three days to fully butcher, transport and hang the moose. Her dad taught her has just successfully harvested her first moose. the proper process to harvest the animal from the beginning to end. She also learned lessons like how Mackenzie has spent her life in Dease Lake. Her parents to track animals, skin them, where to shoot, and more. are Cindy Dennis and Dennis Quock. Her grandparents This was her first moose and she said the feeling was are Jean Blackburn, Joe Dennis, Melva Quock and incredible. Later that year Mackenzie hunted her first Doyle Day. She is part of the Tsesk'iye clan and the bear. She was out on a day trip with her dad when they Shoe Kawk family. saw it. Calmly, she did what she was taught and hit the bear directly through the heart. It was the second Participating in outdoor activities has been part of large animal she harvested but will not be the last. Mackenzie’s entire life. At the tender age of one month She is planning on sheep hunting as well. Mackenzie’s old, she would take snowmobile rides with her parents. affection for being outside has led her to stay active She stays active throughout the year with a variety and always assure her shot is on point. of activities. During the winter she snowmobiles and
39 PERSONAL PROFILES – HEALTHY ACTIVE TAHLTANS
HEALTHY ACTIVE TAHLTANS Waylon Asp
Waylon loves the combination of physical and mental challenges, “and the fact that, in combat sports, your success and failure depend entirely on yourself. There is high level thinking and quick reactions, and it trains me to be mentally tough. Plus, it is just fun to smash the heavy bag or spar with friends and training partners.”
At home, he eats well. His dad cooks healthy. There are no specific dishes that Waylon eats the most. “Generally, chicken breasts, broccoli, and white rice are an easy and clean combination.”
Overtraining is a major challenge for Waylon. He acknowledges a need to work on “taking an active interest in recovery and stretching.” In addition to training for kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, he also focuses on strength and conditioning training, which means it can be hard to find a balance and enough time.
Waylon’s advice for other Tahltans considering a lifestyle change? “There are so many ways to get fit, and tons of Waylon Asp is the son of Eldon Asp and grandson sports and activities to choose from. If you don’t of George Asp. He is part of the Etzenlee family and Ch'iōne clan. He is 17 years old and lives in Victoria, BC. like one kind of exercise, find something else that you can work hard at and have fun with. As long Waylon stays healthy and active through kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training. as you are putting in effort and staying consistent, there is nothing wrong with having fun.” His parents got him into kickboxing when he was little, and Waylon decided to do jiu jitsu after becoming a fan of MMA (mixed martial arts). “I was never great at team sports when I was young, and it became difficult to stay motivated just going to the gym for strength and conditioning after a while. So, having a sport that is independent like martial arts, which I was already a fan of, is a perfect fit.”
Waylon now trains in kickboxing six days a week and jiu jitsu three days a week.
He started training in kickboxing about six years ago but only got serious about competing a year ago. He had only been doing jiu jitsu for a month when his kickboxing coach recommended the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school. He is now training as much as possible there.
40 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
INSPIRING YOUNG TAHLTANS Devon Lee Nole
As his superiors recognized Devon’s diligence and work ethic, they granted him increasing roles and responsibilities. Devon’s confidence grew. He earned a range of certificates, first in Crushing, then Grinding, then the Flotation Circuit. When Devon shared his ambition and goal-setting, how he aimed to become a control room or floatation operator and to reach a Supervisor role, his superiors encouraged him. They provided mentors and a path. Five years in, Devon’s drive and promise only grows. Co-workers tell of his excellence and potential to become among the first, and perhaps the youngest, Tahltan Supervisors.
Devon’s success follows his passion for working hard and achieving goals beyond his dreams. “[I want] to never stop learning, each and every day, from Devon Lee (Nole)’s parents are Kimberley and Calvin others around me”, he shares. “There’s never enough Marion and his father is Shawn Lee. His grandparents knowledge to learn.” Devon is inspired by the lifelong are Pat and Teresa Etzerza and his great grandparents hard work of both his grandparents and parents. are Sarah and Lovman Nole. He is in the Ch’iōne clan As he watched them overcome challenges, he felt and Ts’inglt’ede (Simgaldtadta) family. His Tahltan empowered to pursue a path of hard work himself. name, Met’est’a, was given to him by his Grandma Sarah Nole. Devon is 25 years old and from the Iskut Devon faces many challenges at his current position, Band. He grew up in Telegraph Creek, graduated from including long working hours, the need for rigorous Caledonia in Terrace, and now lives in Dease Lake. organization, and a lack of knowledge. He has to learn every day and take pride in each responsibility granted to him. He has found it tough to adjust to the mining lifestyle, with long sets away from home, family and friends, three weeks on and three weeks off.
The challenges taught Devon to earn the respect of others and to respect the responsibilities they give him. He gained skills in communication, planning and leadership. He learned to recognize the knowledge around him and to acquire work skills, from those needed for hands-on tasks to equipment operation to hand-tools.
Devon’s advice for other Tahltans is: “stay strong and keep a healthy Devon was raised with strong cultural values. He spent mindset to never give up and push long periods out on the land, hunting and fishing with his forward. Learn from others around grandparents. He still enjoys these cultural activities, and the snowmobiling, camping, hiking that go with them. you. Gain experience through the He is also an avid hockey player. Devon values family and years to come, and plan ahead. culture, and spending time with family and friends. Set goals for yourself and achieve In 2015, Devon began working at Red Chris Mine. Young them through hard work and and shy, fresh out of high school, he began as a mill pursuing your self-motivation.” trainee. He worked hard, and watched other closely, learning through observation and careful attention.
41 PERSONAL PROFILES – INSPIRING YOUNG TAHLTANS
INSPIRING YOUNG TAHLTANS Shanna Creyke
In 2015, Shanna was awarded an industrial electrical apprenticeship at the Red Chris Mine site. The first year, she earned her working hours at the mine. Though the trade was challenging and brand new for her, Shanna persevered with help from her colleagues. After a year of collecting workplace hours she did her first level of coursework at TRU. The studies were even more challenging, asking more of her than anything she had pursued before. Shanna was the only woman in the program at the time, and again, she persevered. Through hard work and dedication Shanna completed the program, finishing school the same year she gave birth to her daughter.
Shanna Creyke is the daughter of Leonard and Erica Creyke and the granddaughter of John and Dina Creyke. She is in the Eth’eni family and the Ch'iōne clan. She lives in Kamloops, BC with her partner, Ian Hadden, and their beautiful daughter, Quinn.
Shanna grew up in Smithers, BC. She played many sports during the school year and worked at her family’s guide outfitting business during the hunting season. After graduating from high school, she earned her Level Three First Aid and a Certified Safety Officer In 2020, Shanna graduated as a Red Seal Industrial ticket. Shanna’s qualifications landed her positions in Electrician. The Red Seal brings great wages, job both the mining and oil and gas industries. security, and certification of her transferrable skills. She is taking this year for her newborn but plans to As Shanna gained experience in industry, she grew continue studies for a Bachelor of Technology at TRU. interested in the trades. She took an ACCUPLACER test to help her pick a career path, scoring well in all Shanna’s advice to other young Tahltans: categories. She chose to pursue where she scored highest: Electrical. She got on the waitlist for the “It is never too late to pursue a career of your Foundations of Electrical program at Thompson choice. Hard work and dedication have always Rivers University (TRU), then returned to work in the warehouse at Red Chris while she waited. At the time, worked for me, especially in challenging situations. she did not know how well things would align. Don’t be shy to ask for help when you need it, and never underestimate your own strength and abilities. Once you have chosen a career path that is right for you, with perseverance you will develop the confidence to become whatever you want.”
42 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
TNDC Update
Improving our safety Strengthening our safety culture, improving our safety performance, and ensuring everyone goes home safe is our relentless focus. Under our new HSE Manager Nayab Sultan, we are rolling out initiatives to reduce incidents, heighten risk awareness, and encourage positive behaviour.
The road to safety is a continuous journey that requires the commitment of every member of the TNDC team. Embracing the Safety First, Safety Always mindset will underpin our efforts on Building a Stronger Work Culture Together.
Developing our people We are encouraged many of our people have been obtaining certifications and training to meet industry requirements and work in our new areas of business. I thank DJ Loverin and Kevin Dennis for their dedication Clint Keso and commitment in obtaining Shiftboss Certification, CEO, TNDC and the others who are studying and working toward it. As shared during our online AGM, mentorship is vital to TNDC’s future, so we are pleased to see our experienced supervisors showing leadership in As the 2020 work season winds down, I thank all those who mentoring their crews. The seasonal work transition worked for TNDC this season and who continue to work on will enable us to re-energize our plans for training, mentoring, and developing our people, addressing our our winter projects. Our accomplishments are a credit to challenges, and adding people to fuel our growth. their efforts on the front line working with our clients. Elevating our performance Although the pandemic continued to impact business, At Red Chris, efforts have been on improving we successfully delivered on client commitments, operations and service delivery. Our construction advanced our goals to be a professional, reliable, crews completed TIA build targets and road qualified service provider and diversified our business. maintenance while our camp services team elevated It was a successful season that taught us a lot about service delivery for an expanded workforce. our strengths and areas that need improvement. Now our operations transition and attention will turn Productivity improved with the onsite engineers, to future planning to capitalize on those lessons. project managers, maintenance supervisors and safety coordinators, complemented by changes to our fleet and supply management. Our bus transportation, airline support and forestry services have been praised for their contributions to Newcrest’s operations.
Over the winter season, we will be providing road maintenance, preparing our equipment fleet for next season and planning for more opportunities. We remain grateful to Newcrest for their continued support.
43 TNDC UPDATE
Becoming a trusted service partner We provided a variety of earthworks, equipment, labour and camp services to a handful of exploration projects that went ahead within pandemic restraints. Our efforts have been on working with companies like Skeena Resources, Galore Creek and Seabridge Gold to elevate our service levels and support their project plans for next season. We will use the winter season to identify the 2021 plans for other companies and how TNDC can support them. Our goal is to become their trusted service partner.
Expanding operations and business Business opportunities have continued advancing, despite pandemic delays. The fibre optics build received a boost with federal approval and the design/build planning is moving forward, targeting a spring 2021 build. Our forestry business launched with the Red Chris contract, which funded its start up, and is planning winter timber cuts with TCG’s Lands Department. At the Dease Lake Airport, we will be expanding the support services we deliver and adding new equipment.
Discussions and assessments are progressing on several other opportunities that are protected by non-disclosure agreements.
Redefining our future TNDC marked our 35th anniversary this summer. As shared during our virtual AGM, we are on an exciting and transformational journey that is redefining TNDC’s legacy and creating new opportunities for Tahltan Members, particularly our next generation.
With the continued support and collaboration of our clients, business partners, the Tahltan leadership and membership, we are creating a bright future. I look forward to providing updates on our progress in the coming months.
44 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
TNDC PROFILES TNDC Supervisors Blaze the Trail in Shiftboss Certification
Right: TNDC construction supervisors Kevin Dennis, superintendent (left) and DJ Loverin (right), foreman have received their Shiftboss Certification.
Long time TNDC employees Dawn BC Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources (DJ) Loverin and Kevin Dennis became requires anyone supervising more than six people in an active open-pit or underground mine to have Shiftboss the first TNDC supervisors to obtain Certification. Working in partnership with Newcrest Shiftboss Certification while employed Red Chris Mine, TNDC committed to supporting its tailings impoundment area (TIA) construction and for TNDC. This important accreditation road crew supervisors in achieving the certification. is bolstering their extensive on-the-job experience, meeting industry safety “We are very happy and proud of DJ and Kevin for their dedication and hard work in achieving the Shiftboss requirements, and advancing TNDC’s Certification. By stepping up and pursuing this commitment to build a qualified certification, they are expanding their knowledge workforce. It also marks an exciting and qualifications while enhancing TNDC’s reputation as a professional, qualified service provider. Their milestone in their respective careers. success is an inspiration for their coworkers who are following in their footsteps, and their leadership in training our younger generation reinforces the importance mentorship will play in TNDC’s future,” says Clint Keso, TNDC’s CEO.
45 TNDC PROFILES – TNDC SUPERVISORS BLAZE THE TRAIL IN SHIFTBOSS CERTIFICATION
“Learning I received Shiftboss Certification was an incredible day and feeling of accomplishment. I love my job and the certification enhances my ability to work with our crew, client and contractors.” – DJ Loverin
DJ has always been a trail blazer. In 2018 she moved into the role of foreman under supervisor training and mentorship – becoming TNDC’s first female construction supervisor. She was also one of the first TNDC employees to obtain Occupational First Aid Level 3 and pioneered the path for female equipment operators. DJ has been on TNDC’s Red Chris TIA crew since construction started, but her career with TNDC spans more than 30 years. She learned how to operate heavy equipment while working as a first aid attendant out in the field. Achieving Shiftboss Certification positions her one step closer to her goal of supervisor. With Level 3 First Aid, she is also recognized as a first aid attendant for the entire mine site.
“Learning I received Shiftboss Certification was an incredible day and feeling of accomplishment. I love my job and the certification enhances my ability to work with our crew, client and contractors. I especially enjoy working with our younger generation, teaching, reinforcing a strong work ethic, and watching them grow in their abilities. Mentoring them is paying forward the support, encouragement and guidance Above: Kevin Dennis, superintendent (left), DJ Loverin, foreman (centre) I have received from so many people throughout my and Sean Holkestad, project manager (right), planning the Red Chris TIA career with TNDC. And in memory of the workers from north dam crest for TNDC's construction crew on shift cross over. TNDC’s early years who have passed, I thank them for paving my path,” DJ says. “Achieving Shiftboss Certification Kevin’s motivation was to better himself and grow his has been rewarding. It has given me career. He has operated equipment since his mid-teens, and since joining TNDC in 2012, has advanced from confidence to sit at the table with senior equipment operator to foreman, and this past our client and contractors, feeling June to superintendent. Certification builds on his knowledge and assurance in his new role, gives him as an equal with the qualifications a voice and serves as an inspiration to others. and understanding.”
“Achieving Shiftboss Certification has been rewarding. – Kevin Dennis It has given me confidence to sit at the table with our client and contractors, feeling as an equal with the qualifications and understanding. I am looking forward to continuing growing my capabilities as a superintendent and training our people. That is most rewarding. We have some talented operators, and with guidance, hard work and determination I believe they can also achieve the qualifications to grow their careers,” Kevin says.
46 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020 Industry Update
48 — Tahltan Forestry Ltd .
49 — Galore Creek Fishing Program
51 — Newcrest Red Chris Update
47 TAHLTAN FORESTRY LTD . UPDATE
TAHLTAN FORESTRY LTD. Tahltan Forestry continuing work at Red Chris and has nearly completed the Forest Stewardship Plan
Tahltan Forestry Ltd. (TFL) is a FORESTRY UPDATE joint company, owned by TNDC and TFL is very excited about the acquisition of the NorthPac Forestry Group Ltd. Tahltan Nation’s new forest license, which grants TFL was founded in late 2019, with the Tahltan Nation exclusive harvesting rights to all timber within the non-overlapping portion of Tahltan the purpose of managing all forestry Territory. TFL has been hard at work on a Forest activities in Tahltan Territory. Stewardship Plan that was advertised for public review on September 3, 2020. The public review period RED CHRIS UPDATE provides time for community members and other stakeholders to provide input on any of the proposed Shortly after the formation of Tahltan Forestry, the forest management strategies that will be utilized by company was able to respond to a request for TFL. The public review period closes on November proposals for timber clearing at Red Chris and was 2, 2020, at which time TFL will address the provided awarded a contract. Since March 2020, TFL has been recommendations in a final draft of the plan. TFL is engaged in various activities at Red Chris, including aiming to have the FSP approved by the Province prior the clearing of trees, processing of logs and hauling to the end of 2020. of firewood and merchantable timber. The first three phases of this work were performed to great success and resulted in the delivery of 40 loads of firewood to the communities. In addition, Tahltan Forestry hauled merchantable green logs off site for sale. This provided a disposal costs savings for Red Chris, reduced the fire load on site, and provided additional benefit to Tahltan Forestry – a true win-win. Tahltan Forestry is now in discussions with Red Chris about additional work through the fall of 2020 and winter 2021, including an additional 20 loads of firewood to be brought to the communities.
Following approval of the FSP, Tahltan Forestry will be working to produce its first logging plan. A core objective of Tahltan Forestry is to ensure it is harvesting in a sustainable manner and in coordination with the Tahltan Central Government Lands Department. The forestry operations will provide many benefits to the Tahltan Nation that go well beyond profits. These benefits include a steady supply of firewood, funding for youth activities, access to building materials, forestry career training, maintaining Tahltan authority of management of the land, and an ongoing database of new information to be collected on wildlife, forest health, timber types and watersheds.
48 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
GALORE CREEK FISHING PROGRAM TĀŁTĀN ŁUWE 2020 Initiative
In response to the global COVID-19 Building on the strong working relationships developed pandemic, the Galore Creek Partners with the Tahltan Nation over the years, the Galore Creek team was provided an opportunity to speak Above left: Top from left – Teck Resources Limited (Teck) and to right: Danniel Edzerza, with Tahltan Leadership (including Tahltan Central Sharon McLean, Tina Newmont Corporation (Newmont) – Government, Iskut Band and Tahltan Band) about the Van Meirlo, David Brown, Community Relief Fund and how to work together Heather Hawkins, Lando established Global Community Relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. GCMC was particularly Ball, Shenoa Asp, Danny Henyu, Andrew Reimert, Funds to support communities in the interested in understanding the concerns of the Rick McLean, Kristina regions where they operate. Together, Tahltan Leadership related to the COVID-19 pandemic Michaud (Donovan). and how best to use the relief funds to effectively Bottom from left to the companies also jointly contributed right: Harrold Dennis, respond to the needs of the communities. River Antoniak, Dan to create a GCMC pandemic response Edzerza, Christine Ball, COLLABORATION Ann Ball, Shane Michaud, initiative in Tahltan Territory. Jeramiah Etzerza. From the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Tahltan Above right: Jarred Leadership has worked hard to keep their communities sockeye salmon. safe, including discouraging travel into the Territory or between communities. One specific activity they expressed strong concern about was Tahltan living outside the Territory traveling to Telegraph Creek to participate in summer fishing activities, and the associated risk of COVID-19 transmission in an area where many Tahltan Elders reside.
The TĀŁTĀN ŁUWE initiative was established to support the Tahltan Leadership’s effort to keep Tahltan communities safe during the COVID-19 pandemic by providing salmon to Tahltan Members residing outside the area. With TCG support, GCMC
49 GALORE CREEK FISHING PROGRAM
"One of the unexpected successes of the initiative was the mentorship of Tahltan youth in fishing and fish preservation techniques by Tahltans more familiar with these activities, including Tahltan Elders, who contributed their time, experience and knowledge."
worked closely with the Tahltan Band, Tahltan Health and Tahltan Fisheries. A dedicated Tahltan team fished for salmon on the Stikine River, processed and preserved the fish, and freighted the salmon to Tahltan Members residing outside the area.
Experienced Tahltans led all activities, including fishing, cleaning, and processing, with a strong emphasis on conducting all activities safely. The involvement of Tahltan-owned businesses also contributed to local economic resilience during the pandemic. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the TĀŁTĀN ŁUWE 2020 initiative developed a COVID-19 Safety Plan and followed it diligently, including taking regular temperature checks of all participants, practicing physical distancing, and using masks when physical distancing was not possible.
OUTCOMES Above: From left to right: Andrew Reimert, The initiative succeeded in delivering canned and frozen Roxanne Creyke, fish to 250 Tahltan families residing in the communities Lorraine Callbreath, of Dease Lake, Iskut, Telegraph Creek, Good Hope Lake, Heather Hawkins.
Lower Post, Watson Lake, Whitehorse, Fort Nelson, Fort Right: Sockeye salmon St John, Smithers, Terrace and Prince George. in fish house.
Galore Creek’s financial support of the initiative also contributed to improvements to the equipment and infrastructure at the Tahltan fish camp at Glenora, including the provision of new gutting tables, pumps, generators, freezers, vacuum sealers and pressure canners. These were donated to the Tahltan Band at the end of the program for future use.
A total of 16 Tahltans were employed between mid-July and mid-August, and many others volunteered their time to the initiative. One of the unexpected successes of the initiative was the mentorship of Tahltan youth in fishing and fish preservation techniques by Tahltans more familiar with these activities, including Tahltan Elders, who contributed their time, experience and knowledge.
Tahltan Leadership remains very active in working to reduce the number of people travelling within and to Tahltan Territory, and the initiative was successful in supporting this effort.
50 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
NEWCREST RED CHRIS UPDATE Tahltan-Newcrest Partnership Tested and Strengthened under Pandemic
No one could have imagined that less than six months after The COVID-19 pandemic has given special urgency to Newcrest Mining acquired a 70% interest and operatorship our partnership with the Tahltan Nation, underscoring the company’s most important goal: the safety and of Red Chris mine, a global pandemic could cut such a wellbeing of the people, and contractors that work at its devastating path of destruction across the globe. sites and surrounding communities where they live.
As successive waves continue to disrupt the way we live To support this objective, in April Newcrest and work and exact a terrible toll on the most vulnerable established a $19 million Community Support Fund (CSF) to support a range of initiatives across all groups, the spirit of collaboration has brought together countries where Newcrest operates. Here in British communities, governments, and business. Columbia, CSF investments were initially focused on a range of rapid response activities, including: At Newcrest, health and safety has long been • Medevac helicopter support hardwired into our business and our ability to operate has always been contingent on the spirit of • Advanced care paramedic placed in Dease Lake cooperation that underpins our partnership with the providing support to Tahltan communities Tahltan Nation and Tahltan Central Government. • Ongoing medical supplies and cleaning supplies to Iskut, Dease Lake and Telegraph Creek as well Our community and government partnerships enabled us as the Kaska and Tlingit communities to deliver critical services and supplies in communities near our operations and exploration activities across • Newcrest food hampers to all households in Iskut, Papua New Guinea, Ecuador, Australia, and Canada. Dease Lake and Telegraph Creek to provide dry staples and sanitary supplies Across the world, we are known not only for our mutually • Support for the Tahltan Fish Camp beneficial community partnerships and strong safety record, but also our extensive technical capabilities in • Support for the Dease Lake Elder Meal Program exploration, deep underground mining techniques, and • Upcoming provision of games and indoor activities commitment to long-term environmental sustainability. to be distributed to every household
While the geologic and economic elements of the As the pandemic has drawn on, the CSF has expanded Red Chris operation were important factors in its focus to more medium- and long-term initiatives Newcrest’s decision to invest in British Columbia, to assist economic recovery through local business equally important were the potential linkages between diversification and entrepreneurship programs. Newcrest and the Tahltan Nation. More projects in the pipeline are aimed at building the capacity and resilience of Tahltan communities through infrastructure and IT connectivity programs, all of which are guided by regular input and guidance from the TCG and community representatives.
As Newcrest lays the groundwork for a significant expansion of its Red Chris operations over the coming years, its emphasis will remain on keeping close alignment with the Tahltan Nation through the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. To that end, Newcrest looks forward to providing regular updates on its growth strategy, employment, contracting and community relations commitments moving forward.
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FALL NEWSLETTER 2020
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