Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy Management Plan

August Mamalilikulla- Da'naxda'xw/ ‘Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em Awaetlala 2011 Nation

Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy Management Plan

Approved by:

______Harold Sewid Date Hereditary Clan Chief Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em First Nation

______Fred Glendale Date Councillor Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala First Nation

______Don Cadden Date Regional Manager, West Coast Region BC Parks

______Brian Bawtinheimer Date Director, Parks Planning and Management Branch BC Parks

Acknowledgements

Preparation of this management plan for Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy would not have been possible without the involvement of the Mamalilikulla-‘Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em and Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala First Nations. The traditional knowledge provided by the Ninogads (knowledgeable ones), Hereditary Clan Chief Harold Sewid, Hereditary Chief William Glendale, and Councillor Fred Glendale, was invaluable in developing this plan. Planning documents were jointly prepared by Scott Harris, Planner for the Nanwakolas Council, and BC Parks planning staff.

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Table of Contents

1.0 Introduction ...... 1 1.1 Management Plan Purpose ...... 1 1.2 Planning Area ...... 1 1.3 Legislative Framework ...... 3 1.4 Management Commitments ...... 4 1.5 Adjacent Land Uses and Marine Activities ...... 5 2.0 Roles and Values of the Conservancy ...... 9 2.1 Significance in the Protected Areas System ...... 9 2.2 Cultural Heritage ...... 10 2.3 Biological Diversity and Natural Environment ...... 15 2.4 Recreation ...... 22 2.5 Development or Use of Natural Resources ...... 24 3.0 Management Direction ...... 25 3.1 Vision ...... 25 3.2 Recommended Marine Boundary ...... 25 3.3 Management Objectives, Issues and Strategies ...... 26 3.4 Conservancy Zoning ...... 30 4.0 Plan Implementation ...... 34 Appendix A – Appropriate Uses Table ...... 35

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Figure 1: Conservancy Context Map ...... 2 Figure 2. Hunwadi/Ahnuhati River, Kwalate Creek and Bald Peak Map ...... 7 Figure 3. Hada (Ahta) and Kakweiken River Watersheds Map ...... 8 Figure 4. View into Hunwadi/Ahnuhati River valley...... 9 Figure 5. Lekim – the mountain slide that destroyed Kwalate Village...... 12 Figure 6. Boat nearing Twin Falls (Cascade Falls)...... 13 Figure 7. Hada Estuary, showing Hada (Ahta) river mouth on the right and Hada (Ahta) Valley Creek entering from the left...... 14 Figure 8. Cliffs on western shore of Knight Inlet opposite Bald Peak...... 18 Figure 9: Zoning Map ...... 32

Table 1. Ecosection and Biogeoclimatic Zone and Representation...... 16

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1.0 Introduction

1.1 Management Plan Purpose

This management plan sets out the long-term, strategic direction for Hunwadi/Ahnuhati- Bald Conservancy and provides guidance for how the conservancy will be managed. In 2006, the provincial government and First Nations across the province initiated a new relationship. On the central coast, a collaborative approach has been taken with regards to management planning and operation of protected areas. This management plan is the result of a collaborative planning process between the Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala First Nation, Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em First Nation and BC Parks. The management plan identifies the conservancy’s important cultural heritage, natural, and recreational values and presents a vision for the future of the conservancy. As well, the management plan:  addresses current issues affecting the long-term vision for the conservancy;  guides day-to-day management for the protection of identified cultural heritage and natural values;  identifies appropriate types of recreational activities;  identifies zones; and,  provides management direction related to appropriate uses of the conservancy’s natural resources.

1.2 Planning Area

Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald conservancy protects approximately 55, 423 hectares of land in three watersheds (Ahnuhati, Kwalate and Ahta, or Hada) 1 and the mid-upper reaches of a fourth watershed (Kakweiken) between Knight Inlet and Kingcome Inlet in the southern central coast of British Columbia (Figure 1). This management plan also recommends the addition of approximately 80 ha of marine foreshore in Bond Sound to the conservancy (see Section 3.2 and Figure 9). The conservancy is located approximately 100 km east of Port Hardy, 80 km north of Campbell River and 200 km northwest of Vancouver.

1 The gazetted name for this place is the Ahta River. However, the English pronunciation of the word “Ahta” has an inappropriate meaning in the Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em First Nation’s language. The correct place name is “Hada”, which refers to a place of plentiful food. For the remainder of this management plan, the place name Hada will be used alongside Ahta.

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Figure 1: Conservancy Context Map

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The conservancy is within the traditional territories of the Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala, Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em, and other First Nations of the area. The Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala First Nation’s traditional territory includes the Ahnuhati River and Kwalate Creek watersheds on the western side of Knight Inlet, as well as Bald Peak on the eastern side of Knight Inlet. The Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala First Nation is negotiating a Comprehensive Treaty with the governments of Canada and British Columbia. This Treaty will establish lands (Treaty Settlement Lands or TSL) over which the Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala First Nation will have jurisdiction. The First Nation has identified Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy in its Treaty Settlement Lands. However, the final shape and area of the TSL remains to be determined through the treaty negotiation process. The Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em First Nation’s traditional territory includes the Hada (Ahta) and Kakweiken River watersheds in the western portion of the conservancy. The Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em First Nation is not participating in the treaty process at the present time.

1.3 Legislative Framework

Conservancy Establishment Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy was originally established on July 14, 2006 pursuant to the Park (Conservancy Enabling) Amendment Act, 2006. The conservancy is included in Schedule E of the Protected Areas of British Columbia Act and is administered under the Park Act. At the time of establishment, the conservancy included two parcels of land (Site 1 and Site 2) totalling approximately 34,532 ha. Site 1 encompassed the Ahnuhati and Kwalate watersheds on the western side of Knight Inlet, while Site 2 included Glacier Peak and Bald Peak on the eastern side of the Inlet. The conservancy was expanded on June 27, 2008, pursuant to the Protected Areas of British Columbia (Conservancies and Parks) Act, 2008. This amendment enlarged Site 1 to include the upper sections of the Kakweiken watershed, as well as drainages emptying into Bond Sound, resulting in a total land area of approximately 55,423 ha.

Purpose of Conservancies Conservancies are set aside for four main purposes: a. The protection and maintenance of their biological diversity and natural environments; b. The preservation and maintenance of social, ceremonial and cultural uses of first nations; c. The protection and maintenance of their recreation values; d. To ensure that development or use of their natural resources occurs in a sustainable manner consistent with the purposes of paragraphs (a), (b) and(c). Section 8 of the Park Act directs that any interest in land in a conservancy must be authorized by a park use permit. Section 9 directs that most uses of a natural resource in a

Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy Management Plan - Draft August 2011 3 conservancy must be authorized by a park use permit. A park use permit can only be issued if the use or activity will not hinder, restrict, prevent or inhibit the development or use of the conservancy in accordance with the four abovementioned reasons for setting aside a conservancy. The Park Act further states that a park use permit must not be issued to authorize commercial logging, mining, or hydro electric power generation, other than local run-of-the- river projects. "Local run-of-the-river projects" in relation to a conservancy, means run-of- the-river projects supplying power for use (a) in the conservancy, or (b) by communities, including first nation communities, that do not otherwise have access to hydro electric power.

1.4 Management Commitments

Collaborative Management Agreements Collaborative management agreements between BC Parks and the Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala First Nation, and between BC Parks and the Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em First Nation, outline the relationship that the First Nations and the province have in the planning and management of protected areas within the traditional territories of the two First Nations. The collaborative management agreements commit the parties to plan, manage and use these protected areas in a manner that:  Recognizes and affirms aboriginal rights and provides the First Nation with continued access to land and resources necessary to exercise these rights, subject to measures necessary for conservation and public safety;  Protects natural, cultural and recreational values for future generations;  Provides the First Nation with enhanced access to economic opportunities in the protected areas that are compatible with the protection of natural, cultural and recreational values;  Integrates ecosystem-based science and traditional ecological knowledge;  Builds capacity and provides opportunities for the First Nation to be involved in the planning, management and use of the protected areas;  Promotes communication between BC Parks and the First Nation, and;  Makes the protected areas available for the use, recreation and enjoyment of all British Columbians.

Land Use Planning Commitments In the 2006 Land Use Planning Agreement-in-Principle between the province and the First Nations of the southern central coast, the parties agreed to the primary roles for Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy: cultural heritage use, habitat conservation/protection and ecosystem representation. The agreement-in-principle also lists recreation as a role for the conservancy, but indicates that this role is limited by the conservancy’s primary roles. At the time that the central coast conservancies were announced, the Minister of Environment also made a commitment that existing, tenured uses would continue in these conservancies.

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Previously, the Central Coast Land and Resource Management Plan (CCLRMP, 2004) identified this area for protection and recommended that the principles of ecosystem based management (EBM) be applied to land management throughout the central coast, including conservancies. The two overarching goals of EBM are to: 1) maintain the ecological integrity of terrestrial, marine and freshwater ecosystems, and; 2) achieve high levels of human well being. The CCLRMP recommended that the primary role for Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy would be to protect a largely intact Grizzly Bear, salmon and old-growth ecosystem, and to capture representative watersheds in the Central Pacific Ranges Ecosection.2 Providing opportunities for remote, backcountry tourism and recreation is an additional, secondary role listed in the CCLRMP. Knight Inlet was also included within a marine planning unit in the North Island Straits Coastal Plan (NISCP), which recommended that activities in the Inlet be managed to protect sensitive First Nations cultural sites and to maintain opportunities for existing uses, while minimizing impacts to salmon migration. 3 In this management plan, the roles for Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy have been adopted from the more recent agreement-in-principle, with consideration given to the recommendations in the Central Coast Land and Resource Management Plan and North Island Straits Coastal Plan.

1.5 Adjacent Land Uses and Marine Activities

Several parcels of land are surrounded by, but excluded from, the conservancy. These include the Ahnuhati Indian Reserve (IR No. 6) in the Ahnuhati River valley on Knight Inlet, and the Ahta Indian Reserve (IR No. 3) in the Hada (Ahta) Estuary on Bond Sound, as well as the lands formerly subject to Timber Licences TL7848P and TL6465P along the lower reaches of the Ahnuhati River (extending approximately 4 km upstream of the mouth) (Figure 2 and Figure 3). To the north of Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy, snowfields lead toward the Tumult, Silverthrone, Kingcome and Klinaklini Glaciers. These glacial fields feed the Kingcome River, which forms the next major watershed to the west of the conservancy, as well as the Sim River watershed to the north of the conservancy, flowing into Knight Inlet. To the south, the conservancy is bordered by the lower extent of the Kakweiken River drainage, which empties into Thompson Sound, as well as a number of creeks flowing into Knight Inlet. These adjacent lands are within Tree Farm Licence (TFL) 45 and the Kingcome Timber Supply Area (TSA).

2 At the time that the CCLRMP Protected Area Strategy Report was completed, this area was within the Northern Pacific Ranges Ecosection. In 2002, the southern portion was redefined as the Central Pacific Ranges Ecosection. 3 The Hada (Ahta) estuary was not included in the North Island Straits Plan.

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Forestry is a historic and ongoing land use in TFL 45 and the Kingcome TSA, with Knight Inlet serving as a marine transportation corridor for log barging and towing. There is a Biodiversity, Mining and Tourism Area (BMTA) at Adeane Point on the opposite shore of Knight Inlet from the mouth of Kwalate Creek (Figure 1). BMTAs are one of the three types of land use zones established under the North and Central Coast Land Use Decision (2006). They are situated adjacent to protected areas like Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy to contribute to conservation of species and ecosystems in these areas. Commercial timber harvesting and commercial hydro-electric projects are prohibited within BMTAs. Other nearby protected areas include Wahkash Point Conservancy, located approximately 12 km northward toward the head of Knight Inlet; Dzawadi/Klinaklini Estuary Conservancy, located at the head of Knight Inlet; and Kingcome River/Atlatzi River Ecological Reserve, located to the west of the conservancy at the juncture of the Kingcome and Atlatzi Rivers (Figure 1). Marine activities in Knight Inlet include commercial salmon troll, gillnet, and seine fisheries, hook and line ground fisheries, crab and prawn fisheries, as well as sport salmon and ground fisheries. Recreational prawn and shrimp fisheries also occur in Bond Sound. There are two safe anchorages near Ahnuhati Point suitable for temporary or emergency use (Figure 2). In addition, there is a federal Rockfish Conservation Area (RCA) on the western side of Bond Sound (Figure 3).4

4 Rockfish Conservation Areas prohibit recreational and commercial rockfish harvesting to support the recovery of populations of inshore rockfish found within British Columbia’s marine waters. Other recreational and commercial fishing restrictions also apply. Information on Rockfish Conservation Areas (RCAs) is available on the Fisheries and Oceans Canada RCA web page at http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/maps-cartes/rca- acs/index-eng.htm

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Figure 2. Hunwadi/Ahnuhati River, Kwalate Creek and Bald Peak Map Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy Management Plan - Draft August 2011 7

Figure 3. Hada (Ahta) and Kakweiken River Watersheds Map

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2.0 Roles and Values of the Conservancy

Figure 4. View into Hunwadi/Ahnuhati River valley.

2.1 Significance in the Protected Areas System

The primary roles of Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy are cultural heritage use, habitat conservation/protection and ecosystem representation. Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy is significant in the protected areas system because it:  Protects culturally significant sites of the Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala, Mamalilikulla- ‘Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em and other First Nations of the area, including former year-round village sites, fishing stations, hunting and trapping grounds, important harvesting areas for culinary and medicinal plants, and archaeological features such as pictographs and petroglyphs;  Protects a largely intact, multi-watershed, old-growth-salmon-grizzly bear ecosystem with the highest fisheries and wildlife values of any ecosystem on the mainland coast of British Columbia;  Is the largest protected area in the Central Pacific Ranges Ecosection (55,423 ha), contributing significantly to representation of three biogeoclimatic variants within this Ecosection (CWHvm1, CWHvm2 and MHmm1).

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2.2 Cultural Heritage

Values

First Nations Traditional Territories Hunwadi/Ahnuhati River, Kwalate Creek and Bald Peak, in the eastern portion of the conservancy, fall within Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala traditional territory. The Da'naxda'xw and Awaetlala were formerly two separate, but closely related, Nations who were the stewards of upper Knight Inlet. The Da'naxda'xw territory was at the head of Knight Inlet, while the Awaetlala territotory encompassed the southern reaches of the inlet, including Kwatsi and the area around Glendale Cove. The Hada (Ahta) and Kakweiken River watersheds in the western portion of the conservancy fall within Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em traditional territory. The Mamalilikulla- Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em First Nation is comprised of two amalgamated First Nations, the Mamalilikulla and the Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em. The Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em First Nation’s traditional territory includes the Hada (Ahta) River and Kakweiken River watersheds, as well as Gilford Island and the northern islands in the Broughton Archipelago. The Mamalilikulla First Nation’s traditional territory includes the islands south of Gilford Island, including Village and Swanson Islands at the southern end of the Broughton Archipelago. The cultural heritage values in each of the four watersheds in the conservancy, as well as Bald Peak, are described in the following paragraphs.

Hunwadi/Ahnuhati River The cultural values in the Hunwadi/Ahnuhati River watershed are highly significant to the Da'naxda'xw/Awaetlala First Nation. The Hunwadi/Ahunhati River watershed is noted for its abundance of game, large cedar trees, berries and fish. Traditionally, families followed the annual cycle in availability of game, plants, and fish, establishing seasonal camps to process foods and gather materials, such as cedar bark and medicinal plants. Plants and medicines were gathered in the spring, while berries and seafood were harvested in the summer. The annual salmon harvest in the late summer and fall provided an important winter food supply. Fishing stations around the mouth of the Hunwadi/Ahunhati River and various hunting grounds further up the valley sustained the community. Black- tailed Deer and Mountain Goat were hunted, and the prized goat skins were traded with other First Nations. Grizzly Bear, Cougar and Grey Wolf populations also inhabited the valley. There is abundant evidence of the rich history of the Da'naxda'xw/Awaetlala First Nation in this area. The archaeological record, which includes pictographs, petroglyphs, fishing weirs, shell middens and other sites, is complemented by Da'naxda'xw/Awaetlala traditional knowledge of the many named gathering, hunting and trapping areas within this expansive watershed. There are also Da'naxda'xw/Awaetlala origin legends that tell of supernatural beings taking on human form, populating the area, and assuming the responsibility to be stewards of the resources. Ethnographers Curtis, and later Boas, documented two of these places of origin in the Hunwadi/Ahunhati River watershed, one at the mouth of the

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Hunwadi/Ahnuhati River, and a second in the upper reaches of the Hunwadi/Ahnuhati River valley. Ahnuhati Indian Reserve No. 6, at the mouth of the Hunwadi River, is one of many former year-round village sites along the shoreline of Knight Inlet. Because only this village site became an Indian Reserve, there are many other village sites and cultural features that have not received the same degree of protection that an Indian Reserve provides. Desecration and theft has been a problem at these sites in the past, causing great concern to members of the First Nation.

Kwalate Creek Kwalate Creek was similar to the Hunwadi/Ahunhati River valley in terms of the presence of Da'naxda'xw/Awaetlala resource harvesting sites such as fishing stations, hunting and trapping areas, and gathering sites for plants, berries and medicines. At one time, there was a large, thriving village of about one hundred people at the mouth of Kwalate Creek. However, this community came to a sudden and catastrophic end. Facing Kwalate village from the other side of Knight Inlet (opposite the present-day conservancy) rose a precipitous mountain, Lekim, towering more than 1,000 metres above the water. It is estimated that in the late 1500s, an 840 metre high portion of Lekim gave way and three to four million cubic metres of rock slid into the inlet. The ensuing tsunami that swept across the four kilometre width of the inlet completely destroyed the village at Kwalate. Oral history recounts that all the inhabitants perished at Kwalate. Although the remaining Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala people did not rebuild a permanent village, families did re-establish seasonal fishing and hunting camps at the former village site and upstream in the valley. An archaeological study of Kwalate uncovered evidence of this former village site, including two house platforms, a shell midden and rock shelter features.5 Culturally modified trees, including aboriginally logged cedar stumps and bark-stripped cedars, were also documented. As well, the study uncovered remains of the following species: pacific salmon, Eulachon, Pacific Herring, Sablefish, Black-tailed Deer, North American Porcupine, Harbour Seal, sand lance, greenling, and dog. In addition, a shell midden showed evidence of abundant mussel shells and occasional Butter Clam and Littleneck Clam shells. Radiocarbon dating conducted as part of this study confirmed that the site had been abandoned in the late 1500s.

5 McLaren, D., Bornhold, B., Harper, J. 2005. Archaeological and Oral Historical Evidence of an Ancient Tsunami Event at Kwalate, Knight Inlet. Report submitted to the Da’naxda’xw First Nation and British Columbia Archaeological Branch, January, 2005.

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Figure 5. Lekim – the mountain slide that destroyed Kwalate Village.

Bald Peak On the eastern side of Knight Inlet is magnificent Bald Peak. Twin Falls (or Cascade Falls) drop directly into the inlet from the cliffs that form the base of Bald Peak. These falls are a spiritual and ceremonial location for the Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala people, as well as a significant landmark on the journey up Knight Inlet. Visitors travelling this route bathe themselves at Twin Falls in an ancient cleansing and purification ceremony. Although the slopes leading to Bald Peak are extremely steep, hunters would also travel up to the saddle below the peak to hunt Mountain Goat and Black-tailed Deer, to harvest yellow cedar, and to collect medicines.

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Figure 6. Boat nearing Twin Falls (Cascade Falls).

Hada (Ahta) Estuary The mouth of the Hada (Ahta) River on Bond Sound is a special place for the Mamalilikulla- Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em First Nation (Figure 7). The estuary is a former village site, Hada, as well as the current site of Indian Reserve No.3 (Ahta). Hada means “place of plenty”. The estuary was a key area for gathering roots in the spring, collecting berries in the summer, and catching salmon in the fall. Grizzly Bears frequented the estuary and were a common sight in the spring and fall for the families that resided at Hada. The estuary is also a valuable area for hunting waterfowl. The root vegetable, texwsús, or springbank clover, was particularly abundant at Hada. This unique, spicy root was collected by the Elders in what is known as the root garden, and was prized for the taste it added to various foods. The root was harvested selectively at the appropriate time during the spring. Only a certain number would be taken, and the rest replanted for harvest in subsequent years. This valued root was stored and utilized at ceremonies, or traded with other First Nations for items such as soapberry. The Mamalilikulla, ‘Namgis and other First Nations would all come to Hada to trade for clover roots with the ‘Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em.6

6 Alfred, A. 2004. Paddling to Where I Stand: Agnes Alfred, Qwiqwasutinuxw Noblewoman. Translated by Daisy Sewid-Smith. Edited and annotated by Martine J. Reid. UBC Press, Vancouver, BC.

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Figure 7. Hada Estuary, showing Hada (Ahta) river mouth on the right and Hada (Ahta) Valley Creek entering from the left.

Marine resources, such as ground fish, eel grass, and shellfish were also harvested in the estuary and in Bond Sound. The intertidal zone at Hada was the site of a clam garden, or loxwiwe (place of rolling rocks together). Clam gardens were formed by rolling rocks to the lowest tide mark to create terraces. These terraces allowed silt and sand to build up and form a garden-like area that provided ideal clam habitat. Several species of shellfish thrived in the clam gardens, including Butter Clams, Littleneck Clams and cockles. The old-growth forest ecosystem in the Hada River valley provided for many of the First Nation’s needs. Camps were established up the river valley for hunting and trapping. Wildlife, such as Black-tailed Deer, were hunted, and fur bearers such as American Mink and American Marten were trapped during the late fall and early winter when the coats were at their best. The valley has large cedar trees, from which cedar bark and wood were harvested for cultural purposes. Culturally modified trees identifying travel routes have also been found in the more remote regions of the watershed.

Kakweiken Watershed In the upper reaches of the Kakweiken watershed, seasonal camps were established for hunting and trapping. Large old-growth trees, Grizzly Bears and other wildlife species were abundant in this area.

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Although only the upper Kakweiken River watershed is within the conservancy, the entire valley was important for salmon, hunting, trapping and timber. There is a former village site at the mouth of the Kakweiken River where Kakweken Indian Reserve No. 4 is now located. This village site is a culturally significant location, being part of the Mamalilikulla- Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em First Nation’s Gilgalis.7

Role Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy makes an important contribution to the protection of cultural heritage values, including culturally significant sites and traditional uses in the four watersheds represented in the conservancy. The conservancy also plays a role in providing opportunities for First Nations’ social, ceremonial, and cultural uses, as well as educational and cultural interpretation activities to teach future generations and the public about Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala and Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em traditional knowledge and practices.

2.3 Biological Diversity and Natural Environment

Values Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy makes a significant contribution to the protection of biodiversity values. The conservancy protects a large contiguous landscape comprised of three major, undeveloped coastal watersheds and the upper reaches of a fourth watershed on British Columbia’s southern central coast. The conservancy and adjacent foreshore are important for the protection of:  Old-growth, coastal temperate rainforest;  Major coastal rivers and estuaries;  Salmon, Steelhead, Cutthroat Trout and Dolly Varden Char;  Grizzly Bears;  Mountain Goat and Black-tailed Deer winter habitat, and;  High value Marbled Murrelet habitat and suitable Northern Goshawk nesting habitat.

Ecosystem Representation Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy plays a critical role in the representation of a multi- watershed old-growth forest ecosystem in the Central Pacific Ranges (CPR) terrestrial Ecosection. As the largest protected area in the CPR Ecosection, Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy makes a significant contribution to representation of this ecosection (54,737 ha) and three biogeoclimatic variants within it (Table 1).

7 This Gilgalis refers to the legend of the first man (Chief Tseqamay) who survived and walked the earth after the flood in Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em oral tradition. Chief Tseqamay had four sons, one of whom was sent by Chief Tseqamay to settle in Thompson Sound at the mouth of the Kakweiken River (Wotwo).

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The conservancy is typical of the CPR Ecosection, which is characterized by rugged, high, ice- capped mountains, extensive rivers and deep fjords. Within this ecosection, Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy also fills gaps in the representation of high value salmonid streams, floodplains, south-facing old growth forests, lakes, inlets, large mammal predator-prey systems, and large coastal shoreline conifers. The lower reaches of the Hada (Ahta) River valley (618 ha) are in the Outer Fjordland (OUF) terrestrial Ecosection. The OUF Ecosection is an area of rugged, low relief, consisting of inlets, sounds, islands and peninsulas, east of Johnstone Strait and Seymour Narrows. The foreshore adjacent to the conservancy in Bond Sound, including the Hada (Ahta) Estuary, is within the Johnstone Strait (JOS) marine Ecosection. With the recommended foreshore addition, the conservancy would fill gaps in the representation of British Columbia’s coastal estuaries and make a minor contribution to representation of the Johnstone Strait marine Ecosection (80 ha) in the provincial protected areas system. British Columbia’s biogeoclimatic ecosystem classification (BEC) system divides the province’s terrestrial ecosystems into zones where specific types of soils, plant and animal communities develop. The conservancy protects 13,175 ha of the Coastal Western Hemlock submontane very wet maritime (CWHvm1) biogeoclimatic variant; 15,219 ha of the Coastal Western Hemlock montane very wet maritime (CWHvm2) biogeoclimatic variant; 15,656 ha of the Mountain Hemlock windward moist maritime (MHmm1) biogeoclimatic variant, and; 10,869 ha of the Coastal Mountain-heather Alpine undifferentiated parkland (CMAunp) biogeoclimatic variant. The conservancy makes a major contribution to the representation of three biogeoclimatic variants within the Central Pacific Ranges Ecosection, representing 46.1% of the CPR/CWHvm1 combination, 46.5% of the CPR/CWHvm2 combination and 52.9% of the CPR/MHmm1 combination within the provincial protected areas system (Table 1).

Table 1. Ecosection and Biogeoclimatic Zone and Representation.

Ecosection/ Total Area of Total Area of Percent of Total Area of Percent of Biogeoclimatic Ecosection/BEC Ecosection/BEC Ecosection/BEC Ecosection/BEC Province-wide (BEC) Variant Variant Variant Variant Variant Protection of Combination Combination or Combination or Combination or Combination or Ecosection/BEC or Marine Marine Marine Marine Marine Variant Ecosection Ecosection in Ecosection in Ecosection that Ecosection in the Combination or B.C. (ha) Protected Areas is Protected Conservancy (ha) Marine (ha) Ecosection in this Conservancy

CPR/CWHvm1 242,971 27,261 11.2 12,557 46.1

CPR/CWHvm2 248,038 32,758 13.2 15,219 46.5

CPR/MHmm1 245,485 29,606 12.1 15,656 52.9

CPR/CMAunp 850,470 40,349 4.7 10,869 27.0

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Ecosection/ Total Area of Total Area of Percent of Total Area of Percent of Biogeoclimatic Ecosection/BEC Ecosection/BEC Ecosection/BEC Ecosection/BEC Province-wide (BEC) Variant Variant Variant Variant Variant Protection of Combination Combination or Combination or Combination or Combination or Ecosection/BEC or Marine Marine Marine Marine Marine Variant Ecosection Ecosection in Ecosection in Ecosection that Ecosection in the Combination or B.C. (ha) Protected Areas is Protected Conservancy (ha) Marine (ha) Ecosection in this Conservancy

OUF/CWHvm1 244,626 8,796 3.6 618 7.0

OUF/CWHvm2 45,853 1,195 2.6 <0.1 <0.1

JOS/ Marine 241,826 10,221 4.2% 80* 0.8* Foreshore*

*Recommended marine addition not yet included in the conservancy

Fish Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy protects three important salmon producing rivers in their entirety, as well as the upper reaches of a fourth. The Ahnuhati River, Hada (Ahta) River and Kakweiken River support all species of pacific salmon, including relatively larger runs of Pink and Chum, as well as smaller numbers of Coho and Chinook, and traces of Sockeye. Salmon values in the Hada (Ahta) River are concentrated within the first kilometer upstream of the mouth below the waterfalls that give the river its local name of “Waterfall Creek” (Figure 7). A creek referred to as Hada (Ahta) Valley Creek, which also enters Bond Sound at the estuary, provides further habitat for Chum, Coho and Pink salmon. Salmon habitat values extend into the upper reaches of the Kakweiken and Ahnuhati Rivers. Kwalate Creek also provides excellent spawning and rearing habitat for Pink, Coho, Chum and Chinook salmon for the first 12 km upstream of the mouth. In addition to their high salmon conservation values, all four river systems support Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Dolly Varden Char. Cutthroat Trout and Dolly Varden Char are both provincially blue-listed species.8 A number of freshwater lakes at the headwaters of the rivers in the conservancy provide valuable fish habitat as well. Kakweiken Lake, in particular, supports Cutthroat and Rainbow Trout, as well as Coho Salmon, Pink Salmon and Dolly Varden Char. Steelhead is present in all four river systems in the conservancy. The Ahnuhati and Kakweiken Rivers are high priority watersheds for recovery of Steelhead populations. Both

8 Species and ecological communities are assigned to the red or blue list on the basis of the provincial Conservation Status Rank (SRANK) assigned by the British Columbia Conservation Data Centre. The red list includes species/ecological communities that are extirpated, endangered or threatened. The blue list contains species/ecological communities that are considered to be of special concern.

Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy Management Plan - Draft August 2011 17 support wild stocks of winter run Steelhead that are in decline. The status of the Ahnuhati River stock is identified as a Conservation Concern and the status of the Kakweiken River stock is identified as Special Concern (possibly Extreme Conservation Concern).9 The conservancy protects freshwater and riparian habitats that support the recovery of Steelhead populations.

Figure 8. Cliffs on western shore of Knight Inlet opposite Bald Peak.

Grizzly Bears Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy was identified as the number one priority area for protection of Grizzly Bears in the Central Coast Land and Resource Management Plan. Grizzly Bears are a provincially blue-listed species and a focal species in ecosystem based management on the central coast. The conservancy’s largely intact and contiguous coastal watersheds contribute considerably to Grizzly Bear habitat connectivity between Knight and Kingcome Inlets. Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy protects numerous patches of Class 1 (high value) and Class 2 (moderately high value) Grizzly Bear habitat, situated primarily within the

9 A.F. Lill and Associates Ltd. (with staff assistance from the British Columbia Ministry of Water, Land, and Air Protection). 2002. Georgia Basin Steelhead Recovery Action Plan. Appendix 1. Watershed Summaries. Prepared for the Pacific Salmon Foundation. Available at http://www.bccf.com/steelhead/pdf/Region1tables092702.pdf

Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy Management Plan - Draft August 2011 18 conservancy’s major river valleys. These habitat patches reflect critical spring, summer, and fall feeding areas for Grizzly Bears, as well as security habitats for bedding and travel.10 In the spring and early summer, Grizzly Bears forage on sedges, grasses and forbs in the estuaries and wetlands associated with these major rivers. The Ahta Estuary, in particular, offers excellent spring foraging opportunities for Grizzly Bears. In the fall, Grizzly Bears feed on spawning salmon. Grizzly Bears also play a key role in sustaining ecological productivity in the conservancy by carrying salmon carcasses upland from the rivers and estuaries, bringing an influx of nutrients into the riparian forests. In addition to spring, summer and fall feeding habitats, the conservancy protects habitat elements suitable for winter denning, including higher elevation slopes and large, old trees. With the exception of Bald Peak, Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy is entirely within the Ahnuhati Grizzly Bear Management Area (GBMA), established in 2009.11 The Ahnuhati GBMA also extends into the watersheds to the south of the conservancy toward Tribune Channel and the lower reaches of Knight Inlet (Figure 1). One of the management objectives for the GBMA is to sustain a naturally regulated Grizzly Bear population to provide a benchmark for comparison with other areas on the coast.12 Hunting of Grizzly Bears is prohibited within the Ahnuhati GBMA.

Ungulates The conservancy is important for the protection of Mountain Goats and Black-tailed Deer, including valuable winter range for both species. In winter, Mountain Goats seek protected ledges in steep rocky areas that provide escape terrain and a forage supply. The south- facing, old growth forested slopes in Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy offer important winter habitat for Mountain Goats.13 Shrubs, conifers, lichens and mosses provide a critical winter forage supply, in contrast to a summer diet of forbs, sedges, rushes, alpine and subalpine grasses found at higher elevations. A number of areas within the conservancy were designated as Mountain Goat Ungulate Winter Range (u-1-008 and u-1-011) prior to the creation of the conservancy. An Ungulate Winter Range (UWR) is defined as an area that contains habitat that is necessary to meet the

10 British Columbia Ministry of Environment. 2008. Grizzly Bear Habitat Mapping for Parks and Conservancies for the North and Central Coast. Available at: http://archive.ilmb.gov.bc.ca/slrp/lrmp/nanaimo/cencoast/ebmwg_docs/e102a_grizzly_report.pdf 11 British Columbia Ministry of Environment. 2008. Ahnuhati Grizzly Bear No Hunting Area [map]. Available at http://archive.ilmb.gov.bc.ca/slrp/lrmp/nanaimo/central_north_coast/docs/GBNHA%20Ahnuhati.pdf 12 Land Use Planning Agreement-in-Principle between the KNT First Nations and the Province of British Columbia. March 27, 2006. 13 Mountain goats have been shown to select south-facing slopes in the Coastal Western Hemlock Montane Very Wet Maritime (CWHvm2) or Mountain Hemlock Windward Moist Maritime (MHmm1) subzone variants in forests greater than 250 years of age with moderate forest cover and crown closure and shrub cover 1-2 m in height. See Taylor, S. and K. Brunt. 2007. Winter habitat use by mountain goats in the Kingcome River drainage of coastal British Columbia. BC Journal of Ecosystems and Management 8(1):32–49. url: http://www.forrex.org/publications/jem/ISS39/vol8_no1_art3.pdf

Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy Management Plan - Draft August 2011 19 winter habitat requirements of an ungulate species. These UWRs have now been superseded by the conservancy designation. The patches formerly designated as mountain goat UWR are positioned primarily on mid to higher elevation south facing slopes in the conservancy. The habitat values represented in these former UWRs are now protected by the conservancy. In addition to former mountain goat UWR, the conservancy also includes a patch of former Black-tailed Deer winter range (179 ha) bordering Knight Inlet, upslope from Kwalate Creek. Black-tailed Deer require thermal cover and accessibility of shrubs above snow for forage in winter. Well-established shrub communities found in old-growth forest are an important element of Black-tailed Deer winter range. The conservancy continues to protect the forest values and habitats in these former Mountain Goat and Black-tailed Deer Ungulate Winter Ranges.

Birds The river valleys in Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy protect habitat for Marbled Murrelet and Northern Goshawk, two focal species in ecosystem based management in the central coast. Marbled Murrelet is a provincially blue-listed species and Northern Goshawk is a red-listed species. The Hada (Ahta) River, Kwalate Creek, Kakweiken River, and Ahnuhati River valleys contain numerous patches of moderate, high and very high value Marbled Murrelet nesting habitat, 14 as well as suitable Northern Goshawk nesting habitat.15 There is also suitable Northern Goshawk habitat, and high and moderate value Marbled Murrelet habitat adjacent to Cascade Creek, above the waterfalls on the eastern side of Knight Inlet. In addition, there is suitable Northern Goshawk nesting habitat at Kwalate Point and along the extent of the western shoreline of Knight Inlet (with the exception of the previously logged blocks excluded from the conservancy). Marbled Murrelets nest predominantly on larger diameter (15-75 cm), moss-covered branches of old-growth coniferous trees. Northern Goshawks nest and forage in mature and old-growth forest stands with a closed canopy and open understory. The estuaries and associated wetlands at the mouths of Kwalate Creek and the Hada (Ahta) River also provide important habitats for coastal waterfowl and shorebirds. Goldeneyes and dabbling ducks have been observed in moderate numbers in the Hada (Ahta) Estuary and

14 Very High = Key habitat features present in abundance; includes the best habitat in the specified geographic area. High = Key habitat features common and widespread. Moderate = Key habitat features present but patchy. Habitat ranking scheme based on air photo interpreted attributes. 15 Suitable goshawk nesting areas have mature, old-growth stand structure, high canopy closure and an open understory (sub-canopy flyways). Suitable habitat was identified using a habitat suitability model, following methods outlined in: Mahon, T. McClaren, E., and F. Doyle. 2008. Parameterization of the Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis laingi) Habitat Model for Coastal British Columbia. Nesting and Foraging Habitat Suitability Models and Territory Analysis Model. Model results are described in Smith, J., and G. Sutherland. 2008. Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis laingi) Habitat and Territory Models. Modelling Methodology and Implementation Scenario Results for Coastal British Columbia. Prepared for the Northern Goshawk Habitat Recovery Implementation Group.

Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy Management Plan - Draft August 2011 20 adjacent Bond Sound. Observations of Marbled Murrelets on the Knight Inlet shoreline have also been documented through the Canadian Wildlife Service Coastal Waterbird Inventory.16

Estuarine and Marine Ecological Values The conservancy and recommended foreshore addition protect the Hada (Ahta) River Estuary in its entirety, as well as the upland portion of the Kwalate Creek Estuary. Estuaries are nutrient rich environments that support complex food chains and habitats for a variety of fish and wildlife species. Approximately 80% of coastal wildlife species use estuaries at some point in their life cycles. Estuaries are also naturally rare ecosystems, comprising less than 3% of British Columbia’s coastline. There are many other marine habitats and species adjacent to the conservancy in Knight Inlet. In the summer and fall, both sides of Knight Inlet are resting and holding areas for Chinook, Coho, Chum and Pink Salmon travelling to spawn in the Klinaklini and Franklin Rivers at the head of Knight Inlet. Bond Sound is also a holding area for salmon. As well, there are Pacific Herring spawning grounds at Ahnuhati Point on the west side of Knight Inlet and at Glacier Bay on the east side of the Inlet. Adult Eulachon returning to spawn in the Klinaklini and Franklin Rivers at the head of Knight Inlet, and juveniles migrating to the ocean, are also present in the conservancy foreshore. Humpback Whales and Pacific White- sided Dolphins reside in Knight Inlet, and Killer Whales (red-listed) use the Inlet as a summer resting and feeding area. Humpback Whales and Harbour Porpoises are also present in Bond Sound.

Climate Change Climate Change is expected to result in changes to species composition and ecosystem functioning across the landscape. Other anticipated changes include increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events, as well as sea level rise due to melting ice and thermal expansion of warming ocean waters. The Hada (Ahta) and Kwalate Creek estuaries in Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy are particularly sensitive to sea level rise. The rivers in the conservancy may also experience impacts to water quality and availability due to changes in the timing, intensity and duration of precipitation and snowmelt events, as well as glacial melting. Protected areas systems have a role in mitigating the impacts of climate change by naturally storing carbon. They can also play a part in helping the diverse organisms in British Columbia adapt to inevitable changes, by providing habitat for species that migrate when conditions become unfavourable in their existing habitats and creating a linked network of protected areas across the landscape. Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy contributes to the role of the protected areas system as a whole in mitigating the impacts of climate change and aiding adaptation to future conditions. Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy’s relatively large size, topographic complexity and inclusion of multiple, contiguous watersheds may contribute to the resilience of this conservancy to the impacts of climate change.

16 Canadian Wildlife Service. British Columbia Marine Bird Areas of Interest Database. May 2007.

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Role Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy plays a critical role in the representation of a large, complex, multi-watershed old-growth forest ecosystem in the Central Pacific Ranges (CPR) Ecosection, including major coastal rivers and estuaries. It contributes to landscape connectivity between Knight Inlet and Bond Sound, protecting a wide range of habitats from headwaters to estuary. The conservancy and recommended foreshore addition also play an important role in the conservation and protection of fish and wildlife habitats and species, including: salmon, Steelhead, Cutthroat Trout and Dolly Varden Char, Grizzly Bears, Mountain Goat and Black-tailed Deer winter habitat, high value Marbled Murrelet and Northern Goshawk habitat, as well as estuarine and marine species and habitats.

2.4 Recreation

Values Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy provides opportunities for a variety of recreational activities that are compatible with the conservancy’s primary roles in protection of cultural heritage and ecological values, such as: fishing, hiking, mountaineering, wildlife viewing, recreational boating, kayaking and exploration of nature in a remote, backcountry setting. The deep valleys and rugged, snow-capped mountains in the conservancy also hold considerable scenic value.

Recreational Boating A protected anchorage in Bond Sound makes the Hada (Ahta) Estuary accessible to recreational boaters, kayakers and sports fishers travelling through Tribune Channel from Gilford Island and other nearby protected areas, such as Burdwood Group Conservancy, Broughton Archipelago Marine Park and Broughton Archipelago Conservancy. Boat access to Knight Inlet can be challenging, owing to frequent, strong winds and the limited availability of suitable anchorages in Knight Inlet. Two safe anchorages near Ahnuhati Point have been identified as suitable for temporary or emergency use by the Council of British Columbia Yacht Clubs (Figure 2). Safe anchorages are otherwise lacking in the upper reaches of Knight Inlet, making day use more common among recreational boaters.

Guided Sightseeing/Nature Appreciation Sightseeing tours in Knight Inlet take in the impressive display of Twin Falls and Bald Peak on the eastern side of the Inlet, as well as striking, high cliffs on the western shore. There is currently one operator with a park use permit to conduct hiking and guided wildlife viewing (no facilities) in the conservancy. A small dock anchored seasonally offshore of the conservancy at the mouth of Kwalate Creek is used as a tie-up for the tour operator’s passenger boat. A rowboat is then used to take visitors ashore for walking excursions in the lower reaches of Kwalate Creek.

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Recreational Fishing There are currently two angling guides with park use permits to operate in the conservancy. The Ahnuhati, Ahta, and Kakweiken Rivers, as well as Kwalate Creek, are characterized by high Steelhead, salmon and trout fishing values. The Ahta and Kakweiken Rivers are both Class 2 waters, classified as such because they are highly productive trout streams offering excellent recreational fishing opportunities. The Ahnuhati River just downstream of Tanockteuch Creek has been a destination for fly-in Steelhead fishing. Kakweiken Lake has also been a destination for sport fishing by helicopter, offering a good landing site as well as high trout fishing values. However, declines in Steelhead stocks over the past decade have led to corresponding declines in guided angling activity at these locations.

Hiking and Mountaineering The remote, rugged terrain in Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy provides hiking and mountaineering opportunities for experienced backcountry recreationists. There are reportedly several user-created hiking routes in the conservancy (e.g., in Kwalate Creek, adjacent to the Ahta River, and connecting Ahta valley with Kingcome Inlet). However, no developed trails or facilities exist in the conservancy. There may be opportunities for future development of hiking trails and associated small scale, backcountry facilities in this conservancy.

Hunting/Guide Outfitting There are two guide outfitting areas that overlap with the conservancy. The majority of the conservancy (not including the Bald Peak parcel) is within the Ahnuhati Grizzly Bear Management Area and, as such, is closed to hunting of Grizzly Bears. However, the conservancy is open, in season, to hunting of Mountain Goat, Black Bear, Grey Wolf, Cougar, and Black-tailed Deer, as well as various species of waterfowl and upland birds.17

Cultural Tourism and Wildlife Viewing Given the conservancy’s rich cultural heritage and natural values, there is potential for development of cultural tourism and wildlife viewing opportunities to provide visitors with a guided cultural and natural interpretation/education experience.

Role Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy plays a role in providing recreational opportunities that are consistent with the conservancy’s primary roles in protection of cultural heritage and ecological values. Examples of such recreational opportunities include: fishing, hiking, mountaineering, wildlife viewing, recreational boating, kayaking, cultural tourism, and exploration of nature in a remote, backcountry setting.

17 For updated information, refer to the current BC Hunting and Trapping Synopsis available at http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/wildlife/hunting/regulations/

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2.5 Development or Use of Natural Resources

Values With the exception of the commercial recreation activities described in the previous section and several trap lines, there are currently no commercial resource uses occurring in Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy. Commercial salmon troll, gillnet, and seine fisheries, crab and prawn fisheries, and hook and line ground fisheries occur in the marine channels in the vicinity of the conservancy.

Role Conservancies can play a role in the sustainable use or development of natural resources, provided that this activity is consistent with the protection of natural, cultural and recreational values. The conservancy provides opportunities for First Nations cultural, social and ceremonial uses of traditional terrestrial and marine resources, such as fishing, hunting, harvest of cedar, and other activities.18 The conservancy may also be able to support small scale commercial resource use or development opportunities that are compatible with the conservancy’s primary roles in cultural heritage use, habitat conservation/protection and ecosystem representation. Resource use and development opportunities proposed to date in this conservancy include: commercial harvesting of non-timber forest product (e.g., salal, mushrooms, berries), glacial water extraction for bottling purposes in Knight Inlet (Twin Falls), a transmission line corridor crossing the Hada (Ahta) River Valley, and local run-of-the-river hydro electric power generation to support cultural tourism opportunities.

18 Note: Management of marine fisheries falls under the jurisdiction of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO).

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3.0 Management Direction

3.1 Vision

Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy continues to support the cultural heritage values, biological diversity and ecological functions associated with this multi- watershed, old-growth temperate rainforest ecosystem. Fish and wildlife are abundant, with thriving populations of Grizzly Bears, salmon, Mountain Goats, and other species. Estuarine and marine habitats and species are also protected in the conservancy foreshore. Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala and Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em members continue to practise their cultural traditions and pass on their knowledge of Hunwadi/Ahnuhati- Bald to future generations and visitors. The Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala and Mamalilikulla- Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em First Nations are participating in economic opportunities that are compatible with the protection of the conservancy’s cultural, ecological and recreational values. Visitors to the conservancy are enjoying a variety of backcountry recreation activities and gaining an appreciation of Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em and Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala cultural heritage. The collaborative relationships between BC Parks, the Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala, and the Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em are strong, ensuring active First Nation involvement in the protection of this conservancy. Both traditional ecological knowledge and scientific knowledge are utilized in management of the conservancy. BC Parks and the First Nations strive to ensure that the conservancy is managed into the future for the enjoyment of all visitors.

3.2 Recommended Marine Boundary

Protected area recommendations from the central coast land use decision that led to the creation of the conservancy did not address the marine environment. A subsequent agreement between the province and the Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala and Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em First Nations directed that individual management plans for conservancies make recommendations respecting the extension of the conservancy into the marine environment. Other provincial government agencies were also consulted on the development of the recommended marine boundary for this conservancy.

This management plan recommends expansion of the original conservancy boundary to include the foreshore components illustrated in Figure 9. This foreshore addition includes an area of approximately 80 ha in the Hada (Ahta) Estuary in Bond Sound, which protects intertidal and estuarine biodiversity values, and overlaps with part of a federal Rockfish Conservation Area (RCA) administered by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO).

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3.3 Management Objectives, Issues and Strategies

Five broad management objectives have been identified for Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy. The following tables list key issues related to each objective, as well as management strategies to address these issues in the conservancy.

Objective 1: Respect and protect First Nations social and cultural heritage values.

Issues Strategies

Cultural heritage features, such as village and burial Develop a collaborative approach to monitoring sites, throughout the traditional territories of the cultural heritage features in the conservancy (e.g., Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala and Mamalilikulla- Guardian Watchmen program). Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em, have been disturbed by visitors. Cultural heritage sites in the conservancy may also be vulnerable to disturbance by visitors.

Lack of public awareness of the importance of Develop signage and public educational material to Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy to First explain the cultural heritage values and sites in the Nations may impact the protection of cultural conservancy. heritage values.

Concern has been expressed by First Nations that Work with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), there has been a decline in the salmon populations relevant provincial agencies and partners to monitor in the four rivers in the conservancy and that this is and evaluate trends in populations of salmon species impacting the health of the ecosystem, which in each of the salmon-bearing rivers in the depends on marine-derived nutrients from salmon. conservancy. Work towards implementing restoration plans for specific rivers/watersheds, as required.

Cultural values and archaeological features in the Develop a sea level risk assessment and work to estuaries are particularly vulnerable to sea level rise develop appropriate response strategies for these expected to result from global climate change. sites. Due to the planned focus on cultural and traditional Recommend regulatory changes to prohibit hunting in uses in the First Nations Cultural Heritage Zones the three First Nations Cultural Heritage Zones. (e.g., cultural education/interpretation activities), hunting may conflict with and impact the quality of cultural activities in these zones.

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Objective 2: Protect biological diversity and natural environment values.

Issues Strategies

Lack of information on populations of species at risk Encourage research to monitor and better understand and focal species in ecosystem based management species at risk/focal species in the conservancy and (e.g., Marbled Murrelet, Northern Goshawk) implement management strategies, as required. prevents development of detailed management strategies.

Future development of recreational facilities (trails, Avoid situating recreational facilities in suitable backcountry huts) may impact Marbled Murrelet Marbled Murrelet and Northern Goshawk nesting and Northern Goshawk nesting habitat. In habitat. particular, such recreational use may impact Include site surveys to identify nest trees in the impact Marbled Murrelets by attracting predators, such as assessment for recreational facilities and retain any jays and crows, to Marbled Murrelet nests. trees identified as suitable for nesting.

There is potential for increased visitor use and During detailed planning for cultural and recreational recreational facility development to result in facilities, trails, and activities, minimize overlap disturbance to the Grizzly Bear population. between recreational uses and areas of high seasonal bear use. Refer to BC Parks Bear-People Conflict Prevention Plan, 3rd Ed. (2002) for operational guidance.

Marine fisheries may be vulnerable to depletion as Cooperate with Fisheries and Oceans Canada to recreational use levels increase (in the support the objectives of the Rockfish Conservation recommended foreshore addition to the Area in Bond Sound and the development of conservancy). management strategies to protect marine species in the recommended foreshore addition.

The conservancy may be vulnerable to adverse Build relationships with relevant provincial/federal effects from adjacent land uses and marine activities agencies and tenure holders adjacent to the (e.g., future forestry activity, commercial and conservancy, and monitor activities for potential recreational fisheries activities). impacts to conservancy values.

Lack of marine boundary may impact protection of Recommend the addition of the foreshore (described marine values. in Section 3.2, Recommended Marine Boundary) to the legal boundary of the conservancy.

The estuaries in the conservancy are particularly Manage the conservancy to accommodate the sensitive to sea level rise resulting from global potential upstream migration of the estuaries. climate change. Identify areas that may be inundated. Avoid construction of facilities or other infrastructure in areas that may be part of the migrating estuaries.

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Objective 3: Provide recreational opportunities that are consistent with the protection of natural and cultural values.

Issues Strategies

Limited knowledge of recreational use levels in the Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala, Mamalilikulla- conservancy impedes development of detailed Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em and BC Parks will collaboratively management strategies related to recreational use. monitor recreational use and implement strategies to protect the conservancy’s cultural heritage and

biodiversity values.

Lack of inventory and assessment of the user- Conduct an inventory and assessment of the condition created hiking routes in the conservancy (e.g., in of identified hiking routes and develop appropriate Kwalate Creek, adjacent to the Ahta River, and management strategies. connecting Ahta valley with Kingcome Inlet) impedes development of detailed management strategies for these recreational features.

Lack of site-specific information (e.g., on terrain Support the preparation of a technical suitability/technical feasibility) impedes the ability feasibility/suitability study to assess the potential for of BC Parks to evaluate interests in the development a trail network connecting the Hunwadi/Ahnuhati of a trail network and backcountry huts in the River and Kwalate Creek valleys. Wilderness Recreation Zone. Subject to the outcome of the feasibility/suitability study, support the preparation and implementation of a detailed trail and backcountry facility plan for the proposed route.

Lack of information on the suitability of the Support the preparation of a bear viewing strategy to conservancy for bear viewing impedes the ability of identify suitable locations for bear viewing BC Parks to review proposals or offer opportunities opportunities within the conservancy. for this activity. Require operators to prepare site specific bear viewing management plans for any locations identified as suitable for bear viewing.

Angling opportunities have declined due to Work with relevant provincial agencies and partners to corresponding declines in Steelhead stocks in the support the recovery of Steelhead populations. Ahnuhati River and Kakweiken Lake.

Potential impacts to visual and aesthetic values on Liaise with the provincial ministry responsible for adjacent shorelines in Knight Inlet and Bond Sound forest management and tenure holders adjacent to may compromise the recreation and tourism values the conservancy to ensure consideration is given to of the conservancy. protection of visual and aesthetic values in Knight Inlet and Bond Sound.

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Objective 4: Ensure economic opportunities in the conservancy contribute to broader goals of human wellbeing in the central coast.19

Issues Strategies

Lack of participation of Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala and Implement collaborative management agreement Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em First Nations in commitments to provide the Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala economic opportunities in the protected areas in and Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em First Nations with their traditional territories. enhanced access to economic opportunities in the protected areas within their traditional territories, including the conservancy.

Recreation and tourism opportunities are important Maintain existing and identify new commercial for economic diversification in local communities on recreation opportunities in the conservancy to assist northern Vancouver Island and the mainland coast. in local economic diversification.

Objective 5: Ensure the use or development of natural resources is sustainable and consistent with the protection of the conservancy’s values.

Issues Strategies

Proposed extraction of glacial water from Cascade Consider any specific proposal at Cascade Creek (Twin Creek (Twin Falls) in Knight Inlet may impact the Falls) for further evaluation. conservancy’s roles in cultural heritage use, habitat conservation/protection and provision of a scenic, backcountry experience for recreationists.

Development of a proposed transmission line Consider specific proposals for further evaluation. corridor crossing the Ahta River Valley may impact In review of permit application, consider alternate the conservancy’s role in representation and routes to avoid linear development in the protection of a multi-watershed, old-growth forest conservancy’s undisturbed watersheds. ecosystem.

Lack of information regarding the potential for Support the preparation of a feasibility study to assess harvesting of non-timber forest products in the the potential for harvesting of non-timber forest conservancy impedes the ability to determine products. whether the proposed activities are appropriate, Consider specific proposals for further evaluation. low-impact and sustainable.

19 Adapted from the ecosystem based management goal to achieve high levels of human wellbeing in the central coast. See 2004 Central Coast Land and Resource Management Plan Completion Table Recommendations (p.17) at http://archive.ilmb.gov.bc.ca/slrp/lrmp/nanaimo/cencoast/docs/table_rec/final_report_may20_04.pdf

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Objective 5: Ensure the use or development of natural resources is sustainable and consistent with the protection of the conservancy’s values.

Issues Strategies

Lack of a specific proposal impedes ability of BC Only consider specific proposals for small scale, low Parks to evaluate interests in local run-of-the-river impact local run-of-the-river hydroelectric power hydroelectric power generation in the conservancy. generation to support cultural education/interpretation/tourism activities in the conservancy for further evaluation.

3.4 Conservancy Zoning

Introduction Zoning assists in the planning and management of protected areas. In general terms, zoning divides an area into logical units to apply consistent management objectives. Two zoning designations have been applied to Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy: the First Nations Cultural Heritage Zone and the Wilderness Recreation Zone.

First Nations Cultural Heritage Zone The First Nations Cultural Heritage Zone protects significant First Nations cultural places and activities, including traditional uses, cultural features and sites in Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy. The First Nations Cultural Heritage Zone has been applied to three different areas within the conservancy: Kwalate Creek, Bald Peak and Hada (the Ahta River Estuary) (Figure 9). Management objectives for each of these three areas are described below.

Kwalate Creek First Nations Cultural Heritage Zone (FNCH1) The Kwalate Creek First Nations Cultural Heritage Zone has been applied to the mouth of Kwalate Creek. The zone extends upslope from the shoreline to 100 m elevation and follows this contour approximately 1.5 km upstream. The objective of this zone is to protect the culturally significant former year-round village site and traditional use area at the mouth of Kwalate Creek, including the archaeological sites in this area. This zone also protects fish and wildlife habitat values in the Kwalate Creek estuary. This zone will provide opportunities for traditional use activities, as well as cultural education/interpretation and cultural tourism. Backcountry recreation activities, such as beach exploration, nature appreciation, hiking, and fishing, will also be appropriate in this zone. Further development of trails and small day use shelters will be considered as

Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy Management Plan - Draft August 2011 30 possible, future uses in this zone to support cultural education/interpretation and tourism activities.20 This zone encompasses approximately 90 hectares (0.2%) of the conservancy.

Bald Peak First Nations Cultural Heritage Zone (FNCH2) The Bald Peak First Nations Cultural Heritage Zone has been applied to the portion of the conservancy on the east side of Knight Inlet, which includes Bald and Glacier peaks. Bald Peak is a culturally and spiritually significant place for the Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala First Nation. Bald and Glacier peaks also form a unique and striking landform with spectacular scenic value. Protection of the cultural, spiritual and scenic values associated with Bald Peak will be the primary purpose of this zone. Recreational access into this zone is challenging, given the steep slopes at the base of Bald Peak descending into Knight Inlet. Recreational uses will not be encouraged in the Bald Peak First Nations Cultural Heritage Zone. This zone encompasses approximately 3,631 hectares (6.6 %) of the conservancy.

Hada First Nations Cultural Heritage Zone (FNCH3) The Hada First Nations Cultural Heritage Zone encompasses the area of the former village at Hada, in the Hada (Ahta) River estuary. The zone extends upstream to the waterfall on the Hada (Ahta) River that forms a barrier to passage of most salmon species. The objective of this zone is to protect the cultural values associated with this former village site and traditional resource use location of the Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em. This zone also protects the biodiversity values at Hada, in particular the salmon and Grizzly Bear habitat values associated with the estuary. This zone provides opportunities for traditional use activities, cultural education/interpretation activities and cultural tourism. This zone also provides opportunities for recreational activities that are consistent with the protection of cultural and natural values, such as backcountry camping, hiking, nature appreciation, kayaking and fishing. Guided wildlife viewing will be considered as a possible future use in this zone. This zone encompasses approximately 724 hectares (1.3 %) of the conservancy.

20 There is an existing, user-created hiking route in this zone. However, the condition of this route has not been assessed.

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Figure 9: Zoning Map

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Wilderness Recreation Zone The Wilderness Recreation Zone includes the majority of the Ahnuhati River, Kwalate Creek, and the Hada (Ahta) River watersheds, as well as the upper portion of the Kakweiken watershed that is within the conservancy. The objective of this zone is to protect a remote, undisturbed natural landscape with low levels of recreational use and minimal facility development. This zone protects riparian areas and rivers that support important salmon-bear ecosystem interactions, as well as patches of high and very high value Marbled Murrelet habitat, and suitable Northern Goshawk habitat (both species at risk and focal species in ecosystem based management on the central coast). This zone also protects traditional hunting, trapping and resource harvesting areas of the Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em and Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala First Nations. Recreational activities will be managed in this zone to protect these natural and cultural values. This zone also provides opportunities for recreational activities such as backcountry hiking and angling. At present, there are no developed trails or backcountry facilities in this zone. The following may be considered as possible future uses in the Kwalate and Ahnuhati watersheds within this zone:  Small scale day-use facilities, such as shelters with work areas to demonstrate traditional use activities (e.g., canoe and pole carving), as well as an area to prepare traditional meals (supported by run-of-the-river hydro electric power);  Wildlife viewing; and,  Development of a trail network with small scale, backcountry huts/shelters and associated interpretive signage. The upper reaches of the Hada (Ahta) River and the Kakweiken drainages in the Wilderness Recreation zone are intended for protection of ecological values, old growth forests and wildlife habitat. Backcountry recreation uses will be acceptable with little or no facility development. Air access to the commonly accessed helicopter landing sites at Kakweiken Lake and Tanockteuch Creek will continue to be permitted in the Wilderness Recreation zone. This zone encompasses approximately 50, 861 hectares (92%) of the conservancy.

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4.0 Plan Implementation

An adaptive approach will be applied to management of this conservancy. Adaptive management involves a five-step process of planning, action, monitoring, evaluation and revision of management strategies to reflect lessons learned. Adaptive management is flexible, collaborative, and responsive to public input. The effectiveness of the management strategies identified in this plan at achieving the objectives for Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy will be monitored and evaluated by the Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala, Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em First Nations and BC Parks. Collaborative management strategies and actions may change over time to reflect new circumstances and information gained. Management strategies may also be revised to respond to the implementation of broader objectives of ecosystem based management in the central coast. Priority strategies for implementation include:  Developing a collaborative approach to monitoring cultural heritage features and recreational uses in the conservancy (e.g., Guardian Watchmen program);  Implementing collaborative management agreement commitments to provide the Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala and Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em First Nations with enhanced access to economic opportunities in the protected areas within their traditional territories;  Recommending the addition of the foreshore (described in Section 3.2, Recommended Marine Boundary) to the legal boundary of the conservancy. The implementation of the first priority action outlined above is dependent on the availability of BC Parks’, Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala and Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em financial and staff resources. Approval of this plan does not constitute approval of funding for implementation. No specific, future management planning is envisioned for Hunwadi/Ahnuhati-Bald Conservancy. However, BC Parks will work with the First Nations to coordinate planning and management of the conservancy, as required.

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Appendix A – Appropriate Uses Table

The following table lists existing and potential future uses in the conservancy. This is not an exhaustive list of uses that may be considered for this conservancy. The table is provided to summarize the uses which the management planning process has confirmed are not appropriate in specific zones in Hunwadi/Ahnuhati Bald Conservancy. The table also gives a general indication of the management direction for other uses. The table must be reviewed in conjunction with the other sections of the management plan, including the role descriptions, vision, objectives and strategies. The management direction for marine activities listed here will apply at such time as the conservancy boundary is amended to include a foreshore component.

Activities Kwalate First Bald Peak First Hada First Wilderness Nations Nations Nations Recreation Cultural Cultural Cultural Zone Heritage Zone Heritage Zone Heritage Zone (FNCH 1) (FNCH 2) (FNCH 3) Wildlife Viewing Y N Y Y Boating (motorized) Y N/A Y Y Boating (non-motorized) Y N/A Y Y Aircraft Access Y Y Y Y Hunting N N N Y21 Recreational Fishing Y N/A Y Y Trapping Y Y Y Y Fisheries Restoration 22 Y N/A Y Y Commercial Non-timber Forest Product Harvest Y N Y Y Facilities/Infrastructure Kwalate First Bald Peak First Hada First Wilderness Nations Nations Nations Recreation Cultural Cultural Cultural Zone Heritage Zone Heritage Zone Heritage Zone (FNCH1) (FNCH2) (FNCH3)

Camp Sites (walk-in) Y N Y Y Information and Interpretation Buildings/Shelters Y N Y Y (small scale)

21 With the exception of the Bald Peak First Nations Cultural Heritage Zone, the conservancy is within the Ahnuhati Grizzly Bear Management Area, in which hunting of Grizzly Bears is prohibited. Management of black bear hunting will be consistent with the outcomes of negotiations between the Mamalilikulla- ‘Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em and Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala First Nations and the Province of British Columbia. If required, changes will be reflected in amendments to this management plan. 22 BC Parks will work collaboratively with the Mamalilikulla-Qwe’Qwa’Sot’Em, Da’naxda’xw/Awaetlala and DFO on specific marine habitat or species projects.

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Activities Kwalate First Bald Peak First Hada First Wilderness Nations Nations Nations Recreation Cultural Cultural Cultural Zone Heritage Zone Heritage Zone Heritage Zone (FNCH 1) (FNCH 2) (FNCH 3) Cabins/Yurts/Huts/Shelters N N N Y Mooring Buoys N/A N/A Y N/A Interpretive Signage Y N Y Y Trails Y N Y Y Local Run-of-the-River Hydroelectric Projects Y N Y Y Utility Corridors N N Y Y Glacial Water Extraction N Y N N

Legend

 It has been confirmed during the management planning process that this use is not appropriate in this N Not an zone. appropriate  This may be an existing use which the management planning process has determined is no longer an use in this appropriate use in this zone. The management plan details strategies for addressing this inappropriate use zone (e.g., phasing out, closing).  This indicates that some degree or scale of this use may be appropriate. Y May be an  For existing uses, the management plan will provide guidance on the appropriate level or scale of this use appropriate (e.g., direction to reduce, restrict or increase the current level of this activity) and may address specific use in this restrictions or enhancements (e.g., capacity, appropriate sites, designated trails, purposes, party size, time zone of year, etc.).  For new or expanded uses, this does not constitute approval. This indicates that the use may be considered for further evaluation and possible approval (e.g., park use permit adjudication, completion of a review as part of the BC Parks’ Impact Assessment Process). In some cases the appropriateness may not be confirmed until further assessments are completed.  This is applied where it is not feasible for the use to take place in this zone (e.g., mooring buoys in a N/A Not an terrestrial zone). applicable use in this zone

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