IN THIS EDITION:
Shelter In Place COVID-19 Social P. 6 –8 Order Extended P.10 Pandemic P. 19 Development Response Update
Table of Contents Cowichan Tribes Resource Phone Directory 3 5760 Allenby Rd Accessing Information Duncan, BC 4 V9L 5J1 A/ General Manager Update 5 P: 250.748.3196 Shelter In Place Order—Extended Fax: 250.748.1233 6-8 COVID-19 Pandemic Response 9-10 Hours Ts’ewulhtun Health Centre Mon - Fri 11-18 8:30 am to 12:00 pm Social Development 19 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm Sustainable Housing Department 20-24 Operations & Maintenance 25-26 Membership & Tobacco Tax 27 Advertising Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum - Culture & Education 28-30 Half Page $24.50 Flood Response 31-32 Full Page $49.00 Lulumexun - Lands & Governance 33-35 Full Page with Color Lalum’utul’ Smun’eem - Child & Family Services 36-39 $263.00 Khowutzun Development Corporation 40-41 Children’s Coloring Page 42 Subscriptions Canadian & Business Deadline for April 2021 Newsletter Submission:March 24, 2021 $100.00 Please submit via Publisher or Word
USA $120.00 Send to: Sherri Norris, Communications Coordinator
in Administration Building OR Off Reserve Cowichan Members
$36.00 Email: [email protected]
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Resource Phone Directory
Cowichan Tribes—Regular Hours
E: [email protected] COVID-19 Community Navigators …………………………………... 250.715.3339 Administration Office……………………………………………………… 250.748.3196
Cowichan Tribes Security ……………………………………………….. 250.732.1449 Social Development ……………………………………………………….. 778.422.2255 Lalum’utul’ Smun’eem ……………………………………………………. 250.746.1002 Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum—Culture & Education ………. 250.715.1022
Ya Thuy Thut ……………………………………………………….. 250.746.7170
Le’lumel Daycare …………………………………………………. 250.746.5966
Quw’utsun Smun’eem Elementary ………………………. 250.748.1779 Lulumexun Lands & Governance……………………………………… 236.800.4023 Si’em Lelum Gymnasium ………………………………………………… 250.748.1831 Sustainable Housing Department …………………………………… 250.715.3302
Ts’ewulhtun Health ………………………………………………………… 250.746.6184
Medical Taxi ………………………………………………………… 250.746.6644
Slhexun Sun’ts’a Clinic (Doctor’s Office) ………………. 250.715.3322 Youth Center ………………………………………………………………….. 250-746.0607 Cowichan Tribes—After Hours
Ts’ewulhtun Health (Mon. to Wed. 5:30—8:30 pm) ………………………… 250.252.0207 Cowichan Community Security ………………………………………. 250.732.1449 Emergency Contacts
Housing Emergency (24/7) 250.715.3302 Urgent Matters (Jodee Dick) 250.732.4962 Infrastructure Emergency (Rob Rice) 250.252.0453 Children’s Helpline (24/7) 310.1234 Quw’utsun Newsletter | 3
Accessing Information
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Message from Jodee Dick, A/ General Manager
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself for those members that do not know who I am. My name is Jodee Dick, and I am a member of the Weiwaikum First Nation is Campbell River. I have over 30 years’ experience in Federal Land Man- agement, Governance, and Negotiations.
I was Cowichan Tribes Land Manager from May of 2014 to March 2020. During this period, I was also working with KDC as an Economic Advisor and was promoted to CEO in April of 2020. On Tuesday, February 9, 2021, I was asked by Council to assume the role as Acting General Manager for Cowichan Tribes and I accepted.
I have been given a three month contract, while Cowichan Tribes secures a full-time General Manager. I will ensure that KDC continues to move forward with our Strate- gic planning, Website development and our economic opportunities, and we will be advising membership on these initiates over the next few months.
I am excited to be working with the Cowichan Tribes team and look to support our departments, our membership and our leadership over the next few months as your Acting General Manager.
My office is open to all and welcomes you to reach out and let me know how I can support you and your community.
Huy tseep q’u,
Jodee Dick, A/General Manager of Cowichan Tribes
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Shelter In Place Order - Extended TO: Cowichan Tribes Members and Residents February 17, 2021 FROM: Cowichan Tribes Chief and Council SUBJECT: COVID-19 Shelter in Place Order Extended UntilMarch 5, 2021
Dear Cowichan Tribes community, I would like to inform you that Council has extended the Cowichan Tribes Shelter in Place Order for an addi- tional two weeks. The order will remain in effect until 5 pm Marchon 5, 2021. The order is being extended because we are still seeing new COVID-19 cases in our community, some people are in hospital, and new households are being affected. We are also saddened by the loss of two more com- munity members, who passed away over the weekend. On behalf of Chief and Council, and the entire com- munity, I want to offer our condolences. It’s important to share that the individuals who passed away were both young adults. While we’ve been mak- ing great efforts to protect our Elders, we now see that this virus is high-risk for many and we must all take it seriously and continue to be careful. Many of you have been staying home and doing your part. Thank you for making these choices that are keeping everyone safe. Please continue to follow all COVID-19 safety protocols by not visiting other house- holds, keeping your distance (2 m/6 ft), wearing a mask in public, only leaving home for essential reasons, and getting tested if you are sick. The new variants of this disease out of the United Kingdom and elsewhere make it so important that every- one continue to follow public health orders, and our Shelter in Place Order. We have seen here in Cowichan and with neighbouring communities that Shelter in Place orders can be successful. By following these orders, we can stop the spread and get back to having zero cases in our community. For your health, it’s important to get tested at the FIRST sign of symptoms. If you catch this virus early, you have a much better chance of recovering from it. To make testing more accessible, there is COVID-19 testing available at our Health Centre and we can have you tested at your home. Medical Transportation for testing is available - please call Ts’ewulhtun Health Centre at 250-746-6184. We understand this is a difficult time. Especially not being able to visit with family and friends, and practice our culture the way we normally do. If you need support, please reach out by calling our COVID-19 Communi- ty Navigators at 250-715-3339. We have made various financial and mental health supports available to help our members. See this COVID-19 guide for more information. Let’s all continue to work together to bring the case numbers down to zero. Together we will get through this.
Chief William Seymour
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Shelter In Place Order - Extended Shelter In Place Order Extended & Restrictions On Access To Reserve Due to the ongoing cases, Chief and Council have extended the Shelter in Place Order which all members and residents on reserve must follow.
This order initially in effect from Januaryth 6 , 2021 to January 22nd, 2021, was first extended until February 5th, then again until February 19th. It is now being extended once again until March 5th. This is referred to as the “Closure Period”. This order is authorized under Cowichan Tribes’ COVID-19 Community Protection Bylaw. Under this order: 1) All members must shelter in place (stay at home). 2) Access to residential areas and residential buildings in Cowichan Tribes Reserve is restricted. 3) Barriers and checkpoints will be set up to enforce this order and provide information. Shelter in Place (Stay at Home) Order Under this order:
Cowichan Tribes residents must stay at home. Residents may only leave their homes for the following reasons: work, school, medical appointments, to obtain groceries, medicines and other essential items, or to care for a family member who is ill. Members may also go outdoors for fresh air, time in nature, or walking pets - but only alone or with members of their household. When outside, do not stop to gather
with people you don’t live with.
No events or gatherings with people from outside your household. Cowichan Tribes residents cannot gather or hold events – indoors or outdoors – with people from outside their household. For individuals
living alone, follow the Provincial Health Officer’s orders.
Designate a household shopper & limit shopping trips. Cowichan Tribes residents should designate one person per household to go out shopping, and limit shopping trips to once per week. Residents are en- couraged to have groceries, medications, and other essential goods delivered to your home by ordering online or over the phone.
Restrictions on Access to the ReserveUnder this order:
All residential buildings in Cowichan Tribes are designated as “Restricted Areas” during the Closure Peri-
od. This means that access to residential buildings and residential areas on reserve is restricted.
A person may only be present in a Restricted Area if they are: i. a Member; ii. an Authorized Occupant; iii. the spouse or family member of a Member who routinely resides with a Member on the Restricted Area; iv. conducting urgent appliance or home repairs; v. delivering goods to a home or a Member-owned business on the Restricted Area;
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Shelter In Place Order - Extended
vi. caring for an Authorized Occupant; vii. providing emergency services (e.g. firefighting, child and family services, medical, RCMP and Search and Rescue services); viii. doing work to maintain or repair utilities or public infrastructure (e.g. hydro, phone, inter- net, snowplowing, garbage removal); ix. providing essential services or other work for Cowichan Tribes at Cowichan Tribes’ re- quest; or x. ordinarily a resident of the Restricted Area. This means that no person may visit a residential building or residential area in Cowichan Tribes, unless it is for an essential purpose noted above.
Barriers & Security Checkpoints Under this order: Cowichan Tribes will set up barriers with information about the Restricted Areas and the Shelter in Place Order. Cowichan Tribes will set up security checkpoints, as necessary, in areas that require additional education and enforcement efforts. Do You Have Symptoms? Have You Been In Contact With Someone Who Has Symptoms? If you have any symptoms of COVID-19 – even mild ones – or have been in contact with someone who has symptoms self-isolate and call 1-844-901-8442. COVID-19 symptoms include: cough, headache, fever, sore throat, shortness of breath, fatigue, runny nose, loss of appetite, chills, loss of sense of smell or taste, nausea and vomiting, increasing chronic muscle aches, diarrhea. Seeour COVID-19 Guide for more information. Feeling Sick? Get Tested Cowichan COVID-19 Assessment Centre, 5151 Polkey Rd., Duncan, BC (by appointment). Call 1-844-901-8442 (8:30 A.M. – 8:00 P.M.). DO NOT ride share. Drive alone or call Ts’ewulhtun Health Centre for transportation 250-746-6184. Masks will be required. If a contact tracer from Public Health reaches out to you, support their work to keep us safe and answer their questions.Your answers are confidential. We Are Here To Support COVID-19 Community Navigators (250) 715-3339 or Ts’ewulhtun Health: (250) 746-6184. If you are strug- gling and need to talk to someone, we are here to support you. Please call Ts’ewulhtun. You can also call the Vancouver Island Crisis Line 1‑888‑494‑3888 (24-hour line) or text 250-800-3806 (from your mobile 6 P.M.- 10 P.M.).
Please check the website regularly in case of additional extensions to the Shelter in Place order.
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COVID-19 Pandemic Response
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COVID-19 Pandemic Response
Cowichan Tribes’ COVID-19 Pandemic Response
COVID-19 Symptoms? Get Tested!
Other symptoms include tiredness, aches and pains, sore throat, diarrhea conjunctivitis, headache, loss of taste or smell, a rash on skin, or discoloration of fingers or toes
GET TESTED AT FIRST SIGN OF SYMPTOMS
TO PREVENT SEVERE ILLNESS AND SPREADING THE VIRUS TO OTHERS
For the self-assessment tool and full list of symptoms Go to https://bc.thrive.health
If the self-assessment advises a COVID-19 test
Call: 1-844-901-8442 (8:30 am—8:00 pm) to book an appointment. You will be asked to leave your name and tel. # Location: ICBC Claim Centre 5151 Polkey Rd., Duncan, BC
By appointment only. Mouth Rinse and Gargle Test is available. Find more information athttp://covid -19.bccdc.ca/
Do Not Ride Share. Drive yourself or call Ts’ewulhtun Health Centre (250-746-6184) for medical transportation available Monday — Friday 8:30 am - 9:00 pm. Or text 250-732-0087. If you cannot go to the testing site, we may be able to arrange testing at your home. Contact us! You must wear a mask!
Get your COVID-19 Test results by Text https://results.bccdc.ca/ or call 1-833-707-2792
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Ts’ewulhtun Health
Have You Moved or Changed Phone Number? Don’t miss out on important COVID-19 information or upcoming programs. Please call us today and update your contact information.
Tw’ewulhtun Health Centre 250-746-6184
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Ts’ewulhtun Health Slhexun Sun’ts’a’ Clinic Located at 291 Cowichan Way (inside Superstore)
Slhexun sun’ts’a’ Clinic continues to take new patients; priority is given to community members that do not have a family Doctor.
Clinic hours: Monday—Wednesday: 9:00 am—8:30 pm (Closed for lunch 12—1 pm and dinner from 4:30—5:30 pm)
Thursday—Friday: 9:00 am—4:30 pm (Closed for lunch from 12—1 pm)
Current patients can book an appointment online using the link: https://onlineappointmentbooking.medikazam.com/medical/#1016/ clinicInformation
The link and other clinic information can also be found on the Slhexun sun’ts’a’ page of the Cowichan Tribes website.
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Ts’ewulhtun Health Quw’utsun Elders Home Support Services Why Home Support? Home support helps people live safely in their own home for as long as possible. We provide care and support for you in your home if you are: recovering from illness or surgery, have a chronic condition, are disabled, or are needing care at the end of your life. Home support is intended to enhance your care. Our services are not meant to replace your efforts to care for your- self, with the help of your family, friends, community and other available services.
**For additional information, please see next page “Quw’utusn Home Support Services, cont’d”**
Home Support Services during Covid-19: Who can Receive Home Support?
We can only offer at risk Elders with no support: Sim- Cowichan Tribes’ Home support program is available to ple meal preparation, medication checks, or personal First Nations people who reside on the Cowichan Reserve care. and who meet requirements. Your Elders’ Nurse will work with you to identify your personal care needs and explore Elders receiving services are approved by the Covid-19 other options to meet those needs prior to starting home lead. support. They will help you link to other services in your area or access home support if needed. If home support Non-emergency visits such as home making have been services are needed, the nurse will develop a plan of care placed “on-hold” due to the pandemic until we ad- with you. vance to Phase Two services.
Current intake for new clients is assessed on a case by Covid-19 Re-start of Services: case basis. We have developed a re-start plan with guidelines and protocols to ensure the safety of our community mem- Please support Elders during this time by bers and staff. We continue to offer Stage One Emer- checking on family members until we are approved to gency Services until further notice. return to work.
We look forward to seeing everyone as soon as we can safely do so.
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Ts’ewulhtun Health Quw’utsun Elders Home Support Services cont’d Elders Nursing & Staff: Elders nurses and staff are working daily and following Covid-19 protocols. We continue to support Elders through: Providing in home visits by Personal Care Workers (PCW) for meal prep, personal care, and medication remind- ers. Wellness telephone check-ins, either by Elders nurses or PCWs. Elders’ nurses are staggering shifts to support work in office and also working from home. Supporting Elders by submitting Special Need Requests, referring to Occupational Therapy, communicating with doctors and community partners, attending emergency situations. Providing bus transport for Covid-19 testing and delivering food hampers. Hospital Liaison: Helen Dunlop is our Aboriginal Liaison and works 8:30 - 4:30 Monday to Friday.
Foot Care: Collaboration: Can be We work with in-house team members as well as provided by community partners to better serve our Elders.
Occupational Therapy: Dr. Feist, podiatrist. Please connect with one of the El- Assessing home environments of clients for ders nurses prior to booking safety. For more information an appointment to ensure Advising on adaptive equipment to help cli- or to request an fees are covered. ents with daily activities. assessment, please call us at Dr Feist is located at Conducting physical and psychological assess- 250-746-6184, and request to 208-225 Canada Avenue. ments. speak to your Tel: 250-597-7300 Better at Home: for light housekeeping Elders’ Nurse
Island Health: supplemental Home Support Ser- vices Diabetes support: Danna Lyngard & April DeYaeger Registered dietician: April DeYaeger
Food Hampers: Meals on Wheels: The Elder’s kitchen is providing hampers to communi- Meals are delivered to community members who ty members who qualify and who are in our Home qualify and who are in our Home Support program. Support program.
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Ts’ewulhtun Health
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Ts’ewulhtun Health Supporting Connection Circle Supporting Connection Circle: Every Monday 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Kwun’atsustul Counselling is offering a weekly Zoom circle to provide connection and support with a focus on uplifting our spirits, hearts, and honouring resili- ence during these challenging times. While we are un- able to gather in person, this circle offers one way we can positively support each other.
This is open to all Cowichan Tribes members and their families.
For More Info Contact: Mellissa: 250-732-1602 or [email protected] Donna: 250-732-4496 or [email protected]
Topic: Kwun'atsustul Supporting Connection Circle
MONDAYS 11AM – 12:30PM
Meeting ID: 990 4823 4226 Passcode: community
Join Zoom Meetinghttps://zoom.us/j/99048234226?pwd=Ymt0My9LSEV3M2FqeVF4 RFQxdFBDQT09
Join by phone: 778-907-2071
Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/actESnmPxW
More Info: https://www.facebook.com/kwunatsustul
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Ts’ewulhtun Health Couples Circle
Kwun’atsustul Counselling is offering a weekly ZOOM couples circle in the spirit of supporting connections. Many couples and families have been feeling additional pressure and stress this year. Couple relation- ships form the foundation of our family life and teaching our children about how to be in a relationship.
This couples circle will strengthen positive connection and provide peer support to work through challenges together (There are no tak- ing sides or blaming one person! This is to support the couple rela- tionship).
This circle is open to all Cowichan Tribes members and their families.
Couples Circle Is Every Tuesday 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Online via ZOOM Meeting ID: 929 4566 1548. Passcode: connection Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/92945661548? pwd=RmtVOVViYVExbjRLVFhWUmx GWjhCZz09 Join by phone: 778-907-2071 Meeting ID: 929 4566 1548. Passcode: 9005725455 Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/adPiPy0Xy0 Find Us On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kwunatsustul For More Info Contact: Nancy: 250-732-0608 or [email protected] Edward: 250-732-5372 or [email protected]
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Ts’ewulhtun Health CHOOSE RESPECT GROUPS Sponsored by: Kwun’atsustul Counselling
Men Choose Respect
Partnering with men to build safety and
respect within their families. This is a
10-week Zoom group for men.
For more information or to sign-up: Call: 236-800-4022
Open to all Cowichan Tribes men and their fami- lies. Leave a confidential voicemail and a coun- selor will contact you within 2 business days.
A program for men who want to change MEN CHOOSE RESPECT their use of abuse in their intimate relation- ships or in their family.
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Social Development Cowichan Tribes SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT 5760 Allenby Road • Duncan, BC V9L 5J1 Telephone 778-422-2255 Fax: 778-422-1303 Website: www.cowichantribes.com
BANK ACCOUNTS & DIRECT DEPOSIT Thank you for setting up bank accounts and setting up direct deposit! This is a reminder that clients who have not set up bank accounts or direct deposits, your cheques will be mailed out to you for March 23, 2021. 2020 Income Tax Returns Please note: Johnny Crocker is setting up with Canada Revenue Agency to complete 2020 income tax returns for Social Development clients. Please call Social Development and speak to Johnny. His scheduled office days are Tuesdays & Wednesdays or email: [email protected]
Social Development staff are scheduled to be in the office during the work week as well as work from home. They do not make phone calls from their home/cell phones, please be patient with staff when they are not scheduled to be in the office.
Social Development continues to work to meet client/community needs and making sure everyone is kept safe in the process.
Please continue to email or phone in your Monthly Renewal Declarations (also known as stubs). So- cial Development Band Social Development Workers appreciate an email stub from you so that they can connect with you that way and there is a paper trail for your record.
COVID-19 Shelter –In-Place Order extended to March 5, 2021
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Sustainable Housing Sustainable Housing Department CONTACT US BY PHONE (250-715-3302)
Call us Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM-12:00 PM & 1:00 PM-4:30 PM. BY EMAIL Send us a message at [email protected]. AFTER HOURS EMERGENCIES (250-715-3302) Calls should be for emergencies such as:
Flood from Plumbing
Heat System Failure
Power Failure
Broken window (if it poses security risks or rain can enter)
Septic Failure (make sure to have your septic pumped and serviced regularly) If you call in an emergency, our on-call contractors must be able to contact you by phone. For all other maintenance items—contact our office during regular business hours. LEAVE US A MESSAGE ON OUR WEBSITE Visit us at www.cowichantribes.com/housing to leave us a message or to report a concern. PAY RENT Send an e-Transfer to [email protected]. ALL direct deposits must state the rental address and tenant name(s) the payment is for. Visit www.cowichantribes.com/payingct for more information.
We have joined Facebook! Visit us at www.facebook.com/cowichantribeshousing
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Sustainable Housing Current Projects Upcoming Projects Rental Units under 2809 Statlou Crescent Rebuild Renovation The Sustainable Housing Department is excited about the rebuild progress. The site was previously The Sustainable Housing Department is currently home to a duplex which was lost to fire damage in in the process of major renovations in six band October, 2019. Initial timelines for rebuilding were rental units. Upgrades include fresh paint, new extended due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, but cabinetry, flooring and appliance replacements. construction is now set to continue in the coming months. Safety Equipment Upgrades
Smoke Detector and safety equipment replacement remains ongoing in all band rental units. Tenants are reminded that tampering or removing their smoke detectors is considered a breach of their housing agreement. If your smoke detectors are not in working order, please contact our Department immediately. *Photo above is of Geotechnical Survey Equipment on site gathering data needed for site renderings (2/8/21) Roof Repairs Ongoing What Members Can Expect A 3870 square foot two-story four unit complex As part of an ongoing effort to increase the safety built to Step 3 Energy Code of on-reserve homes, the Sustainable Housing Project completion by April 2022 Department has scheduled a number of roof Regular project updates via the website, replacements for the 2021 calendar year. Facebook page and Newsletter There are currently 3 roofs scheduled for repair or Contractor signed and the contractor will be replacement in the next 2 months including 2 announced in the next Newsletter (April edition) rentals units and 1 private home. The company hired for this project is High Definition Roofing, a Questions? local service provider with locations in Duncan, Email us at Nanaimo and Victoria. Check out their website at [email protected] http://roofingvictoria.ca/. Members can expect Or contact us via website at to see High Definition Roofing around the local https://cowichantribes.com/housing/contact-us community in coming months. or find us on Facebook
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Sustainable Housing Let’s
Did you know?
There are over 250 Housing Applications that remain incomplete.
Q: How can I ensure my Housing Application remains in good standing? A: In order to ensure you will be considered for available rental units your Housing Application must beupdated within the past 6 months.
UPDATE PROVIDE LET US KNOW ABOUT CONTACT INFORMATION INCOME VERIFICATION CHANGES TO FAMILY SIZE We need a way to contact you. Examples of income verification Let us know if your family size Make sure your phone number include paystubs, letters from changes because of birth, is up-to-date or, if e-mail is employers, tax records, bank adoption, fostering, a child preferred, let us know. statements or government leaving the home or any other benefit statements. circumstance.
Q: How can I update my information? VISIT https://cowichantribes.com/HousingApplicationto update your Application Your Housing Application is important to us. If you have any questions about the housing application form, an existing application or if you need help filling out an application, we are here to help. Ask us your questions at https://cowichantribes.com/HousingApplication/Housing-Contact-Us
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Sustainable Housing SPRING CLEANING Keeping your Utility Areas Clear
It’s important to remember to keep your utility area(s) clear and free from debris or other household items. All utility area(s) in homes need to be easily accessible at all times.
DO NOT BLOCK FURNANCES, HOT WATER TANK, FUSE BOXES OR ANY OTHER HOUSEHOLD UTILITY SPACES
Utility areas need to be easily Tenants are required to keep utility Keeping areas clear, clean and accessible for maintenance areas free and clear to ensure free of debris is a best practice workers and service compliance with their Rental for helping to manage pests in technicians. If the area is not Agreement. Private homeowners your household. Protect your clear, the worker cannot do are strongly encouraged to keep home against unwanted damage their job properly and has a these areas clear as it is considered by maintaining a clean and right to refuse the work. a health and safety issue. sanitary environment.
Tenants are reminded of mandatory annual Gas Furnace Maintenance scheduled in the near future. Please keep furnace area clear for scheduled maintenance. A Property Team member will be in touch to schedule your visit from a service technician.
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Sustainable Housing Fighting Moisture Damage in your Home
Clean areas with any existing mold. Vacuum and clean regularly to remove possible sources of mold growth. Pay special attention to bathrooms and the kitchen, areas of your home that produce a lot of moisture.
Obtain home or contents insurance with flood coverage. Talk to your insurance If your home has an attic, provider about your risk and additional steps make sure it is properly you can take to protect your home. insulated and ventilated.
Do not store materials such as paper, books, clothes, or other possible sources of food for mold in humid parts of your home (crawl space or attic).
Make sure that your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris that may block the flow of water from your roof. Make sure the area under your If you have a clothes dryer, Repair water leaks in your make sure it is vented to the downspouts is properly graded roof, windows or doors as outdoors (and has solid pipe so that rainwater from the roof soon as possible. venting). flows away from your foundation. Splash blocks can In the kitchen and bathroom, open windows or help rainwater to flow in the use exhaust fans when cooking or canning. Exhaust fans should be vented to the outdoors proper direction. If necessary, (not to the attic or crawl space). extend your downspouts. If you have water problems in your basement or crawl space, clean up affected areas as quickly as possible and take immediate steps to resolve the source of the problem.
Make sure other areas around your foundation are graded so that rainwater does not flow toward the house. Do not put gardens or plants too close to your foundation so that watering them could cause water to flow toward your house. If you water your lawn with a sprinkler, make sure the waterdoes not hit your house or the area next to the foundation. Quw’utsun Newsletter | 24
Operations & Maintenance
Operations & Maintenance Department Phone: 236-800-5071 MARCH 2021
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
1 2 3 4 5 GARBAGE RECYCLING GARBAGE COMPOST
8 9 10 11 12 GARBAGE INDUSTRIAL RECYCLING GARBAGE COMPOST
15 16 17 18 19 GARBAGE RECYCLING GARBAGE COMPOST
22 23 24 25 26 GARBAGE INDUSTRIAL RECYCLING GARBAGE COMPOST
29 31 GARBAGE RECYCLING
Garbage must be at the CURBSIDE before 8:00 am. NO CLOTHES, BLANKETS, LEAVES, BLACKBERRY BUSH- Ensure your garbage is not behind vehicles or left on ES and FISH GUTS/BONES in garbage bags. your porch. All garbage bags MUST BE “TIED”, if not tied will be Garbage truck does not make any return trips. left behind. 3 bag limit (green stickers must be visible). NO RIPPED garbage bags, must re-bag garbage. Extra Green Stickers $3 each. RAIN makes the bags heavy or water logged– cover or NO ORANGE OR CLEAR INDUSTRIAL BAGS will be ac- close lid on garbage bin. cepted COMPOST must be at Curbside before 8:00 am
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Operations & Maintenance
If you need help… ...Can they find you?
Street signs are important in emergency situations.If you no- STOTLOU tice a sign that is damaged, missing or covered by branches, please contact the Operations & Maintenance Department immediately. Stolen signs must be re- ported to police
Cowichan Tribes will replace road signs if they are unreadable.
House numbers allow emergency responders to find you as quickly as possible. Visible house numbers can mean the difference be- 5 7 6 0 tween life and death. House numbers should be visible from the street from ei- ther direction during the day and night.
House address numbers are the home owners responsibility for private homes; Housing department if it is a Rental Unit.
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Membership & Tobacco Tax
Jen Charlie - Membership Administrator/IRA Samantha Wilson - Membership Assistant Tylia James -Membership Intake Worker/ Tobacco Tax Clerk
Status Registration The next deadline is July 9, 2021. ANNOUNCEMENT Cheques/direct deposit will be on July Status registration applications are 16, 2021 . Membership Rules Amendments available on the ISC website OR you The Membership Rules Amendments can request one be mailed to you. Secure Certificate of Indian Project Working Group meetings are Please email member- currently postponed in accordance to Status (SCIS) [email protected]. the Cowichan Tribes COVID Policy.
Once complete they can be mailed to: SCIS Applications are available upon We would like to say Huy ch q’u to Cowichan Tribes Membership De- request and could be mailed to you by the Membership Dept. Applica- Hilda Paige for her hard work on the partment (Confidential) tions are also available on the ISC Membership Rules Amendments Pro- 5760 Allenby Road website. ject these past couple years as the Community Engagement Coordinator Duncan, BC V9L 5J1 All applications can be mailed directly and wish her the best in her new role to the SCIS processing Unit (Address Membership as Communications Coordinator in the is on the Application) The Membership Committee Lulumexun Department. We encourage you to use the SCIS meetings are postponed until further Jen Charlie, Membership Administra- Photo app which is free of charge on notice in accordance to the Cowichan tor will continue working on the pro- any mobile device. Tribes COVID Policy. ject and will be updating the commu- Please do not forget to include the Membership is accepting application nity on future Community engage- Guarantor Form and Photocopy of by mail-in only. ments. In the meantime please go to your valid ID. the Cowichan Tribes website and take Tobacco Tax 2020 a look at the current Cowichan Tribes If you missed the Dec. and Jan. distri- Membership Rules. butions there is another date ap- Happy Birthday https://cowichantribes.com/member- proaching. The next deadline is April services/indian-registry-and-band- to the 449 9,2021 and Distribution is April 16, membership 2021 Cowichan
members with Questions? TTHI’HWUM TSEEP EMAIL:
Birthdays in March! MEMBERSHIP @COWICHANTRIBES.COM
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Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum - Culture & Education Quw’utsun Smuneem News
Welcome Back Quw’utsun Smuneem Elementary staff are excited to see students back in school! It was a long two months of staying still and doing our part to help flatten the curve. We sure missed children in the school! I know that it is difficult to teach online and staff did an amazing job at listening to families and keeping in touch with students for learning opportunities! Thank you to all the families for supporting your children with the online learning. It is difficult to navigate through the different structures. I want to acknowledge you all for the hard work you did to support student learning!
New COVID Safety Measures Quw’utsun Smuneem Elementary is working closely with Cowichan Tribes pandemic response team to ensure that our COVID safety includes the new updated BC Education updates. A new updated restart plan will be going home outlining the changes and expectations to ensure staff, student and family safety. Staff and Students will be required to complete a self-health check before coming into the school. Staff will be required to use a mask at all times unless they are sitting at their desk, behind a barrier, or eating. Students aren’t required to wear masks unless parents want their child to wear a mask- Please let us know if you would like your child wearing their mask at all times. Please ensure to review the updated restart plan when it is sent home.
Outdoor Learning Program Students will be learning outdoors more than before our online learning took place. Please ensure that students are dressed for the weather. Include a spare change of clothes to be able to change into if they get wet. Guests and Fieldtrips will begin to take place outdoors. QSE staff are working hard to clear out the trail for student learning to take place in the back of the school. Staff are working on providing a covered area for student learning and have an area for guests to come share their ex- pertise with students.
Registration Reminder Please contact the school and request a registration form for next year if your child is returning next year. For Kindergarten to Grade 2 we offer both Hul’q’umi’num’ Immersion and English with Hul’q’umi’num’ language and culture imbedded in the curriculum and scheduled lessons. For Grade 3 & 4 we offer English with Hul’q’umi’num’ lan- guage and culture imbedded in the curriculum and scheduled lessons.
Huy tseep q’u Angela Rice, Principle
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Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum - Culture & Education
Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum Culture and Education Department
2:00 p.m. Early Dismissal CLOSED SPRNG BREAK & CLOSURE March 12, 2021 Spring Break March 15, 2021 to March 15, 2021 to Spring Break March 12 to March 26 March 26, 2021 March 26, 2021
Queen of Angels Duncan Christian School School District 79
Last day for academic penalty Post-Secondary Scholarship & Bursary Opportunities -free withdrawal Wednesday - Irving K. Barber - Chief Joe Mathias March 31 - BC Hydro - NIB Trust Fund Vancouver Island University - New Relationship Trust Fund
The Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum team is Upcoming Event: Community Forum (March available to assist in regards to information, 2021) supports, resources, concerns and any gen- Details: An engagement and information ses- eral inquiries about the department and how sion with the Education Department we can support Quw’utsun parents/guardians Date and Time: To be determined, more infor- and students mation to follow
K-12 Team Post Secondary Team Audrey Best, K-12 Advisor Holly Charlie, Post-Secondary Advisor [email protected] [email protected] Chris Modeste, K-12 Advisor [email protected] Sarah Campbell, Post Secondary Administrative Assistant
Sophia Elliott, Educational Counsellor [email protected] [email protected]
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Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum - Culture & Education Indigenous Student Internship Program 2021 Summer Student
Address: Various Locations, British Columbia, Canada Employment Type: Student or New Grad - Campus Recruitment Only Career Level: Student Job Application Deadline: 03/31/2021 Posted Date: 02/04/2021
What is the opportunity?
RBC’s National Indigenous Student Internship Program aims to help students who self-identify as Indigenous/ Aboriginal (First Nations, Inuit, Metis), develop the skills and network needed to build their career in banking. Be a part of an exciting four month experience which gives you exposure to a specific functional area of the bank in Fi- nance, Operations, Advice Centre, Audit, Risk Management, Retail/Commercial Banking, Capital Markets and Technol- ogy. Our program is designed to hone in on your skills, explore your strengths, and build a career you want.
How it works:
You will have our dedicated indigenous recruiters answer all of your application questions: indigenous- [email protected] A mentor can be assigned to you to help you learn and grow You will have the opportunity to connect and network with your fellow students as well as our Royal Eagles em- ployee resource groups through various Indigenous Initiatives and events at RBC
What’s in it for you?
We thrive on the challenge to be our best, progressive thinking to keep growing, and working together to deliver trusted advice to help our clients thrive and communities prosper. We care about each other, reaching our potential, making a difference to our communities, and achieving success that is mutual.
Inclusion and Equal Opportunity Employment:
RBC is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We are pleased to consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, region, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veterans, status, Indigenous/Aboriginal status/non-status or any other legally protect- ed factors.
For more information about this opportunity or to apply: Gotoinfo.ca/RBC-Internship
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Flood Response
Cowichan Tribes Flood Response 2021
Flood 2020 update There is nothing more unstoppable than when people come together. Through the Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) there has been twelve homes in the community that were able to receive financial support to help repair flood damages from the Flood in 2020. Happy home owners were either provided with support and direction to have their homes repaired or they received the DFA funds to do the work themselves. As of today there are two homes to complete with the DFA funds. We welcome feedback, questions or if you would like to speak to one of us directly please see information below. Flood Risk The Cowichan and Koksilah Rivers are down and there is no immediate flood risk but that does not mean we’re out of danger for the season. There is a substantial snowpack high in the mountains and a significant rainfall on top could result in major runoff and high river flows. Take this break in the weather to assess yourflood resiliency. If you have not already done so, take a closer look at BC’s Flood Preparedness information at: https:// www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/preparedbc/know-your- hazards/floods Take care, be safe, and keep an eye on the weather forecast!
Cowichan Tribes remains on essential services, however, the Flood Team continues to work remotely from home and will follow up to help you as best we can. To Contact Us:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 250-715-3333 (to leave a message).
“As human beings it is time to take responsibility for the power of our Intelligence and use the power of our intelli- gence to think coherently. This isn't about whether we can or we can't. This is about whether we will or we won't”. John Trudell
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Flood Response Quamichan Emergency Erosion Repair The January 2nd flood resulted in bank erosion across from the Quamichan Big House threatening the road structure and, con- sequently, risking to cut off access to the Quamichan West community. An emergency funding request was submitted to Emergency Management British Columbia (EMBC) and it was quickly approved. Project Team We raise our hands to the engineers from Northwest Hydraulic Consultants Ltd, contractor Matt T Excavating Ltd, and environ- mental monitor Ken Elliot. As a team, we were able to coordi- nate a design and emergency repair in short order. Timing Area of erosion, prior to repair facing upstream Construction works were initiated on Tuesday, January th19 (northwest). Note cottonwood tree centre-left, this nd and completed the following Friday, January 22 . used to be the edge of the river. The water shown Next Steps below and right of the tree represents the eroded zone. Note the log jam formed on the upstream The work completed to-date is considered Phase I of II. Phase II side of the cottonwood tree. is planned to be completed in the summer when the river flows are low to secure the embankment protection works and also address the log jam that has formed in the same location. Planned River Modifications We are reviewing the river channel and gravel deposits in this area to try and identify measures that will reduce future poten- tial erosion to the riverbank along Quamichan Road. This re- quires careful design and river modeling to ensure that what- ever improvements are made at this location do not cause is- sues in other areas.
Email: [email protected] Cowichan members Eric Jones (left) and Ken Elliott Questions or comments? or call 250-715-3333. The Flood (right) on the last day of the emergency repairs. Team is working remotely from home during this pan- Note log jam on upstream side of cottonwood tree demic rest assured we will help you the best we can. (left side of Eric’s shoulder) planned to be removed in the summer of 2021 when the river is low.
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Lulumexun - Lands & Governance
Conservation Corner: Chinook Edition Stth’aqwi’ | Chinook | Oncorhynchus tschawytscha
Life of Chinook Salmon Chinook salmon, a.k.a. Spring salmon, return ahead of other salmon in the Spring, in addition to having fall runs. Some Chinook can weigh up to and over 100lbs, but the average size caught in the Cowichan River are 15-25lbs. Their average life span is between 4-7 years, and they can spawn anywhere between 2-7 years old, with the average age of Cowichan River Chinook being 3 years old. After Chinook eggs hatch in the rivers, they stay in the freshwater for several months, which makes maintaining the Cowichan River’s Chinook habitat important. Ensuring that the Chinook alevin, fry and smolts have the place and food in the river are integral to their survival, so they do not prematurely move into the estuary where they have a decreased likelihood to reach adulthood and return to spawn. Chinook are susceptible to the changes of climate change, because they prefer cold water that is highly oxygenated, whereas the trend of climate change is that wa- ters are getting warmer and less oxygenated. Chinook require complex habitats with adequate water flow levels in the river, proper temperatures, diverse foliage– both for cover/protection against predators and for diet, and quality gravel spawning beds.
Photo courtesy of mycowichanvalley.com: Chinook Salmon in Cowichan River
Cowichan Tribes’ Conservation of Chinook Salmon Chinook salmon, Stth’aqwi’, have been important to our Mustimuhw since time immemorial and for decades, Cowi- chan Tribes has been working on protecting them from the losses they have suffered in the last 150 years. Chinook salmon stocks have been on the decline since the 1930’s, due to pollution contamination, habitat destruction and commercial overfishing. In fact, the Spring runs were once the largest Chinook run in the Cowichan River, and now they are hard to find. The most dire state of Chinook stocks was a recent 2009 stock crash where there were only about 500 mating pairs of Chinook salmon in the Cowichan River. Part of the conservation efforts have included re- building with the Cowichan Hatchery, and Cowichan River habitat restoration, with approximately 7kms of side channel habitat restored to ensure the Chinook have adequate water flow levels and adequate habitat conditions.
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Lulumexun - Lands & Governance
Conservation Corner: Chinook Edition Stth’aqwi’ | Chinook | Oncorhynchus tschawytscha
Cowichan Tribes Conservation of Chinook Salmon Continued For optimal survival, Chinook require a good water flow level in the river, and diverse foliage to create complex habitat for predator protection, shelter during the day, and vegetation for their diet. To support this need, live- staking has been done alongside the Cowichan River. Live-staking involves green 1 meter stakes of cottonwood, willow, alder and dogwood being “planted” in the ground to grown and provide a food source and habitat. If you ever notice these stakes while you’re out on the Cowichan River, make sure the leave them, because they are in- tentional and meant to contribute to the conservation of our Cowichan Chinook salmon! Creating and maintaining partnerships are crucial for Cowichan River Chinook conservation and Cowichan Tribes is partnered with several organizations for this purpose including, the University of Victoria, the BC Conservation Foundation, and the Cowichan Watershed Board. Our efforts have been successful, as witnessed by the rise in Cowichan River Chinook stocks, in a time when the southern provincial trend is population decline.
Source: Oregon State University Photo courtesy of mycowichanvalley.com: Chinook Adult, Counting Fence, Cowichan River. Chinook are the preferred food source of Southern Chinook Salmon in Cowichan River Source: Pacific Salmon Commission Resident Killer Whales
Cultural Significance of Chinook Salmon Since time immemorial, Chinook have been an important food source, and of great spiritual importance as well. The skill and care required to be successful in catching enough Chinook came with acclaim, respect and reverence since it meant you could provide for your family and community. Chinook used to be so large, we could use their skin to make waterproof leather rain gear! Having this rain gear was also indicative of a person’s skill, because the best fishing gear meant having the ability to spend more time dedicated to fishing, therefore providing for your family and community.
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Lulumexun - Lands & Governance
Conservation Corner: Chinook Edition Stth’aqwi’ | Chinook | Oncorhynchus tschawytscha
For more info on Chinook salmon: DFO website Cowichan Watershed Board
Colour the Chinook!
Photo courtesy of mycowichanvalley.com: Chinook Salmon in Cowichan River
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Lalum’utul’ Smun’eem - Child & Family Services Skw’ami’lhum “Watching Over, Caring for another person’s child”
We would like to meet with you to discuss your interest in this rewarding opportunity. Training offered and
Have you thought about opening your home to a child who Compensation provided!! needs a home? Have you thought about giving back to the community? Becoming a mentor for a child in need? 1.250.746.1002
The children are our teachers, but sometimes they need a wider circle of support for their life’s journey. Lalum’utul’ Smun’eem ~ 5766 Allenby Please consider making an application to become a Caregiver Road, Duncan, BC V9L 5J1 with Lalum’utul’ Smun’eem Child and Family Services. As a Phone: 250.746.1002 Delegated Aboriginal Agency, we provide services to families Fax: 250.746.7745 and children residing on Cowichan Tribes land. We continue to seek Caregivers who are able to meet the cultural, social, Website: www.cowichantribes.com emotional and physical needs of our Cowichan Children in Care.
We would like to support you in completing the entire pro- cess required for you to become a Caregiver for Lalum'utul' Smun'eem Child Family Services. Please contact our office at 250-746-1002, and ask to speak with any member of the Sup- port Services team as soon as possible. Lalum’utul’ Smun’eem Child and Family Services would like to acknowledge and raise our hands in thanks to caregivers who already provide care for our Cowichan children and youth. We admire your commitment, caring, understanding, nurtur- ing, love, guidance, support, teachings and patience you give Patricia Thomas—Manager and share to our children and youth. Lori Guerin—Social Worker Victoria Mills—Social Worker Jennifer Kidd-Social Worker Huy ch q’u! (thank you)
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Lalum’utul Smun’eem - Child & Family Services Skw’ami’lhum “Watching Over, Caring for another person’s child”
We offer as a reminder Virtual Training opportunity If you are trying to reach your social worker, Talking to (Pre) Teens About Sexting (ON ZOOM) Cost is $27.54 please call the front desk at Lalum’utul’ Thursday, March 11, 2021 @ 6:30 p.m. Smun’eem Child and Family Services 250- Sexting refers to the sending of sexual messages, photos or videos us- 746-1002 and ask to be connected. ing a mobile device. This workshop is for anyone who works with or raises kids ages 6-18. (Pre) teens 12+ can attend accompanied by an adult. Submitting expenses for kilometers: To register, go here...https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/talking-to-pre- Please include each child you are claiming teens-about-sexting-on-zoom-tickets-126679201903? for including which days, the address aff=ebdssbonlinesearch starting from and to, each day, as well as the child’s Social workers name. Webinar - Making sense of Trauma: Practical Tools for Responding to Children and Youth. Anyone can register to take this free on-line training at any time, the link is: http://makingsenseoftrauma.com/
The Youth Recreation Committee The Committee accepts funding applications. All Cowichan Tribes Youth aged 24 years and under are eligible to apply for up to In case of any emergency $1,500.00 per fiscal year for: (a) registration fee sponsorship in recog- nized sports and recreational activities and/or to (b) support their par- After regular office hours, Caregivers ticipation in up to two competitions with a funding maximum based call the Emergency “Centralized on the geographical location of the competition. For a full application Screening” Duty Worker (MCFD): package please see: Youth Services : Cowichan Tribes 1.800.663.9122 Caregiver Standard B2 Reportable Incidents: For non-emergencies, please leave a If the social worker is unavailable, the report is made to another social voice mail message: 250.746.1002. worker or the supervisor in the same district office. After regular office hours, the report is made to an After Hours social worker. After Hours social workers are available 24 hours per day, seven days per week. Lalum’utul’ Smun’eem 5766 Allenby Road, Duncan, BC V9L 5J1 In Standard B.2.3 the caregiver is responsible to notify us of a variety of incidents. This is in order that the Resource Social Worker can pro- Phone: 250.746.1002 vide support to you in planning for the short- and long-term viability Fax: 250.746.7745 of the placement for the child or youth. In order for us to provide support to you we need to hear from you. Please reach out. Website: www.cowichantribes.com
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Lalum’utul Smun’eem - Child & Family Services Skw’ami’lhum “Watching Over, Caring for another person’s child”
Remember also to reach out to your supports: Reminders about Provincial After-hours line, call 1-888—495-4440. Weekdays: 4:00pm to 12:45am, COVID-19 Guidelines Statutory Holidays and weekends: 8:00am to 12:45am. Foster Parent Support Service Society: (FPSSS) Toll Free: 1-888-922-8437. Monday Babysitting forms: to Thursday 9:00-4:00pm, Friday 9:00 to 1:00pm. Please insert the KUU-US services are for First Nations, by First Nations. Call 1-800-KUU-US17 (588- child’s name, the day 8717) Youth Line/250-723-2040 or Adult Line/250-723-4050. required and the de- For teen on line support: The Foundry offers young people ages 12-24 health and scription of why you are wellness resources. having a babysitter. Hope for Wellness Helpline provides immediate, culturally safe, telephone crisis Please ensure that the intervention, 24 hours a day, seven days a week in English and French, and upon re- Resource and child’s so- quest in Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut. cial worker is aware you Phone: 1-855-242-3310 are using a babysitter Kids Help Phone is supporting youth 24/7 and through a partnership with We due to COVID we want Matter, supporting Indigenous youth through text, phone and linking with youth to ensure everyone is programs. They have also developed a variety of resources related to COVID 19 safe. among other topics.
Phone: 1-800-668-6868 · Text: 686868 The BC Federation of Foster Parent Associations 1-800-663-9999. Face to face visits: Lalum’utul’ Smun’eem Kwun'atsustal counseling: Ts'ewulhtun Health Center: 250-746-6168. is encouraging zoom Vancouver Island Crisis Line: 24/7: 1888-494-3888/Crisis Line Text: 250-800-3806 (6 and telephone visits, pm to 10 pm). with the exception of The Crisis Line Association of BC: No area code required 310-6789. If you are hav- court ordered visits. ing issues with a child after 4:30pm, tell them you are a caregiver with our agency and they will get the message to our agency. Each case is individual.
Should you suspect that you, or anyone in your family, may be effected by COVID 19, please contact your health care provider or call 811, or 711 if you are deaf/or Huy ch q’u! Thank you for all the hard of hearing. Please call toll free at 1-833-784-4397. Get answers to general great work that you all are doing questions from 4 am to 9 pm. in this critical time in supporting our children and each other. Quw’utsun Newsletter | 38
Lalum’utul Smun’eem - Child & Family Services Cowichan Tribes Child and Family Wellness Legislation Project
Questions and Answers
Q: What will it mean for Cowichan Tribes to have jurisdiction over child and family services? A: Cowichan Tribes will have its own laws that govern child and family services and will no longer have to adhere to Provincial laws, standards and policies. Our laws will follow our teachings and will be administered through a Cowi- chan Tribes governance entity.
Q: How long before Cowichan Tribes actually assumes jurisdiction over its own child and family services? A: Cowichan Tribes gave the Federal Government notice in October of 2020, and this triggered a 12 month period whereby Cowichan Tribes can negotiate a coordination agreement that outlines the financial needs of the Nation as well as the relationship between Canada and Cowichna Tribes. A lot of work needs to be done before Cowichan Tribes can fully implement our laws, and it is possible for us to extend the 12 month period at the request of Chief and Council.
Q: What are Cowichan Laws? A: Snuw’uyulh – teachings that help us to live a good life Ways of life including the application of cultural teachings Teachings and Stories are important since they can outline and describe our legal principles and how these are drawn upon in our everyday lives
The Cowichan Child and Family Wellness legislation Project is continuing to develop the Cowichan law that will guide how our Nation will support families. Our intent is that our laws will replace provincial and federal laws dealing with child and family services and will guide our Lalum’utul’ Smun’eem Child and Family Services in doing their work in the future.
Q: How do I contribute my input into this project? A: The Cowichan Tribes Child Wellness Legislation Project is working towards developing a community engagement sub committee and workplan for engaging and communicating about the project’s progress. Stay tuned for more information on this topic as it is important to hear from community. Quw’utsun Newsletter | 39
Khowutzun Development Corporation
Cowichan Environmental Leadership Means Land Stewardship, Building Careers and Economic Stability
A new low-carbon sustainable fuel pellet facility is under development by Cowichan Tribes that will reduce area landfill usage by up to 90% and provide a clean, sustainable high-energy fuel for use by industrial and power genera- tion customers in the region.
“With the new WastAway technology facility, we will convert our garbage into a marketable alternative fuel, cre- ating 25+ good-paying, technical careers at our facility,” said Khowutzun Development Corp (KDC) CEO Jodee Dick. “This is a high-tech automated process with the potential for our members to be trained for long-term career op- portunities. The development of this facility will provide Cowichan Tribes the opportunity to be a leader in waste management and will mean a huge step forward as stewards of our land. A 90% diversion rate and a clean alterna- tive fuel source is a win/win for the Cowichan Valley as a whole.”
“Our future generations will benefit from technology choices, such as WastAway, and Cowichan Tribes will continue to set the bar for environmentally friendly options to enhance, protect and foster good long-term resource manage- ment,” Dick added.
There will be no incineration or combustion of garbage at the WastAway facility. The waste will be quickly pro- cessed (less than 30 minutes) through a patented autoclave system into a clean, safe, fuel product. Valuable metals will be removed by automated equipment and sold to increase revenue.
The current system design will pay its own financing and operating expenses, and also provide a source of new an- nual revenue for Cowichan Tribes, to support ongoing community development efforts, creating economic stability within members’ families and the overall community.
“Our priorities when we started looking at alternative technologies to manage our municipal waste were to drasti- cally cut landfill use, create jobs, create careers and enhance economic stability within our community as a whole” said Chief William Seymour. “Now that we have found the right technology, we also have a development partner who understands and shares our values. Our Economic Development Board members have spent months ensuring we complete the due diligence necessary, to ensure that this is the right fit for the Cowichan Valley and the right fit for Cowichan Tribes.”
Negotiations are underway with waste haulers to sustainably utilize area MSW (Municipal Solid Waste) currently being trucked hundreds of miles to a community in the United States. Those contracts will allow Cowichan Tribes to take responsibility for the waste generated while putting revenue from tipping fees and recycling to work locally. Several industrial solid fuel users have indicated substantial interest in the clean, high-energy product as an offset to wood, coal and other fossil fuels. Those customers also will gain the sustainability and environmental benefits the low-carbon fuel source provides. Quw’utsun Newsletter | 40
Khowutzun Development Corporation
“All aspects of the WastAway system, have been thoroughly vetted by third party experts to assure compliance and performance,” Dick said. “We know it is critical to have independent assessments, and we have put together a team that has the expertise to work with the Provincial Government, industry, funders and the public as a whole to en- sure that this project is respectful to our environment, to our membership and will be a successful long-term way for us to manage our municipal waste.”
“This will be a great source of pride for Cowichan Tribe,” said Chief William Seymour. “Respecting and caring for our land is what it means to be Cowichan.
WastAway information:
Digital e-brochure regarding waste conversion: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/673267/
Digital e-brochure regarding fuel usage: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/1039800/
KHOWUTZUN DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION PO Box 967, 200 Cowichan Way Duncan, British Columbia V9L 3Y2 Canada PHONE: 250-746-8350 FAX: 250-746-8375
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Children’s Coloring Page
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