Dāne Spring Newsletter — 2021
Tahltan NationOpposesDoubleview GoldCorps’Operations Tahltan Nation Text AlertService. COVID-19 Update ANNOUNCEMENTS 2020 Achievements . Save theDates and Misinformation News Release – Tahltan NationUnited Against Hate, Fear Message from the Vice President Message from thePresident INTRODUCTION Tahltan Central Government &Skeena Investment Agreement Dease Lake AirportUpgrades Amanda Quash–GoodzamaFamily Representative NEW BOARD MEMBERS/STAFF New Tahltans /Condolences. Tahltan Predator Policy Remains inEffect . Tahltan Territory MountEdzizaConservancy (SpectrumProperty) . Tahltan Stewardship Initiative (TSI) TAHLTAN STEWARDSHIP INITIATIVE TahltanWorks becomes Tahltan OnTrack . Tahltan OnTrack . TAHLTAN ONTRACK Ryma Aneliunas–GISAnalyst Ursula Abramczyk –Archivist Culture &Heritage–Sandra Marion Language –Pamela Labonte . Fisheries –CheriFrocklage . Wildlife –LanceNagwan Lands –NalaineMorin DIRECTORS’ TSI Projects Project TeamThe TSI The TSI Steering Committee . Employment &Contracting –AnnBall Education & Training –Cassandra Puckett . Dease Lake Community –Freda Campbell Membership &Genealogy–ShannonFrank . Inspiring Young Tahltans– IsaacEtzerza & AliciaAsp Healthy Active Tahltans – CagneyEtzerza& Teagan Young . Culture –SheldonDennis. . Elder –BillMcPhee. . PERSONAL PROFILES TNDC Update UPDATES Tahltan Forestry Update . . . . REPORTS ...... 80 60 56 85 49 38 39 36 63 93 29 82 44 83 53 79 33 67 97 23 75 19 61 91 37 73 77 13 41 12 21 11 4 3 1 5 7 Contents 1910 Declaration of the Tahltan Tribe WE THE UNDERSIGNED MEMBERS OF THE TAHLTAN TRIBE, speaking for ourselves, and our entire tribe, hereby make known to all whom it may concern, that we have heard of the Indian Rights movement among the Indian tribes of the Coast, and of the southern interior of B.C. Also, we have read the Declaration made by the chiefs of the southern interior tribes at Spences Bridge on the 16th July last, and we hereby declare our complete agreement with the demands of same, and with the position taken by the said chiefs, and their people on all the questions stated in the said Declaration, and we furthermore make known that it is our desire and intention to join with them in the fight for our mutual rights, and that we will assist in the furtherance of this object in every way we can, until such time as all these matters of moment to us are finally settled. We further declare as follows:
FIRSTLY – We claim the sovereign right to all the country of our tribe—this country of ours which we have held intact from the encroachments of other tribes, from time immemorial, at the cost of our own blood. We have done this because our lives depended on our country. To lose it meant we would lose our means of living, and therefore our lives. We are still, as heretofore, dependent for our living on our country, and we do not intend to give away the title to any part of same without adequate compensation. We deny the B.C. government has any title or right of ownership in our country. We have never treatied with them, nor given them any such title. (We have only very lately learned the B.C. government makes this claim, and that it has for long considered as its property all the territories of the Indian tribes in B.C.)
SECONDLY – We desire that a part of our country, consisting of one or more large areas (to be selected by us), be retained by us for our own use, said lands and all thereon to be acknowledged by the government as our absolute property. The rest of our tribal land we are willing to relinquish to the B.C. government for adequate compensation.
THIRDLY – We wish it known that a small portion of our lands at the mouth of the Tahltan river, was set apart a few years ago by Mr. Vowell as an Indian reservation. These few acres are the only reservation made for our tribe. We may state we never applied for the reservation of this piece of land, and we had no knowledge why the government set it apart for us, nor do we know exactly yet.
FOURTHLY – We desire that all questions regarding our lands, hunting, fishing, etc., and every matter concerning our welfare, be settled by treaty between us and the Dominion and B.C. governments.
FIFTHLY – We are of the opinion it will be better for ourselves, also better for the governments and all concerned, if these treaties are made with us at a very early date, so all friction, and misunderstanding between us and the whites may be avoided, for we hear lately much talk of white settlements in the region and the building of railways, etc., in the near future.
Signed at Telegraph Creek, B.C., this eighteenth day of October, nineteen hundred and ten, by NANOK, Chief of the Tahltans NASTULTA, alias Little Jackson GEORGE ASSADZA, KENETL, alias Big Jackson And eighty other members of our tribe. TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Message from the President
our Tahltan members throughout 16 communities in BC, Yukon, and Alberta each year. During these meetings I was able to closely connect with many of you to gain valuable insight which has always helped me better understand the priorities and needs of our people. I pray we get to continue those visits again soon and look forward to the day when we can gather and celebrate many cultural events and various achievements we have accomplished over the past couple of years.
As our TCG Team continues to grow by hiring more talented people, my position, and priorities as the TCG President has shifted and adapted each year. When I started the TCG had four employees working out of the Dease Lake Office, and today we have over 30 employees living in several locations, mostly in Northern British Columbia. As the TCG Team continues to grow we have become increasingly sophisticated and assertive with the implementation Chad Norman Day Tahltan Nation, of our Tahltan rights and title with others. Each of our TCG departments will touch on their recent successes, President, Tahltan Central Government As a new Spring season is upon us and we continue to ongoing initiatives and future plans and goals. I am live through this challenging time, I would like to applaud, so grateful for our TCG Team and to all those Tahltan once again, the efforts of all those individuals across members and allies who choose to collaborate and the Province, Country and the World who are working support us in a good way. hard to get us through this COVID-19 pandemic. Some high-level political goals I have been diligently We also are dealing with some additional challenges pursuing for Tahltan Territory include advocating for in Tahltan Territory as the residents of Telegraph Creek the Province to improve the following: continue to feel the negative impacts from the fires in 2019. 1 . safety measures and infrastructure on Highway 37 and throughout our communities; For weeks now there have been ongoing landslides which 2 . co-management and additional investment to have made the Telegraph Creek Road very dangerous ensure we have a first-class wildlife management and impossible to navigate without significant work and regime someday soon; assistance. I want to commend Chief Carmen McPhee, the 3 . an overhaul and shut down of the jade and placer Tahltan Band Council, the Province and all our industry mining industries until Tahltan benefits and laws are implemented; partners who are collaborating and working around the 4 . a renewal for a 3 year agreement between the clock to address these issues and to keep our community Province and the 3 Nations (Tahltan, Kaska, Tlingit). functional and safe through these difficult times. Given the isolated region of our homeland, coupled As the TCG prepares for our second online Annual with the relatively low population numbers, we as General Assembly due to COVID-19, I continue to be Tahltan leaders and people are often in a disadvantaged saddened that I cannot connect with our members political situation. Since the Province rarely understands in their communities. TCG takes great pride in the our distinct challenges, they often fail to create communication efforts we have made as a government important changes in a timely fashion. Therefore, it is and I always enjoyed the annual visits we made with important we as Tahltan people and communities go
1 MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
above and beyond to create and assert certain less collaborative and lacking accountability. changes ourselves. One of my favourite quotes which As a result, the TCG felt it was time to have this often guides my thinking and approach with other issue properly addressed. governments is, “Governments do not create change; they react to change.” So, we must keep working In recent months, the TNDC Shareholders signed the TNDC together to create the improvements we want to see Protocol Agreement and chose to rejoin the TNDC Board in our territory and the TCG will keep advocating with outside governments and industries to work with of Directors. These were large steps, but they are quickly us as we continue building our capacity as Tahltan leading to positive changes, both internally and externally, individuals, families, communities, governments and for the relationships between TNDC and its Shareholders, as a strong and united Tahltan Nation. industry partners and its workers who built and continue to I want to personally encourage all our Tahltan hunters, carry this corporation. who are willing and able to follow all our COVID-19 protocols, to assist our declining ungulate populations Large improvements to TNDC are underway and I am by utilizing your cultural rights to harvest predators very excited to help assist our corporate arm in its throughout Tahltan Territory. The TCG’s Predator continued evolution, growth, and success. I want to Incentive Program remains in place throughout 2021 formally welcome TNDC’s interim Chief Executive and our people can collectively help save thousands Officer (CEO), Jamie Gleason, and commend him for of moose, caribou, mountain goat, stone sheep and his dedication to TNDC over the years and for taking on other iconic species, simply by harvesting black his significant new role with the company. bears, grizzly bears, and wolves in key areas. This is particularly true if we go hunting in the Spring season The TCG plans to create a bylaw amendment process while the ungulate mothers and their young are most that will enable our members to propose bylaw vulnerable. My older children and I have set a goal of changes that will then go through a robust review collectively harvesting several predators throughout process before some amendments and/or additions 2021 to help stop or possibly reverse the ongoing trend will be voted on by the Tahltan people. Unlike the of our dwindling ungulate populations. loosely constructed bylaw amendment processes utilized in the past, future TCG bylaw amendments Given the ongoing mismanagement of wildlife by the will be communicated several weeks in advance and Province, we as Tahltans must take certain wildlife all Tahltan people will have an opportunity to support matters into our own hands to improve our food or reject such changes in a democratic, confidential, security, community safety and to ensure our culture and safe process which will allow members to vote survives for future generations. The TCG will continue electronically or in-person, like TCG elections and pushing the Province to improve wildlife management ratification votes. This revamped process is very and our Wildlife Department’s efforts, capacity and exciting as it will enable more Tahltan people to successes continue to grow each year. Thank you to all comfortably participate in important governance and our hunters and partners who have assisted our people, decision-making processes. TCG will communicate communities and governments with our wildlife more about the new bylaw amendment process soon initiatives and progress over the years. Let us keep and we encourage all Tahltans to participate in future working together for the wildlife; they desperately need bylaw amendment processes and decisions. the Tahltan Nation to start managing our ecosystems again as we did for thousands of years. In closing, we always acknowledge the loss of all our beloved Tahltans who recently passed away and pray Internal governance within the TCG and with our for those left behind who work through the grieving Tahltan entities is extremely important and we must process. I want to also welcome and celebrate the navigate these relationships carefully in a way that arrival of all the new Tahltan babies who were born maintains accountability, certainty, and credibility, recently; I hope such children will always remain both internally and with the outside world. All Tahltan healthy, happy, and strongly connected to their Tahltan entities have been established to empower and family, homeland, and culture throughout their lives. help our people and it suits the best interests of the Tahltan Nation if such entities are collaborating in an Mēduh and Nedischā. effective way with each other and our people. The relationship between the Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (TNDC) and its Shareholders (Iskut Band Council, Tahltan Band Council, TCG) was becoming
2 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Message from the Vice President
We have presented 7 newsletters per year for the past 4 years which represents approximately 1,260 pages of information from all the departments within our governmental organization. This does not include our annual meeting (excepted during COVID-19 restrictions), family engagement meetings, and project community engagement meetings.
In the past 4 years, TCG has reported many successes including our last announcement surrounding the creation of the Conservancy which states: “The conservancy is the first step in the multi-year Tahltan Stewardship Initiative (TSI). The goal of the TSI is to bring greater self-determination to the Tahltan Nation and support stewardship on Tahltan Territory”.
If Tahltan people are concerned with staying informed and holding leadership accountable, it would be helpful to connect to the resources we have provided, or by Ken Edzerza A key social skill in our past, was our ability to have reaching out to us individually, rather than promoting accusatory, unsubstantiated language such as, “ …that Vice President, Tahltan dialogues on collective challenges. As modern people, Central Government we have mediums such as Facebook that sometimes act money is OURS not just the TCG Executive and BOD as conversation points. It is important to have common to do with as they wish!”... and, “I am sure they will be understandings when we engage on such platforms. getting some kick back personal contracts for their companies.” This politically driven misinformation only Peter Senge, an international organizational leader has a serves the person who is sharing it and creates divisive tool he calls “Barking and Non-barking dogs”: tensions within our Nation. Compare comments with the real information:
Ȗ Barking dogs: Important and urgent items; “Permanently protecting the cultural and ecological values Ȗ Non-barking dogs: Items that are of strategic of these lands is a remarkable importance, but not urgent; achievement. We congratulate Ȗ Sleeping dogs: Undiscussable issues that no one is the Tahltan Central Government willing to talk about, but that may make it difficult to on their leadership and vision in proceed unless they are raised in conversation . making this outcome a reality,”
So, let’s address the barking dogs (concerns about – Nancy Newhouse, BC Regional Vice President, transparency, accountability, and credibility). Nature Conservancy of Canada .
In the last 4 years, TCG has presented 4 audited For those of us who own dogs, we know how financial statements that were supervised by a Chief annoying and unproductive barking dogs can Financial Officer (CFO) and a finance committee, made be, unless there is really a threat. However, no up of our Tahltan Leaders. matter whether we are dealing with barking dogs, non-barking or sleeping dogs, it is important to develop a respectful dialogue while we do it.
3 MESSAGE FROM THE VICE PRESIDENT · TAHLTAN NATION UNITED AGAINST HATE, FEAR AND MISINFORMATION
NEWS RELEASE Tahltan Nation United Against Hate, Fear and Misinformation
March 9, 2021
The Tahltan Nation is stronger, more economically viable and as unified as we have ever been. Together we are building a powerful Nation, based on the democratic principles, cultural recovery, and collective participation, which our Nation demonstrates in our daily organizational practices. Our Nation is respected and admired for our abilities and achievements.
With every democratically elected government, there will always be those who seek to criticize and undermine. This of course is normal and an acceptable part of democracy; Tahltans have a right to voice their opinions.
However, there are some in our Nation who continue to cross the line. We have and continue to experience politically motivated vandalism, defamation, slander, intimidation, harassment, threats of physical harm, and advocating for the overthrow of our three governments. What is more, there are members of our Nation who continue to spread hate, malicious lies and misinformation that are hurtful and harmful to Tahltans as individuals and the Nation we are building and strengthening together. This shameful behaviour does not reflect the values of the Tahltan Nation and would never be condoned by our ancestors.
We collectively refute in the strongest terms what these individuals in our Nation are doing. Hate, fear, and malicious misinformation have no place in our Nation. We must stand together in the face of hate and we cannot stand for any individual or group seeking to induce insurrection, harm, or violence.
All Tahltan Nation governments are committed to operating in a fair and transparent manner and to meeting the utmost standards of good governance. We will no longer stand by and allow our Nation to be undermined by unlawful behaviour and vindictive individuals and/or groups. Leadership is in contact with the authorities and our respective legal counsels and will respond with the full force of the law moving forward.
4 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
SAVE THE DATES Upcoming holidays and Tahltan events
Ȗ MAY 24: Victoria Day – TCG Closed
Ȗ JUNE 21: National Indigenous Peoples Day – TCG Closed
Ȗ JULY 1: Canada Day – TCG Closed
Ȗ JULY 3: TCG Virtual Annual General Meeting (AGA)
Ȗ AUGUST 2: BC Day – TCG Closed
Ȗ SEPTEMBER 6: Labour Day – TCG Closed
5 SECTION TITLE
6 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021 Together we achieved great things in 2020
TCG EMPLOYEES MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION TNDC PROTOCOL Number of TCG employees Medical Transportation in Tahltan Territory TNDC and its shareholders finalized a business protocol over the past four years: improved. Medevac times decreased from agreement that provides a framework for how the parties 2016 = 8; 2018 = 16; 20.5 hours to 5.3 hours will communicate, share information and conduct 2019 = 25; 2020 = 30. themselves with respect to one another, as well as to establish specific oversight, planning and reporting processes applicable to TNDC.
COVID-19 CONTACT NORTH TREATY 8 CLAIMS Successfully prevented COVID from Partnered with Contact North to open learning reaching our communities, established centres in Dease Lake, Telegraph Creek and Iskut. Supreme Court of Canada denies COVID-19 protocols that set the industry The centers will be open in 2021, thereby creating the Treaty No. 8 Western boundary standard-best practice, first place to get opportunity for all Tahltan members and Community leave applications – Tahltan Central vaccinated starting December 24, 2020 members to access online education and training in Government asserts Treaty No. 8 bands and, Tahltan Nation closes hunting and territory. The BC Government recently announced an have no rights in Tahltan Territory. recreational activity to prevent COVID-19. additional 1.5 million in funding for this pilot project to run another 2 - 3 years.
7 2020 ACHIEVEMENTS
JADE ONTRACK TAHLTAN PREDATOR MANAGEMENT PLAN TCG and the Province have been Tahltan Central Government Initiated the Tahltan Predator Management Plan with a issued an order under Section 7 of launches OnTrack, connecting focus on reducing the influx of predators in Tahltan Territory. the Environment and Land Use Act, Tahltans with the vast array of job Implementation of Tahltan Predator Harvest Incentive initiated prohibiting jade hard rock mining opportunities in Tahltan Territory. for Grizzly Bear, Black Bear and Wolves within Tahltan Territory. decisions in northern BC for 2 years. TahltanWorks becomes OnTrack.
INDUSTRY TRAINING AUTHORITY MOU SHARED PROSPERITY CARIBOU COLLARING PROJECTS AGREEMENT The TCG signed an MOU with the Industry Training Tseneglode and Level Mountain caribou collaring Authority of BC granting the TCG the ability to Signing of Shared Prosperity projects, monitoring herd population demographics, sponsor Tahltan Nation members as apprentices to Agreement between the Tahltan seasonal range use, habitat selection and data on enter into trades training. Nation and the Province. movements between herds and predation rates.
What else did we accomplish?
Among other things: ⃣ Added the TCG Multimedia Department. ⃣ Re-established the TCG Language Department and we continue ⃣ 2020 AME Round Up – TCG and 3Nations lead another successful to build capacity through the restructure phases. Developed Youth Trip to the AME Roundup in Vancouver. We sent 50 youth a multi-year Strategic Language Plan that aligns with the delegates, including 25 Tahltan. Department’s vision and mission. Continued work on year 2 of ⃣ Tahltan Forestry Ltd., a joint company between TNDC and NorthPac the FirstVoices project. Developed and implemented a custom Forestry Group Ltd. completed developing the Forest Stewardship Plan. TCG Mentor Apprentice Program (MAP). ⃣ The TCG Education and Training Department continues to support Tahltan Central Government Rebranded. ⃣ the Tahltan membership in achieving their educational aspirations. ⃣ First Fish and Wildlife Newsletter. Since its inception in 2018, we have experienced increased student ⃣ Began to use text messaging to communicate with members. applications with the most significant increase of 24.5% in the 2020/2021 academic year, with more applications coming in for ⃣ Added the TCG Fisheries Department. the summer semester.
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Announcements 12 11 —COVID-19 Update 19 13 33 29 21 23 Operations
— — — — — — — Remains inEffect & Skeena Investment Agreement Doubleview GoldCorps’ Alert Service Conservancy (SpectrumProperty) TahltanNation Text Tahltan Central Government Tahltan NationOpposes Tahltan Predator Policy Tahltan Territory MountEdziza New Tahltans /Condolences Dease Lake AirportUpgrades
10 TAHLTAN NATION COVID-19 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT UPDATE NEW CHANGES/ADDITIONS TO OUR COVID-19 POLICES & REGULATIONS
As a result of the Province of British Columbia’s announcement on April 22 that further restrictions are necessary to combat COVID-19, the Tahltan EMC has made the decision to reinstate the 14-day self-isolation requirement for those in territory who are returning after essential travel. The following COVID-19 policies and regulations ARE now in place for Tahltan Territory:
First, All current Province-wide restrictions remain Third, Everyone who lives in territory and who in place for Tahltan Territory is returning to territory after essential travel is required to self-isolate for 14-days. Second, Essential travel is limited only to and from Tahltan Territory. Fourth, Stay within your CORE BUBBLE. Your Core Bubble is your immediate household and DOES NOT include extended family who does not live with you.
COVID-19 TESTING
To minimize community spread of COVID-19, if you have symptoms please contact the nearest health centre at once. COVID-19 tests are available at every health centre. Call the health centre and request a test if you experience any symptoms. There are two types of tests available for everyone:
1 NASAL SWAB – Swab takes a sample of mucus from the nasal passage; and
2 GARGLE RINSE – Rinse and gargle with solution to collect samples of saliva.
PLEASE ENSURE YOU DO THE FOLLOWING:
WEAR A MASK COVID-19 TESTING Masks/face coverings are mandatory in all Anyone experiencing any symptoms should community spaces in Dease Lake, Iskut and get tested. Anyone who gets a COVID-19 test Telegraph Creek. Hand sanitizing is required. must remain in isolation while waiting for test results and continue to isolate for the full 14 PHYSICAL DISTANCING days, regardless of test result. Social distancing, 6 feet apart is always required outside of your household. CONTACT TRACING It is every individuals’ responsibility to keep our community and our Elders safe by tracking WASH HANDS REGULARLY your movements and whereabouts. This will be Hand washing, sanitizing regularly, especially useful if contact tracing is necessary. after being in public spaces.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
11 For the most up to date information visit the Tahltan COVID-19 landing page at: tahltan.org/covid-19 TAHLTAN NATION TEXT ALERT SERVICE
TAHLTAN NATION TEXT ALERT SERVICE Connecting our Nation via Text
Communicating important Tahltan-related alerts and advisories through mass text messaging to the Tahltan Nation database .
WHY? 1-855-583-0579
Ȗ We are able to communicate to the TCG invites you to learn about Nation in a quicker, more efficient manner Tahltan-specific job opportunities by attending tonight’s 7pm virtual Ȗ Cost effective medium to communicate OnTrack info session on Zoom: with the Nation ontrack.tahltan.org/webinar Ȗ Texting has by far the best engagement rate of any marketing medium:
• 30% email blast open rate* • People check their phones around 80 times a day
HOW? Ȗ The text “from” number will show as 1-855-583-0579 Ȗ You are already “opted in” from the general Tahltan Nation Member database list Ȗ Examples of text messages include press releases, urgent advisories, and upcoming events .
NEED TO REGISTER? Ȗ If you wish to opt in a new number including you or a family member, please visit: tahltancentralgovernment.wufoo.com formsz1t74qdl1hdqn6r
*30% open rates are based on historic TCG email campaign data.
12 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
NEWS RELEASE Tahltan Nation Opposes Doubleview Gold Corps’ Operations
DEASE LAKE, BC, March 17, 2021 – The Tahltan The collective Tahltan Nation holds Aboriginal title Central Government (“TCG”) has provided notice and rights throughout Tahltan Territory, which is one to Doubleview Gold Corp. (“Doubleview”) that the of the most mineral-rich regions in British Columbia. Tahltan Nation opposes Doubleview’s continued Although the Tahltan Nation generally supports operations within Tahltan Territory. mining and exploration activities, these activities must be carried out in accordance with Tahltan laws Doubleview’s mineral claims are in a culturally sensitive and policies. To this end, the TCG has developed area and the company has a track record of being an engagement framework that applies to mineral disrespectful towards the Tahltan Nation, including exploration companies operating in their homelands. unsuccessfully taking legal action against Tahltan This framework allows the TCG to oversee activities Leaders and Elders in 2015. The TCG made many in Tahltan Territory and to meaningfully engage their reasonable attempts to work with Doubleview in a communities and people. Over thirty companies have respectful manner but the company has repeatedly signed off on the framework. failed to conduct its activities in a manner that is consistent with the United Nations Declaration on the Doubleview has failed to conduct its operations Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and has chosen according to Tahltan protocols and refuses to abide a path of uncertainty and conflict with the Tahltan people. by the TCG’s engagement framework. As a result, the Tahltan Nation will adamantly oppose Doubleview’s continued operations within Tahltan Territory and “Tahltans take pride in working meaningfully will take further steps to ensure the company’s with industry partners and the Province, but this activities will cease. company has continually been disrespectful and As Canadian law moves towards the standard of resistant to following the protocols and processes we free, prior, and informed consent, as is recognized by British Columbia’s passing of the Declaration on the have in place with mineral exploration companies Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, the Tahltan Nation throughout Tahltan Territory. We will be taking all expects that the Province will take steps to ensure that Doubleview is not granted any further permits or actions necessary to protect our land and resources, interests within Tahltan Territory. including keeping Doubleview from pursuing their It is imperative that exploration and mining companies interests in our territory any further” wishing to operate within Tahltan Territory do so in a respectful manner, as they are guests in Tahltan – President Chad Norman Day Territory with provincial permits, most of which were not granted with Tahltan support or consent.
This should serve as notice that the Tahltan Nation will not tolerate any company that attempts to operate within Tahltan Territory if they fail to build a respectful relationship with the Tahltan governments and communities through respecting Tahltan laws, protocols and the distinct title and rights of the Tahltan people.
13 TAHLTAN NATION OPPOSES DOUBLEVIEW GOLD CORPS’ OPERATIONS
Tahltan Nation evicts Doubleview Gold from territory over refusal to respect Indigenous law
Article from The Narwhal | Matt Simmons, Local Journalism Initiative reporter | Published March 24, 2021
Above: The region known as Sheslay on Tahltan Territory in northwest B.C. is a sacred place, but Doubleview Gold Corp. has been test drilling there without the Tahltan Central Government’s permission for several years. Photo: Tahltan Central Government.
The northwest B.C. First Nation served notice to a mineral exploration company after the firm refused to agree to meaningful consultation while continuing to drill in a culturally important area.
The Tahltan Central Government is evicting But Vancouver-based Doubleview would not agree to Doubleview Gold Corp. from its territory after the the Tahltan Nation’s protocols. mineral exploration company refused to respect Tahltan laws and policies. Last week, the government The central government created an engagement issued the company a notice of opposition and said framework, which ensures that mining activity on it will do whatever is necessary to make sure the its territory is done in accordance with Tahltan law. company leaves the territory. The framework requires companies to meaningfully consult with the Nation and respect its Rights and “They’ve been the most ignorant, tone deaf, disrespectful Title, which includes the right to declare areas operators in any industry that I’ve ever come across in off-limits to resource development. The framework Tahltan Territory,” Tahltan Central Government President also outlines communications protocols and policies Chad Norman Day said in an interview. on a collaborative decision-making process. More than 30 companies have signed onto the framework, The Tahltan Nation in northwest B.C. is generally but Day said Doubleview refused to do so. supportive of mining activity and is known for its collaborative approach to working with industry. The “We want them out of the territory,” he said. “We’re setting Nation has partnered with several mining companies over an example of this company.” the years and many of its members make a living working in mines on the territory and elsewhere in the Province.
14 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Above: Sheslay was a traditional meeting place DOUBLEVIEW PLANS ‘AGGRESSIVE’ On the mining company’s books, Sheslay is known as for trade between the Tahltan and Tlingit and EXPLORATION PROGRAM IN the Hat Property and is made up of 10 mineral tenures there are still remnants IMPORTANT HUNTING AREA on 6,308 hectares. The Province granted the company of old village sites, such permits to drill at 45 sites, valid until 2025. as this cabin. Doubleview has been test drilling intermittently for years Photo: Tahltan Central in a region known to the Tahltan as Sheslay, about 50 Gavin Smith, a lawyer with West Coast Environmental Government. kilometres north of Telegraph Creek. The Sheslay River Law, told The Narwhal that B.C.’s Mineral Tenure Act Top-Right: Sheslay’s is a tributary of the Taku River, which meets the Pacific does not consider Indigenous Rights and Title and mountains and river Ocean near Juneau, Alaska. Historically, the area was a allows any individual or company to purchase a tenure valley are home to caribou, meeting place for trade between the Tahltan and Tlingit without consultation or consent. And when a conflict moose, wolves, bears, and there are old village sites and burial sites on the like this comes up, the Province has few tools to salmon and other wildlife. land. Some Elders were born and raised in Sheslay. address the situation except for buying back the tenures Photo: Tahltan Central based on the price they would fetch on the free market. Government. The region’s mountains and river valley are home to caribou, moose, wolves, bears, salmon and other He said reforming B.C.’s mining laws is essential as the wildlife. This congregation of animals so close to the Province works on implementing the principles of the community means Sheslay is an important subsistence United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous hunting area for the Tahltan Nation — but it’s also a People, which it adopted into legislation in 2019. potential source of gold, copper and cobalt. “The whole regime is really problematic from start to finish in terms of setting the stage for the kinds of conflicts that Right: Doubleview Gold Corp. has been drilling I think we often see,” he said in an interview. “It is hard to near the Tahltan Sheslay imagine an act that is further from implementing UNDRIP settlement, which than the Mineral Tenure Act.” includes a traditional burial ground. He said the legislation has to be changed to prevent Photo: Tahltan Central situations like this from happening again. Government. “What we need is legislation that recognizes the role of Nations making decisions up front, before a claim is granted, before this ball starts rolling down the hill and everyone has to chase after it.”
The Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation declined an interview request and said it supports mining projects that develop strong relationships with First Nations.
15 TAHLTAN NATION OPPOSES DOUBLEVIEW GOLD CORPS’ OPERATIONS
Above: The Sheslay River Doubleview did not respond to requests for comment MINERAL EXPLORATION COMPANY is a tributary of the but according to the company’s website, it is planning DRILLED WITHOUT CONDUCTING Taku River, which meets “an aggressive 2021 exploration program.” REQUIRED ARCHAEOLOGICAL WORK the Pacific Ocean near Juneau, Alaska, and is an important spawning Day said that’s not going to happen. Conflict between the Tahltan Nation and Doubleview ground for wild salmon. dates back to 2011, when the company announced “If the company makes efforts to go out there and work its plans to conduct exploratory work in Sheslay. Photo: Tahltan Central Government. the property, then there may be conflicts on the ground.” The Tahltan Nation voiced opposition, arguing the area was historically and culturally important. The Nation also said that given the area’s history, an archaeological assessment was needed.
The company eventually agreed to conduct preliminary archaeological studies in 2014 and discovered obsidian artifact fragments under its camp and identified areas where similar artifacts would likely be found. As a result of these findings, the Province added a condition to the company’s drilling permit that required it to conduct an archaeological impact assessment before doing any more mineral exploration.
But in 2015, the company started drilling again without doing so, contracting a local company mostly staffed by Tahltan community members to do the work. Concerned about the potential impacts, four Elders, accompanied Above: Tahltan Central Government President Chad Norman Day says his Nation has long opposed by Day and Heather Hawkins, former vice-president of Doubleview Gold Corp.’s work in Sheslay, which is an the central government, went out to the mining camp. important area for subsistence hunting.
Photo: Adam Amir / Tahltan Central Government. The Elders asked to speak with the workers and told them the Tahltan people did not support mining in that area, explaining that Sheslay is a sacred place. Day asked them to stop drilling. Two days later, the employees agreed to respect the Elders’ wishes and left the site.
16 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
WITH CONSULTATION AND CONSENT, MINING COMPANIES CAN WORK ON TAHLTAN TERRITORY
There are three operating mines and more than 70 active mineral exploration claims on Tahltan Territory, according to the Nation’s 2020 industry review. One of the active mines is Red Chris, about 20 kilometres from Iskut, a Tahltan community just south of the Stikine River. Formerly operated by Imperial Metals, the mine is now owned and run by Newcrest, an Australian mining company. The company acquired the mine in 2019, agreed to the Tahltan engagement framework and has been working closely with Tahltans since.
Janine Bedford, superintendent of community relations for the mine, told The Narwhal in an email that Red Chris employs around 220 Tahltans and has an agreement with the Nation to give priority to Tahltan job applicants.
She said the company also provides Tahltan communities with resources, including an advanced care paramedic, medivac support, medical and cleaning supplies, groceries and funding for cultural programs.
But while the Tahltan Nation will work with companies like Newcrest, there are places on the territory that Above: Newcrest, owner In response, Doubleview president and CEO Farshad are off-limits and activities the Nation will not allow. of the Red Chris mine, Shirvani called the RCMP, described the meeting as a The Nation adamantly opposed industrial activity in works closely with blockade and took the Elders and government leaders the Sacred Headwaters, the source of the Stikine, the Tahltan Nation to ensure the community to court, seeking an injunction against them. Nass and Skeena rivers, successfully protecting the benefits from the project, area from a proposed coalbed methane project in 2012 whether through jobs or “What kind of mineral exploration company in Tahltan and from all industrial development in 2019. And, as investments in health care and community Territory sues Tahltan leaders and Elders who were The Narwhal previously reported, the Tahltan Central development. The mine’s born in the area that they’re drilling in and making a Government recently served a number of eviction tailings pond facility is mess of?” Day said. notices to jade placer miners operating without shown here. consent on the territory. Photo: Garth Lenz The B.C. Supreme Court dismissed the case in 2016, / The Narwhal. but Doubleview never left the territory. Day said the Tahltan Central Government made repeated attempts to negotiate with the company, offering the same terms of engagement it provides other mining companies, in hopes of establishing a positive working relationship.
Day said Doubleview’s plans to ramp up its exploratory work while refusing to meaningfully engage with the Nation was the “straw that broke the camel’s back.”
“We’re willing to be good partners, but we’re also willing to dig our heels in when people are disrespectful and want to test us,” he said.
17 TAHLTAN NATION OPPOSES DOUBLEVIEW GOLD CORPS’ OPERATIONS
THE TAHLTAN PLAN TO PROTECT Above: The volcanic ONE MILLION HECTARES OF landscape surrounding Ice Mountain (Mount Edziza) TERRITORY, INCLUDING SHESLAY is a source of obsidian, which the Tahltan traded with other Nations As the Nation continues to enforce its rules on the around the Province. territory, it is also working on plans to permanently Tahltan obsidian has been protect Sheslay. In 2019, the federal government discovered as far away as the foothills of the Rocky committed $3.9 million through the Canada Mountains in Alberta. Nature Fund to support the Nation’s land use plans, which include setting up Indigenous Protected Photo: Carol Linnitt / The Narwhal. and Conserved Areas on the territory. Tahltan stewardship planning identified three areas the Nation would focus on: Klappan, Ice Mountain (Mount Edziza) and Sheslay. In total, the proposed protection would span over one million hectares.
The stewardship and land use planning is ongoing and Sheslay remains unprotected under provincial law. Day said he will be speaking with the Province Top-Left: Arctic cotton tufts grow in about what happens next with the conflict between Mount Edziza Provincial Park, which protects around 230,000 hectares of the Tahltan Nation and Doubleview. Tahltan Territory in northwest B.C.
“It’s going to be on the Province to deal with us and to Photo: Carol Linnitt / The Narwhal. deal with the company to come up with some kind of Above: The Tahltan Nation is hoping a resolution,” Day said, adding that the Nation has a to establish Indigenous Protected good working relationship with the Province and he and Conserved Areas in several areas including Sheslay and Ice Mountain expects they will be able to come to an agreement. (Mount Edziza), shown here, part of which is already protected as a provincial park.
Photo: Matt Simmons.
18 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
JOINT NEWS RELEASE Skeena Welcomes $5 Million Investment from Tahltan Nation
March 31, 2021 Vancouver, B.C. – Skeena Resources Limited Chad Norman Day, TCG President commented, (TSX: SKE, OTCQX: SKREF) (“Skeena” or the “Tahltan Territory is home to British Columbia’s About Skeena “Company”) and the Tahltan Central Government resource rich 'Golden Triangle' and a booming
Skeena Resources Limited (“TCG”) are pleased to announce that they have mineral exploration industry. Mining has always is a Canadian mining entered into an investment agreement, pursuant been part of our culture, both in the past and in exploration company to which TCG have agreed to invest C$5 million into present-day times. For thousands of years, our focused on revitalizing the Skeena by purchasing 1,597,138 Tahltan investment people prospected, mined, and utilized obsidian for past-producing Eskay Creek rights (the “Rights”). The Rights are priced at tools, weaponry, and trade. More recently, Tahltans gold-silver mine located approximately $3.13 per Right, which reflects the supported miners during the gold rush and have in Tahltan Territory in the five-day volume weighted average price for the had operating mines in our homelands for multiple Golden Triangle of northwest British Columbia, Canada. common shares of Skeena (“Common Shares”) generations. In partnering with Skeena, the Tahltan The Company released a for the trading day ended March 25, 2021. Nation is evolving and taking significant steps robust Preliminary Economic forward by becoming meaningful equity partners Assessment in late 2019 Rights will automatically vest and convert into Common in these projects. Ownership provides the Tahltan and is currently focused on Shares, at a ratio of one Right per one Common Share Nation with a strong seat at the table as we continue infill and exploration drilling (subject to customary adjustments), over the three-year our pursuit towards capacity building and economic to advance Eskay Creek to full Feasibility by the end of period following the closing of the offering. independence for the Tahltan people.” 2021. Additionally, Skeena continues exploration Walter Coles, Skeena’s President & CEO commented, The offering is subject to the achievement of certain programs at the past- “Skeena is delighted to welcome Tahltan as partners conditions precedent, including the approval of the producing Snip gold mine. in the Company. Over the years we have often Toronto Stock Exchange. discussed our mutual desire to have the Tahltan Nation become owners of natural resource projects On behalf of the Board of Directors of Skeena being developed in their territory. This investment Resources Limited & the Tahltan Central Government into Skeena represents a further step in an evolving relationship with the Tahltan Nation. We look forward Walter Coles Jr. to continuing our work with the Tahltan and gaining President & CEO, Skeena Resources Limited the support required for Skeena’s projects.” Chad Norman Day President, Tahltan Central Government
Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements
Certain statements made and information contained herein may constitute “forward looking information” and “forward looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation. These statements and information are based on facts currently available to the Company and there is no assurance that actual results will meet management’s expectations. Forward-looking statements and information may be identified by such terms as “anticipates”, “believes”, “targets”, “estimates”, “plans”, “expects”, “may”, “will”, “could” or “would”. Forward-looking statements and information contained herein are based on certain factors and assumptions regarding, among other things, the estimation of mineral resources and reserves, the realization of resource and reserve estimates, metal prices, taxation, the estimation, timing and amount of future exploration and development, capital and operating costs, the availability of financing, the receipt of regulatory approvals, environmental risks, title disputes and other matters. While the Company considers its assumptions to be reasonable as of the date hereof, forward-looking statements and information are not guarantees of future performance and readers should not place undue importance on such statements as actual events and results may differ materially from those described herein. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements or information except as may be required by applicable securities laws.
Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
19 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT & SKEENA INVESTMENT AGREEMENT
Tahltan members,
This exciting announcement that the Tahltan Nation has taken an equity stake in Skeena Resources is yet another positive step forward for our Nation.
This major investment connects back to the Shared Property Agreement (SPA) the Tahltan Nation previously signed with the Province. To clarify, no funds for Tahltan’s equity stake in Skeena Resources came from the Tahltan Heritage Trust or other Tahltan funds. The equity stake was funded from a mixture of external funding, including NGOs. Further information regarding these financial logistics will be provided soon.
Please be advised that more good news regarding a land protection initiative surrounding Mount Edziza is scheduled to be released shortly.
Mēduh, TCG Board
20 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
NEWS RELEASE Dease Lake Airport Upgrades Benefit community
Ministry of Energy, DEASE LAKE – People who rely on the Dease Lake Additional funding to cover the full project cost of Mines and Low Carbon Airport for access to health care, emergency services, $11 million is being provided by the regional district Innovation and those who rely on transportation for work, of Kitimat-Stikine and several companies operating April 15, 2021 including the mining sector, will benefit from $9 in Tahltan Territory, including Red Chris joint venture million in StrongerBC economic recovery funding for (JV) operator Newcrest Mining Limited, Newmont/ airport upgrades. Teck Resources, Seabridge, Skeena Resources About the Stikine Limited and Pretivm Resources Inc. Airport Society “This funding will significantly improve air access
The Stikine Airport Society is to Dease Lake and the surrounding communities,” “The Stikine Airport Society is proud to receive this headed by a volunteer board said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and funding to improve the infrastructure at the Dease of directors, the membership Low Carbon Innovation. “The upgrades will enhance Lake Airport, located on the territory of the Tahltan of which is drawn from emergency services for people in this part of our Nation,”said Brian Young, treasurer, Stikine Airport the local community and Province. The provincial investment will also lead Society. “I have been on the board for the past decade aviation-related businesses to better access for mineral exploration and the and I have witnessed the many challenges inherent operating provincially and mining sector, creating good-paying, long-term jobs with ensuring safe and reliable air service to the regionally in the Dease Lake area. This non-profit in the region.” B.C. Northwest. In collaboration with Tahltan Nation organization was formed in Development Corporation, and with support from 2010 (replacing the former The StrongerBC funding will support improvements, the community and other local investors, notably Dease Lake Airport Society) such as safety upgrades to enable medevac services, Newcrest Mining, we have helped to secure a future and continues to maintain runway repaving and lighting improvements and is for economic recovery in the area, through these and operate the Dease Lake the result of the work of the Stikine Airport Society critical infrastructure improvements.” Airport. Part of the society’s constitution is to develop the (SAS) co-ordinating engagements across government airport as required, meeting and multiple industry stakeholders. The upgrades The town of Dease Lake is the largest community the changing needs of the will expand commercial and mining activity in the in the northwest of the Province. It is home to Town of Dease Lake and Northwest by ensuring the airport meets standards approximately 475 people. Another 3,500 to 4,000 surrounding area. for Transport Canada Civil Aviation certification. people from surrounding communities rely on the town as a central service hub. “The Dease Lake Airport upgrades fit with our plan to build an inclusive, sustainable economic recovery “The safety of our members is always our priority that works for everyone,”said Ravi Kahlon, Minister and that is why I am grateful for the upgrades at the of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation. “Our goal Dease Lake Airport,” said Chief Carmen McPhee, is to provide communities with the supports needed Tahltan Band Council. “Indeed, improved air access to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic safer and will provide Tahltans with more timely medevac stronger than before.” service that will save lives.”
The region is often referred to as the Golden Triangle for its abundance of mineral deposits. More than half of B.C.’s mineral exploration spending takes place in the region, which is home to the Red Chris and Brucejack mines.
21 DEASE LAKE AIRPORT UPGRADES
“Access to timely medical transportation has been “The Dease Lake Airport is an important central hub a serious and long-standing issue for our remote for many of the mining operations in the territory, Tahltan communities, something Tahltan Leadership and an integral piece to the long-term success of those has been working hard to change,” said Chief Marie operations, including our Red Chris mine. Quock, Iskut Band Council. “I am so happy that upgrades will now allow for 24- hour landing and We are delighted to be able to provide support for a take-offs, thereby providing Tahltans with medevac project that not only assists in the efficient operations services that the rest of B.C. enjoys.” of the mine, but that also contributes to the health The Province and Tahltan Central Government have and safety and well-being of Tahltan communities.” been working together to advance a shared interest Mark Adams, general manager, Newcrest Red Chris Mine JV in building an enduring, resilient government-to- government relationship in respect of land and resource use, and community, social and economic “This funding is welcome news, which will improve development within the Tahltan Territory. While more flight service and safety for the region and benefit the work remains to be done, making improvements to the Nation’s aviation businesses. TNDC’s goal is to expand Dease Lake Airport is an important step forward. Dease Lake airport services for commercial flights to serve both industry and the Tahltan community. “The Dease Lake Airport is integral We are grateful to the Government of B.C. and to Dease Lake and the surrounding Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine for sharing in community. These upgrades will vastly this vision through their financial contributions and improve a lifeline for health and to the Stikine Airport Society and Newcrest Mining wildfire readiness that also supports Limited for their support of TNDC as the contract economic growth in the region and the airport operator.” vast area it serves. Jamie Gleason, interim CEO, Tahltan Nation Development Having a safe, reliable connection to Corporation (TNDC) the rest of the Province through air transport is an economic and health- care necessity. Thank you to the local leadership for your advocacy.”
Nathan Cullen, MLA for Stikine
22 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
NEWS RELEASE Tahltan Land to be Protected in Partnership with Conservation Organizations, Industry and the Province
April 8, 2021 VICTORIA – A new conservancy to protect the “Protecting these lands will preserve the natural environment and wildlife on Tahltan Territory has been environment, help maintain biological diversity, About the BC created in an area of northwestern B.C. historically and respect the history and importance of this Parks Foundation known as the Ice Mountain Lands, adjacent to Mount area for the Tahltan Nation,” said George Heyman,
The BC Parks Foundation Edziza Provincial Park. Minister of Environment and Climate Change is the official charitable Strategy. “Collaboration and shared understanding partner of BC’s world class The Tahltan Central Government, the Province, Skeena about stewardship of the lands and waters that parks system. It is helping Resources Limited, the Nature Conservancy of Canada, sustain us is an important lesson delivered create the best park system and BC Parks Foundation have worked in partnership through true reconciliation.” in the world by working to create the conservancy. with British Columbians to Skeena Resources Limited is returning its mineral protect, enhance and sustain B.C.’s parks, while inspiring “Mount Edziza and the surrounding area has always tenures for its Spectrum mineral claim, which and connecting people to been sacred to the Tahltan Nation. The obsidian from supports the partnership with the Tahltan to establish them. To learn more, visit: this portion of our territory provided us with weaponry, the new 3,500 hectare conservancy adjoining the bcparksfoundation.ca tools and trading goods that ensured our Tahltan 230,000 hectare Mount Edziza Provincial Park. people could thrive for thousands of years,” said Chad Norman Day, President of Tahltan Central Government. “We are very pleased to work with our Tahltan partners “Working alongside Skeena Resources, the Province, to be a part of this historically significant event. BC Parks Foundation, and the Nature Conservancy of Through many open and respectful conversations with Canada to provide further protection to this area is an Tahltan leaders over the years, we have developed initiative we can all take pride in. I am so relieved and a sincere appreciation of the cultural importance of thrilled that Mount Edziza is better protected for our this area to Tahltan,” said Walter Coles, President and future generations.” CEO of Skeena Resources. “We are deeply committed to our partnership with the Tahltan Nation and are The conservancy is the first step in the multi-year happy that we can play a role in protecting this area for Tahltan Stewardship Initiative (TSI). The goal of future generations. This is reconciliation in action and the TSI is to bring greater self-determination to the symbolic of our partnership commitment to Tahltan.” Tahltan Nation and support stewardship on Tahltan territory. Tahltan Central Government plans to rename Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low the area within the conservancy at a future date, to Carbon Innovation said, “This conservancy was better reflect Tahltan heritage. created thanks to the unique partnership between the BC Parks Foundation, Nature Conservancy of Canada, Skeena Resources, the Tahltan Central Government and the Province. The genuine participation between all parties to protect these lands for future generations is a real achievement. This partnership fosters long-term relationships between Indigenous Nations and mineral companies.”
23 MOUNT EDZIZA CONSERVANCY
The parties have worked together to establish the Quick Facts About the Nature conservancy with support from the BC Parks Conservancy of Foundation and the Nature Conservancy of Canada • There are 157 conservancies in B.C., ranging in size Canada (NCC)
as well as the Province. from 11 to 322,020 hectares. The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is the This initiative was also supported by the Government • The last conservancy established was Tsaa Nuna nation’s leading not-for-profit, of Canada through the Natural Heritage Conservation Conservancy in 2021. private land conservation Program, part of Canada’s Nature Fund; the Wyss organization, working to protect our most important Foundation; MakeWay; the Wilburforce Foundation; • Conservancies allow a wider range of low-impact, natural areas and the MapleCross Fund; Sitka Foundation; and the Leon compatible economic opportunities than Class A species they sustain. Since Judah Blackmore Foundation. parks. However, commercial logging, mining and 1962, NCC and its partners hydroelectric power generation, other than local have helped to protect 14 “It’s encouraging to see governments, Indigenous peoples, run-of-the-river projects, are prohibited. million hectares (35 million industry, philanthropic foundations and conservation acres), coast to coast to groups working together to protect our iconic natural • Parks and protected areas are dedicated to coast. To learn more, visit: natureconservancy.ca environment in British Columbia and across the country. preserving the natural environment and providing By collaborating on projects like these, we are making outstanding outdoor recreation opportunities. The Government of progress toward conserving a quarter of lands in Canada Places of special ecological importance are Canada’s Natural Heritage Conservation Program by 2025,” said the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, designated as ecological reserves for scientific (NHCP) is a unique Minister of Environment and Climate Change. research and educational purposes. public-private partnership to support new protected “Permanently protecting the cultural and ecological and conserved areas by values of these lands is a remarkable achievement. securing private lands and We congratulate the Tahltan Central Government on their private interests in lands. leadership and vision in making this outcome a reality,” HISTORY ON THE CONSERVANCY The program is managed by the Nature Conservancy of said Nancy Newhouse, BC Region Vice President, Nature Canada (NCC). Federal funds Conservancy of Canada. “The unique volcanic landforms, The Cassiar Iskut-Stikine Land and Resource invested in the program are the habitat connectivity for wildlife, and the long history Management Plan (LRMP), which was developed in 2000 matched with contributions of human relationship to this land all make it an area well and encompasses 5.2 million hectares, recommended raised by NCC and its worth conserving. This was truly a collaborative project, the establishment of several new protected areas in partners, Ducks Unlimited where partners representing a wide range of interests northwestern B.C. The LRMP also recommended that Canada and the country’s land trust community. worked together in the spirit of co-operation.” if the mineral tenures in an area next to Mount Edziza Provincial Park became inactive, the area should be The Province and Tahltan Central Government have added to the park. been working together to advance their shared interests in building an enduring, resilient government- Rather than adding the Ice Mountain area to the existing to-government relationship in respect of land and Mount Edziza Park, recent government-to-government resource use, and community, social and economic discussions with the Tahltan recommended the area development within the Tahltan Territory. While more be designated as a conservancy. Conservancies are work remains to be done to advance their shared established to explicitly recognize the importance interests, this agreement is an important step. of an area to First Nations for social, ceremonial and cultural uses. They also enable the continuation “This is a triple win,” said Andy Day, CEO of the BC Parks of traditional Aboriginal uses and provide flexibility Foundation. “Together, we’re protecting a huge area to ensure opportunities for low impact, compatible for wildlife and nature, we’re advancing reconciliation, economic activities. The first conservancies in B.C. and we’re supporting sustainable recreation and use. were designated in 2006 following government-to- Big up to the Tahltan, B.C., NCC, and Skeena for getting government negotiations with First Nations on land in the same canoe and paddling in the same direction – use plans for the central and north coast. it’s a great direction for B.C.”
24 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
25 MOUNT EDZIZA CONSERVANCY
26 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Mount Edziza Conservancy - Overview Map
130°30'W 130°25'W Mount Edziza Conservancy
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Data and Notes Wetland µ Dease Lake Mount Edziza Conservancy Glacier or Icefield ^ Mount Edziza Park Ministry of Environment & Climate Change Startegy BC Parks Protected Area Freshwater Ministry of Environment & Climate Change Startegy ! Dawson Creek BBCC PPaarrkkss,, PPrroovviinncciiaall SSeerrvviicceess BBrraanncchh ! Road River 1:60,000 Prin!ce Rupert ! Prince George ! Contour - 1000m Lake Km ! 0 1 2 Williams Lake Contour - 200m Lake - Intermittent !
Disclaimer: ! Learn More: ! This map is a static representation of the spatial boundaries Kamloops ! ! Stream ! ! Merritt ! ! ! Filename: MtEdziza_Overview_8.5x11P portrayed at the time of creation. It should not be used for ! ! ! ! ! Vancouv!er !!Trail Stream - Intermittent Projection: NAD 1983 BC Environment Albers legal purposes. It is intended for public information only. ! ! !!! !! !! ! !!!!!! Datum: North American 1983 Accordingly, this map should only be used for general ! Victoria !! Date/Time Created/Revised: Mar 30, 2021 1042 reference purposes. Location map and overview map of the conservancy: bcparks.ca/conservancies/mount-edziza
Information about the B.C. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act can be found here: gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/indigenous- people/new-relationship/united-nations-declaration- on-the-rights-of-indigenous-peoples
27 MOUNT EDZIZA CONSERVANCY
Conservancy protects mountainous area sacred to Tahltan Nation in northwestern B.C.
CBC News | The Canadian Press | April 08, 2021
Indigenous, provincial and federal leaders have worked alongside industry and environmental groups to create a new conservancy in an area of northwestern British Columbia sacred to the Tahltan Nation. Creation of the conservancy is the first step in the multi-year Tahltan Stewardship Initiative aimed at strengthening the Nation’s self-determination. The statement says the Tahltan Central Government plans to rename the area to better reflect its Indigenous heritage.
cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/tahltan-conservancy-b-c-1.5980374
New conservancy protects sacred Tahltan land near Mount Edziza Provincial Park
Terrace Standard | Ben Bogstie | April 08, 2021
A new conservancy has been created in Tahltan Territory that will protect wildlife and the environment near Mount Edziza Provincial Park in northwest B.C. “This area is probably the most sacred and important to the Tahltan people of anywhere,” said Chad Norman Day, TCG president. “I’m sure our ancestors and others are smiling down on us today now that we’ve got it better protected.”
terracestandard.com/news/new-conservancy-protects-sacred-tahltan-land-near-mount-edziza-provincial-park/
How the Tahltan and a B.C. mining company collaborated to protect Mount Edziza from development
The Narwhal | Matt Simmons | April 08, 2021
Thanks to a unique collaboration between the Tahltan Nation, the B.C. government, a mining company and non-profit environmental organizations, an area of ecological and cultural importance on the eastern slopes of Mount Edziza, known to the Tahltan as Ice Mountain, is now permanently protected. Much of the landscape around the mountain [...] was protected in 1972 as a provincial park, but 3,500 hectares were left open to industrial activity due to existing mineral tenures. The new Mount Edziza Conservancy [...] closes the book on those tenures and any industrial activity in the area.
thenarwhal.ca/mount-edziza-tahltan-skeena-resources/
Tahltan land to be protected in partnership with conservation organizations, industry and Province
CFTKTV | Hillary Johnson | April 08, 2021
A new conservancy to protect the environment and wildlife on Tahltan Territory has been created in northwestern B.C., historically known as the Ice Mountain Lands, adjacent to Mount Edziza Provincial Park. In a News Release, Tahltan Central Government President Chad Norman says, “Mount Edziza and the surrounding area have always been sacred to the Tahltan Nation. The obsidian from this portion of our territory provided weaponry, tools and trading goods that ensured our people could thrive for thousands of years.” cftktv.com/News/Tahltan-land-to-be-protected-in-partnership-with-c
28 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Tahltan Predator Policy Remains in Effect
The Wildlife Department has been advancing the Tahltan The current population of grizzly bears in BC is Predator Management Framework, which is based on approximately 15,000 (as estimated in 2012), with an estimated 3,846 bears in Tahltan Territory, of defining areas in the territory to support application of: which 90 to 100 (2.3%) were killed by humans, with the majority from hunter harvest. This indicates a • A Tahltan Predator Management Policy – endorsed harvest of about 90 to 100 grizzly bears appear to by Leadership have been historically supported while maintaining a sustainable bear population. • Identified management units to support predator management across multiple management scales There is no estimate of the black bear population • Predator harvesting programs which support: in Tahltan Territory. The Province is believed to » Tahltan Member harvesting rights support between 120,000 and 160,000 black bears (BC Government, 2001). Tahltan knowledge and » Defense of life and property local knowledge have indicated increased numbers of » Tahltan community areas used to meet black bears over the last 10 years. Historically, there sustenance needs has been a low-licensed harvest of black bears with 23 to 30 annually. However, current hunting regulations » Advancement of a Tahltan-based licenced have open seasons from spring to fall for bears hunting permit system for grizzly bear, with a bag limit of two. Consequently, there are no black bear, and wolf conservation issues with black bears in the territory. The first step to manage predators–specifically grizzly bear, black bear, and wolf–will be through the support WOLF of Tahltan members by harvesting and trapping for cultural purposes consistent with Aboriginal law. Tahltan knowledge, scientific literature and local knowledge provide information that supports high This will be further addressed by the Tahltan Wildlife density wolf populations. Tahltan Territory is identified Department and Guardians deploying harvesting as having high wolf density in the provincial Wolf and trapping programs and working with commercial Management Plan. High density includes population trappers and licensed hunters in the Nation. densities of five to fifteen wolf per 1,000 km². Review of wolf densities specific to the Tahltan Nation estimates The final approach is re-establishing a managed wolf densities at 15 wolves/1,000 km², consistent with licensed hunt of grizzly bear as well as predator provincial information. Recent wolf harvests have, on removal through TCG trapping, snaring, and culling average, been 64 wolves through licensed hunting and programs, including aerial wolf pack removal, pupping, 145 wolves through commercial trapping. These are and denning techniques. considered minimums since they do not include Tahltan harvests and hides not commercially sold.
GRIZZLY BEAR & BLACK BEAR Tahltan knowledge supports higher-than-reported wolf densities, and Tahltan members have reported higher Tahltan knowledge, scientific literature and local densities, pack sizes and numbers for several decades. knowledge provide information that supports grizzly and black bear populations in Tahltan Territory are stable to increasing. In addition, bear predation has been identified as substantial on culturally-important ungulates. Tahltan members have indicated increased numbers for both species.
29 TAHLTAN PREDATOR POLICY REMAINS IN EFFECT
Tahltan use of Black Bears and Grizzly Bears
TAHLTAN ANCESTRAL STUDIES ETHNOGRAPHIC LITERATURE The Tahltan Ancestral Studies (TAS), which include information Whereas TAS data provides more geographical detail as to where derived from many interviews with Elders born in the early 1900s black and grizzly bears could be found, the kind of habitat they or earlier, demonstrate an extensive and intimate knowledge of preferred, and where they were hunted, ethnographic literature black bears and grizzly bears in Tahltan Territory. They describe provides further detailed accounts of how Tahltans used the bear habitat, where bear dens are located, and where you should bears they killed. They discuss the use of different parts of the go to hunt bears in the fall and in the spring. bear, including: grease, meat, head, and hide. They also tell of the spiritual significance bears hold for Tahltans.
USES OF BLACK BEARS & GRIZZLY BEARS
NUTRITIONAL
• Bears were hunted for meat at high elevations in the fall and in • Bear heads were eaten after being roasted by suspending the valleys in the spring, normally with Tahltan Bear Dogs. them over a campfire with an antler hook attached to a horizontal pole. • In the fall, bears were also hunted for their fat, which they have in abundance at that time. • Bear paws were cooked by boiling water in ground pits that were lined up with spruce or birch bark and traditionally • Bear flesh dried on poles over campfires before being heated up with hot stones. eaten sometimes. • Fern rhizomes were often eaten with bear grease. • Dried bear meat and rendered fat were often stored in cache pits in the area of fall camps at timberline. • Berries of all kinds were eaten with bear grease; often bears and the berries were harvested at the same time in the fall.
MATERIAL SPIRITUAL
• Skinning knives were made from the longitudinal flat section • Grizzly bear is one of the crests of the Nana’ai. of lower leg bone of the bear and were often decorated with • One method of acquiring the spirit power or manitous of lines and geometric patterns and coloured with red ochre. the bear was through cutting its tongue and going through • Bear hides were used for robes, bedding, and rugs. Tahltan rituals thereafter with other medicinal plants and/or other animal parts (ie. grouse feathers). • Hides of any kind of animal that had been de-fleshed during the fall or winter were often covered in bear grease as a • Other bear rituals vary depending on the clan, time of year, means of preservation until they could be worked again. and purpose.
30 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Tahltan Harvest Policy
Tahltan members who wish to participate in the incentive payment program for hunting predatory species must sign a form acknowledging the risks and associated liability associated with the activity.
A copy of the policy will be provided to you with the information including the incentives for successfully harvesting a predator. All the information is required by the TCG Wildlife Department. Additional information such as weight, overall health and size will be valuable and is much appreciated. This information will be requested by the Guardians and used to supplement our strategy for targeting specific areas of concern within the territory.
Anyone who wants to take their hide to a tannery within BC should receive confirmation the tannery will accept grizzly bear hides. Grizzly bears harvested under the Tahltan Policy will be given consideration on a case- by-case basis until we can implement a Tahltan/BC Wildlife Accord with the Province of BC. The export permit required legally to transport animal hides or animal products is not currently being issued from the Province since the grizzly bear hunting ban was implemented in 2018.
If you want to transport to a tannery outside of BC, please contact the TCG Wildlife Department for additional details.
Left: Jarett Quock salting a bear hide.
“Anyone who wants to take their hide to a tannery within BC should receive confirmation the tannery will accept grizzly bear hides. Grizzly bears harvested under the Tahltan Policy will be given consideration on a case-by-case basis until we can implement a Tahltan/BC Wildlife Accord with the Province of BC.”
31 TAHLTAN PREDATOR POLICY REMAINS IN EFFECT
32 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Tahltans New
33 NEW TAHLTANS · CONDOLENCES
DANAE ALLISON KYRON TRACE JAKESTA NOAH ANDREW RAY DAVIES QUINN NOLE Jenny Jakesta Chelsie Jakesta & Desmond Davies Quentin Nole & Nicole Desjarlais February 10, 2021 2lbs 2oz April 7, 2021 7lbs 10oz January 28, 2021 6lbs 2oz
CABE JACOB LEWIS MILLER EXAVIAH KERSTIN ADALINE BLUMS Chasity Rozsas & Ty Miller March 4, 2021 8lbs 3oz Kayla White & Clayton Blums January 24, 2021
Condolences
DARIUS ELIAS IRENE TASHOOTS JOHN GROAT
March 1972–February 2021 May 1942–February 2021 October 1965–April 2021
34 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
35 NEW BOARD MEMBER – AMANDA QUASH
New Board Member Amanda Quash
As our new Goodzama Family Representative, I would like to introduce myself. My name is Amanda Quash, from Telegraph Creek. My Tahltan name is Saki (pronounced Tha’kee), from the Chi’yone clan. My mother is Lena Sharko (Quash) and step-dad Blaine Sharko. My maternal grandparents are the late Josephine Quash and Vernon Carlick. My paternal grandparents are William Bob Sr. and Muriel Calder. My spouse Jordan Hawkins and I currently reside in Prince George, BC, where I am attending the College of New Caledonia. I have a 13-year-old daughter that keeps our life insanely busy with her love of sports, particularly hockey and soccer, year-round. With a break in the summer we return home to our fish camp on the banks of the Tahltan River to reconnect with our roots and harvest our fish.
Growing up in Telegraph Creek, I would stay at my grandparents’ house where my Grandpa Willie Bob, who from a young age would always take the time to sit me down (before I could go out and play) and educate me on the importance of Native politics. Therefore, one might say I was groomed at a young age. My grandpa Willie was one of the founders of the Tahltan Tribal Council. In short, Amanda Quash growing up I have always had political influence around me. Goodzama Family Representative I would like to take the time to thank my cousins, Carmen and Annita McPhee, for their influential roles and all that they have done for our Nation. I would have to say that leadership has always been in my blood. My late great grandfather Nannock, Charlie Quash, was the last hereditary Chief of our Tahltan Nation. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to be able to work for my Nation and most of all to make my Goodzama family proud.
“I would have to say that leadership has always been in my blood. My late great-great-great grandfather Nannock, Charlie Quash, was the last hereditary Chief of our Tahltan Nation. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to be able to work for my Nation and most of all to make my Goodzama family proud.”
36 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
New Staff Ursula Abramczyk
Hello! I am pleased to introduce myself to the Tahltan Nation as a recent addition to the TCG’s Culture & Heritage Department.
My name is Ursula Abramczyk. I am a settler and Indigenous ally originally based in Eastern Canada and with roots in Eastern Europe. Since 2013, I have worked for BC First Nations in support of culture, heritage and land use and occupancy projects related to First Nations’ self-determination and territorial autonomy.
I currently hold the position of archivist as part of the TCG’s archives project. In this role, I am helping to bring together the documentary legacy of the Tahltan Nation in order to make it more accessible to a number of audiences that will be directed by our access policy, which is currently being developed. This project will result in an indispensable resource for the Tahltan Nation, such as for TCG staff asserting Tahltan rights & title, and in the promotion of Tahltan culture, language, and history.
Ursula Abramczyk Archivist “...I am helping to bring together the documentary legacy of the Tahltan Nation in order to make it more accessible to a number of audiences that will be directed by our access policy, which is currently being developed. This project will result in an indispensable resource for the Tahltan Nation, such as for TCG staff asserting Tahltan rights & title, and in the promotion of Tahltan culture, language, and history.”
37 NEW STAFF – URSULA ABRAMCZYK & RYMA ANELIUNAS
New Staff Ryma Aneliunas
It is a pleasure to be working with the Tahltan Central Government. I hope everyone is in good health. I look forward to being able to meet everyone in person and explore the Tahltan land very soon.
I live in the City of Fernie, in the unceded territory of the Ktunaxa. I have a Bachelor of Applied Technology in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology in Calgary. In addition, I have an Environmental Resource Management Certificate from the University of Alberta. I have been a GIS Technician for over ten years and really enjoy what I do. I enjoy telling geographical stories through mapping and I hope I can help to share yours.
I grew up in the Northwest Territories, mainly in Hay River (K’atl’odeeche) where my mother still resides and teaches. My career started working with communities in the NWT, all the way up to Inuvik, doing forest inventory and ecology. I worked with Rangeland Management for the Alberta Environment for a decade, working towards preserving native grasslands through grazing and rangeland stewardship. I also was a Wildfire GIS Specialist during the Ryma Aneliunas fire season when communities were at risk including Slave Lake, Fort McMurray, and the Cariboo Plateau in BC. I am GIS Analyst outdoors any chance I have, hiking, kayaking, snowshoeing, fishing and camping. If you have any questions about me, please do not hesitate to ask.
“My career started working with communities in the NWT, all the way up to Inuvik, doing forest inventory and ecology. I worked with Rangeland Management for the Alberta Environment for a decade, working towards preserving native grasslands through grazing and rangeland stewardship. I also was a Wildfire GIS Specialist during the fire season when communities were at risk including Slave Lake, Fort McMurray, and the Cariboo Plateau in BC.”
38 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Tahltan OnTrack
The Tahltan Central Government is working hard to connect Tahltans–no matter where you live, your education, or your job experience–with the vast array of job opportunities in Tahltan Territory!
39 TAHLTAN ONTRACK
ABOUT TAHLTAN ONTRACK Discover your perfect career Find a career, not just another job. Join the Tahltan OnTrack website and discover Tahltan-exclusive jobs – tailored to fit your life.
Hailey Carlick Beck now works with Newcrest as a Community Relations Intern for Red Chris after getting a notification about OnTrack . Intrigued, she attended a webinar, created an account, and soon found the opportunity she was looking for . View her and other success stories at ontrack.tahltan.org
HARDWIRED FOR SUCCESS
Tahltans have always known that we have a unique skill set and problem-solving is in our blood. Tahltans who work in resource development know that these skills are transferable to the workplace. The resource development industry needs workers with a vested Ready to test interest in their projects. OnTrack showcases our skills and connects Tahltan job-seekers with opportunities. your skills? IN CONTROL OF YOUR FUTURE By creating your own profile in the OnTrack database, Visit Tahltan OnTrack to learn more Tahltans are able to create a resume and connect with and match your skill set with current Tahltan-exclusive employment opportunities. After completing an essential skills assessment, you will employment opportunities. automatically be notified of new jobs that match your career interests and essential skills.
GET ON TRACK ontrack.tahltan.org Learn about the jobs you qualify for, regardless of formal education. Tahltan members can earn certification and qualifications for their skills, identify opportunities for education and training, and follow career building paths.
40 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
REDEFINING HOW WE CONNECT TAHLTANS TO JOB OPPORTUNITIES TahltanWorks becomes Tahltan OnTrack
Above: Tahltan OnTrack With the launch of the Tahltan OnTrack website, the Facebook Group. TahltanWorks Facebook group has been rebranded to Tahltan OnTrack.
We will continue to post all job, training, and education opportunities to this private page. We can also provide assistance registering for the Tahltan OnTrack site and guidance for the OnTrack database, test and assessments.
The group is available only to Tahltan members and it will not show up in searches on Facebook. To join, message Ann Ball (Employment & Contracting Director) or Freda Campbell (Dease Lake Community Director) on Facebook and we will add you to the Tahltan OnTrack Facebook group. If you are not on Facebook, please send Ann Ball your resume directly to: [email protected].
Be specific about the type of opportunities you are looking for and please include a cover letter detailing your interest and experience.
Remember, if you’re unable to qualify for a job due to lack of proper education or certificates, there are funds available to all Tahltan people through TCG’s Education & Training Department.
41 42 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
43 SUPPORTING OUR NATION TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
OUR LAND, OUR FUTURE, YOUR VOICE
The Tahltan Stewardship Initiative (TSI) will support our Nation in asserting self-determination and fulfilling our inherent stewardship responsibilities for Tahltan Territory. The TSI will help us to build our capacity, engagement, governance, and stewardship plans.
45 TAHLTAN STEWARDSHIP INITIATIVE
This vital work is needed to ensure we take care of our territory now and for future generations.
TSI will advance our efforts to conserve wildlife, manage economic development, protect our environment, strengthen our relationship with the land (including culturally significant areas), and assert our jurisdiction over Tahltan Territory.The initiative will seek to build and utilize Tahltan knowledge and worldview, local knowledge and science into decision-making processes and provide opportunities for Tahltans to work for the Tahltan Central Government (TCG).
Our territory is roughly 11% of British Columbia, larger than the country of Portugal and slightly smaller than South Korea. Tahltans make up over half of the residents in Tahltan Territory. We have lived, fought, and bled, protecting our territory since time immemorial. We have a unique relationship with our land. We are the land. If we take care of our land, it will take care of us. So, we must continue to assert our stewardship and jurisdiction over our territory. TSI will actively seek to bring together Tahltans to strengthen the Tahltan way of life by contributing to this initiative. TSI is a step forward on the journey of self-determination and preservation of Tahltan culture.
Building from previous work, our Culture and Heritage, Fisheries, Lands, and Wildlife Departments coordinate efforts under the TSI to further shared interests. Tahltan Land Stewardship Planning (TLSP) is also continuing under the TSI. It will position us well to show the Province of British Columbia how Tahltans care for our land and resources so we can continue activities (whether it be for sustenance, cultural traditions, forestry, mining, or other purposes) sustainably. In parallel, as a part of TSI, we are co-developing the planning methodology for the Tahltan-BC Land Use Plan. We are also working on a lands governance framework and operational policies for water stewardship, lands, and mining. This work will support our land stewardship planning and involvement in major projects and activities in Tahltan Territory.
46 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
RECENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS
NEW CONSERVANCY VIRTUAL COMMUNITY & FAMILY CREATED INFORMATION SESSIONS
As part of the TSI, a new conservancy has been Our team hosted two virtual community information created to protect the environment and wildlife on sessions on March 31 and April 10, 2021, open to Tahltan Territory, an area historically known as the Ice all members. These sessions were our first virtual Mountain Lands, adjacent to Mount Edziza Provincial opportunity to share information about TSI and answer Park. The TCG, the Province, Skeena Resources questions. Virtual engagement sessions will be offered Limited, the Nature Conservancy of Canada, and BC in the months ahead and throughout the initiative. Parks Foundation have worked in partnership to create We have also begun hosting TSI update sessions at the conservancy. To better reflect Tahltan heritage, the family meetings. If you are interested in receiving TCG plans to rename the area within the conservancy updates during your family meeting, please have your at a future date and will be seeking input from Family Representative contact Nalaine Morin. We members to facilitate this process. have developed a communications and engagement plan to share the work of the TSI and involve members strategically. We look forward to sharing the work of the TSI in the months ahead and connecting with you.
COVID-19 has given us many challenges. Sadly, we cannot get together in person, learn together, and provide input on the critical work of our Nation. For now, open houses, feasts, events, and other in-person activities are on hold. As soon as we can safely meet and gather, we will. Through the TSI, we will share information with membership regardless of any restrictions or constraints. We are working to create new avenues to share with you and receive your valued input. The TSI is being developed for the Nation for members to contribute to, shape and evolve. We encourage and ask all Tahltans to participate in this important work.
47 TSI RECENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS
48 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
THE TSI STEERING COMMITTEE
We would like to introduce all Tahltans to our TSI Steering Committee, Steering Committee members will use their expertise, leadership which reports to the TCG Board of Directors, and is responsible for direction, legal obligations from government-to-government overseeing the initiative, providing guidance, and ensuring technical agreements, and community direction to plan and make decisions and governance work is coordinated and progressing. to guide the TSI to success for the Nation.
Nalaine Morin Lands Director & TSI Chair
My name is Nalaine Morin, and my parents are Janell Creyke and Pierre Morin. I am the Lands Director for the TCG, and this is my second year in this role. I have worked in the Lands Department for several years as the lead project manager for the Tahltan Heritage Resources Environmental Assessment Team (THREAT). I have a degree in Metals and Materials Engineering from the University of British Columbia (UBC) and a diploma in Mechanical Engineering Design from the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). My work with the Nation has led to opportunities to further develop my skills in natural resource management and recognition of my work including the 2021 Skookum Jim Award, 2018 Indigenous Trailblazer Award, and 2018 Aura Award.
I believe strongly in our vision to steward Tahltan lands for future generations. In my work as the Lands Director, I have been working with our Lands and TSI teams to build tools that support our goals and help us realize our vision. It is so important for us to work collaboratively within the TCG to ensure that we can manage our lands and resources for future generations. This means making sure that we have strong governance, including policies that build on our 1910 Declaration and other works done by previous leadership to ensure that the tools we use to support decision-making are grounded in Tahltan laws and by Tahltan people.
This is an exciting time for Indigenous Nations as we further advance our goals towards reconciliation. Indigenous governments are working towards advancing their decision-making authorities and responsibilities, which for Tahltan is supported by all the activities undertaken through the TSI.
49 THE TSI STEERING COMMITTEE
Cheri Frocklage Fisheries Director
I come from a family that provided me an early appreciation of nature. My grandparents, Bud and Doris Simpson, took their grandkids fishing, moose hunting, berry and mushroom picking. They taught us to be respectful of the environment and the gifts that nature provided us for harvest. From a very early age, I developed a love for the outdoors. I started my role with Fisheries in 1990, employed as one of the two Fisheries Coordinators hired by the Iskut and Tahltan Band Councils, working at the Tahltan Tribal Council (TTC) office located in Dease Lake. I attended various programs and band office management training workshops through the Skeena Native Development Society and received an Introduction to Natural Resource Management Certification from the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology. I was mentored by Marilyn Norby and Mary-Ellen Jarvis. The most rewarding and influential portion of my training came from interaction with our community members, particularly our Tahltan Elders. I spent countless hours talking with them and learning as much as I could about the fisheries resources that provided food security to our Nation. Many of these Elders have long since passed. I remain honoured to have had the opportunity to sit in their presence, soaking up their stories and their knowledge.
When I applied for this job 31 years ago, it was partly out of a As Tahltans, we have always asserted our rights over our territory genuine interest in fish and wildlife, and partly out of necessity. even in the absence of agreements and often in the absence of I needed a stable job and income to provide for my child. When she inclusion at the decision-making tables. Our leadership has done was a toddler, we started attending family fish camp at Glenora. extensive work over the past years ensuring that Tahltan interests Being immersed in my culture, it did not take very long to confirm are addressed despite the absence of binding agreements with my dedication to involvement in salmon management. One had only government. What a proud day it will be for our Nation when we to look around the campfire at the many smiling faces, the many are recognized by the federal and provincial governments and generations represented, and soak in the love and the sharing provided our role in the decision-making process. By participation that took place. The time spent together, harvesting fish from the in, and the development of the TSI, we are getting closer to realizing fishing site that my great grandmother also harvested her fish from. our vision. In my short time with TCG, I have been amazed at the The teachings passed down from my grandparents to my mother level of work that is being done. I am so very grateful to be working and my aunties and uncles was in turn, taught, and passed down to with my fellow Directors and TSI Team on a common goal and this my generation and to the next. The sun on your face, stories shared landmark agreement. by my Elders, the sounds of children’s laughter, the whistle of the pressure cookers, the ping of a jar sealing, a quick visit and coffee shared with neighbours all served to nurture my soul. The value of this cultural family activity and the assurance of food security spoke loudly to me. I have remained dedicated to the conservation and protection of the Stikine River salmon stocks not only for my family, but for all Tahltan families, current and future. I knew I had found my calling and I was where I needed to be.
50 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Lance Nagwan Wildlife Director
Member of Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation from Old Crow, Yukon, I was raised on the land hunting, fishing, and trapping under my grandfather’s tutelage. I was taught to respect the land animals and natural processes that connect them. I attended high school in Whitehorse, Yukon and college in Lethbridge, Alberta for Renewable Resource Management.
I started my working career as a Park Patrol Person for Vuntut National Park – Parks Canada for ten seasons and additionally worked for two years as a Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Fisheries Technician managing the operation of the Fishing Branch Chum Enumeration Project. It was around then that I began working for my First Nation, the Vuntut Gwitchin Government, in different roles and capacities. I worked as a Game Guardian, Lands Manager, and Natural Resources Director. Each time broadening my understanding of political negotiations and ability to manage resources. Working for my First Nation that relied heavily on subsistence harvesting and cultural dependence of the Porcupine Caribou Herd, under threat of industrial development in the herd’s calving grounds located in Alaska. The threat persists today, while my Gwitchin Nation continues to oppose oil and gas resource development in our sacred place where life begins.
The TSI will be the guiding document and mechanism that will empower the Tahltan Nation with the ability to manage the land for future generations. Protecting the inherent values that are important to the Tahltan people while allowing for future land development under a sustainable pace and scale.
On a personal level, I feel honoured and privileged to work for the Nation on this important project. I now call this my home and love experiencing what the land has to offer. I teach my Tahltan children the same values and respect for the land and animals that was instilled in me, as I want them to have the chance to enjoy healthy land, water, and animals until they can teach their own children.
51 THE TSI STEERING COMMITTEE
Gordon Infanti Communications & External Relations Director
For almost three years, I have been privileged to be the TCG Communications Director and now Communications & External Relations Director.
In addition, with over twelve years’ experience working on Residential School issues, setting up a communications department for a Modern Treaty Nation, having lived for over one year in a First Nation community, and having experience providing a full range of communications deliverables at the highest levels of government, I am very enthusiastic about how my experience can serve the Tahltan Stewardship Initiative.
Sandra Marion Culture & Heritage Director
As the Culture & Heritage Director, I believe that the Tahltan Stewardship Initiative is very important to our Nation as it provides an avenue to meaningful and active management of all aspects of our territory and its natural resources.
In my view, the province falls short in truly understanding our Northern BC region. With the guided information provided by TSI, we can come together to collaboratively develop robust regulations and to implement preventative measures with on-the-ground management.
52 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
THE TSI PROJECT TEAM
The TSI Project Team supports the TSI Steering Committee and Ombrielle Neria, Communications Specialist, and Ryma Aneliunas, delivery of the initiative. The team includes: Kala Hooker, Project GIS Analyst. We are excited to share that Youth Stewardship Officers Manager, Christine Creyke, Project Coordinator, Garry Merkel, will be joining our team as part of the Youth Stewardship Program. Land Use Planning Lead, Alanna Quock, Indigenous Protected We look forward to introducing new team members in the months ahead. and Conserved Areas Lead, Norm Maclean, Technical Advisor,
Kala Hooker Christine Creyke Project Manager Project Coordinator
I would have been born in Kitsault, BC, but since there was no hospital, In 2006, I graduated from the University of Northern British Columbia I was born in Prince Rupert instead. I most recently lived in Smithers, with a bachelor’s degree in geography. After graduation, I gained for 11 years. Though I miss the North, I now call the Kootenays my employment as the Land Stewardship Coordinator for Tahltan Central home. My husband, Wade Brunham, and I have four children, three Council, where I learned about our people, and our role with resource of whom are boys. My oldest son, Sages, attended fish camp on the extraction and development. Due to the abundance of exploration hospitality of Ann Ball and her family a couple of years ago. We hope and mining companies in Tahltan Territory and the lack of a collective to have the opportunity to visit again soon. community vision for resource management decision making, I decided to continue my studies at the master’s level in the Natural I am a Project Management Professional with a degree in Resource and Environmental Studies program. My graduate thesis Anthropology. I have more than 10 years’ experience in the natural is titled, The Tahltan Nation and our consultation process with the resource, agriculture, and business sectors. In the past, I have mining industry; How a land use plan might improve the process and worked with the Tahltan Nation on the Collaborative Stewardship policies and was successfully defended in 2011. While attending Framework, hunting regulations and land use planning. grad school, I applied to the Jane Glassco Northern Fellowship, a two-year program focused on policy and leadership development. I am honoured to provide a supporting role for the Tahltan on I was chosen as one of twelve Northerners across Canada for the the TSI. As Project Manager for the TSI, it is important to me to first cohort. My work focused on policy development for oil and ensure this project is aligned with Tahltan values and knowledge. gas activities in the Arctic. This work is important as we move forward with community- level operationalization and implementation of Tahltan law, My hope is that by educating myself, both in traditional and western national and international commitments like B.C.’s Declaration ways, it will help our people stay strong and rooted in culture, while on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act and the United Nations advancing our modern land and resource management tools. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Since 2016, I have worked for the Tahltan Central Government. First as the Lands Director and more recently as the TSI Coordinator. Since having my second child, I have decided to take a step down as a director and focus my energy on the TSI project specifically. I have lived in Dease Lake for most of my life. This is where I choose to raise my family and advance my traditional skills. I enjoy tanning hide, sewing, harvesting medicine, and learning about Tahltan culture. Recently, I have begun working to start a Tahltan dance group with Youth here in Dease Lake.
53 THE TSI PROJECT TEAM
TSI will bring together knowledge of past, current, and future TSI team, we will prepare plans that describe how we as Tahltan will land uses and stewardship responsibilities. It will build capacity direct land use in Tahltan Territory. These plans will become one of within our government structure to ensure managing our natural the most important tools in supporting future land use decisions and cultural resources will continue in a good way. TSI will be a in Tahltan Territory and will help ensure that we can continue our legacy that will guide consistent decision-making over time and close spiritual, sustenance and personal relationship with our lands ensure the protection of Tahltan land, culture, and way of life. based on our cultural teachings. As a Tahltan member living in territory, I see how important our land is to practicing culture and tradition in daily life which is something The TSI is important to the Tahltan Nation because it will help us fulfill I feel is lacking in our Youth. I believe Youth is our biggest resource. our inherent stewardship responsibility for our lands as assigned to I want to assist Youth in inter-generational learning of Tahltan us by Ahdigi Dene Ti’e. As Tahltan, we have been taught from birth knowledge and integration with TSI activities. that we have a responsibility to care for our lands. The TSI will help us build all the tools we need to do that job at a high professional level in today’s world, while remaining grounded in our cultural teachings about how to live with and take care of our lands. Some of the bigger tools include: creating a system that teaches our community about our lands and plans for the use of our lands based on community direction; developing our internal readiness to be full and competent participants in modern land management; creating relationships with other governments that have Tahltans as equal decision Garry Merkel makers for all land use in Tahltan Territory; and, doing on the ground Land Use Planning Lead enhancement and research projects to better understand and take care of important resources in our territory. I am the grandson of George and Grace Edzerza, a member of the Etzenlee family and the Cheona clan. I am a Registered Professional Forester with more than 45 years of experience in land management, governance development, business development, education, public policy, and other areas. I hold a Forest Technologist Diploma (with distinction), Bachelor of Science in Forest Management (with honors) and various honorary degrees in arts, law, and science. Alanna Quock A large part of my work has centered on community land Indigenous Protected management with an emphasis on the Indigenous community. & Conserved Areas Lead This work has varied from helping communities develop their internal land management readiness, building collaborative management I am a planner, designer, and creative problem solver with a passion relationships between community and external governments, for building adaptive capacity. I am of Tāłtān, Taku-River Tlingit and developing planning approaches and land management plans Irish-British ancestry. I grew up in Whitehorse, Yukon, in the territory based on the community’s world view and many other related of the Ta’an Kwachan Council and Kwanlin Dun First Nations, and activities. I have also worked in many other land related areas now call the territory of the Shíshalh Nation home (Sunshine Coast, including helping to shape provincial and national land management BC). I have a Bachelor of Arts in Environment and Development, with policy and approaches at a senior level. One of my recent notable minors in geography & psychology from McGill University and a public policy projects was as one member of a two-person panel to Master of Architecture from UBC. provide recommendations on the future of BC’s old growth forest management. The panel’s final report A“ New Future for Old Forests” I have 20 years’ experience working with individuals, communities, contained fourteen transformative recommendations which were and all levels of governments in the Yukon and BC in land planning, adopted in their entirety by the BC government. community engagement, environmental management, and design. I am most comfortable when navigating a space of ambiguity This lifetime of work has helped me prepare for the responsibility and complexity. I use design thinking as a practical and creative of assuming the role as the Land Use Planning Lead. Based on approach to bring clarity and simplicity to complex situations. direction from the Tahltan community, and with support from the My training in architecture supports my ability for cross-scale
54 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
interdisciplinary thinking that allows me to quickly see patterns and bring together disparate elements into a cohesive whole. My approach to community-based project design and delivery has been recognized as leading the way in global indigenous design practice. Ombrielle Neria The TSI is important to me as it provides an opportunity to work Communications Specialist collaboratively and in an inter-disciplinary way. I see the potential to create meaningful, lasting change for the benefit of the Nation and I am from Indigenous and European ancestry. I have spent my life our territory. It is a foundational project that will require a lot of hard loving, living in, and exploring British Columbia. I spend my days work and will challenge us to work together in new ways. I see it as in the natural beauty of Ts’elxwéyeqw (Chilliwack) where I happily a vehicle for profound healing for our Nation through developing reside with my family. I am blessed to be the mother of two amazing our relationships with one another, with our partners, and with our young boys whom I love and cherish. land. I am excited for this work because I feel that this project is one that brings together all the different aspects of my education and I have a strong background in communications, strategic experience and lets me apply and test my learning and strengths in planning, negotiations, and program development with over 15 a way that few projects have. I am motivated by the challenge and years of experience. I bring expertise developing and executing humbled by the opportunity to work for my Nation. complex communications projects and strategies across multiple organizations, levels of government, and stakeholder groups.
I joined the TCG after working with the Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe, the S’ólh Téméxw Stewardship Alliance, and the Stó:lō Research and Resource Management Centre. There, I led communications initiatives and managed various projects including those within the Collaborative Stewardship Forum (CSF), of which Tahltan is a part through the 3 Nations. My work focused on internal governance, Norm Maclean government-to-government relations, rights and title issues, cultural Technical Advisor heritage and site protections, environmental stewardship, land use planning, economic development, and major projects. I am a wildlife biologist with over 30 years of professional experience in Alaska, Northwest Territories, British Columbia, and Yukon This deeply enjoyable and meaningful work strengthened my territory. I have worked with provincial and territorial environmental ability to navigate the complex legal and political landscape agencies in northwestern British Columbia, and in the Northwest facing First Nations in the Province of British Columbia and in Territories. I have had the privilege of working for the Tahltan Nation Canada. I love crafting powerful narratives, sharing compelling since 2005 as a technical member of Tahltan Heritage Resources stories to support generational change, and building and evolving Environmental Assessment Team (THREAT) and providing technical mechanisms for collaboration and engagement. support for the TCG Lands and Wildlife Departments. I am humbled and grateful for the responsibility to work with the I have expertise on terrestrial ecosystems and wildlife habitats Tahltan Nation. Tahltans are blessed, strong, and determined. I look in boreal forests including conducting multi-year studies, and forward to supporting the Nation and the TSI team to make this management on woodland caribou, moose, and wolves. I have been transformative work a success for the Tahltan people. involved in multiple major project regulatory reviews, permitting reviews, application reviews, and environmental assessments in Tahltan Nation. I have been a GIS spatial analyst for over 25 years and have been involved in developing large mammal habitat models using indigenous, local, and scientific knowledge sources. Finally, I have experience in land use planning including indigenous led, joint indigenous and provincial-territorial land, forestry, and resource management plans. Ryma Aneliunas The TSI is the vehicle to align related Tahltan governance, capacity, GIS Analyst reconciliation, cultural, and land management programs which were previously being delivered through multiple avenues by the TCG. By bringing them under one initiative, it allows for greater advancement of Tahltan land and resource jurisdiction, authorities, and stewardship through Tahltan knowledge and by Tahltan in an open transparent approach.
55 TSI PROJECTS
TSI PROJECTS
The TSI will align related Tahltan governance, reconciliation, land management projects and activities from the TCG Communications, Culture and Heritage, Fisheries, Lands, and Wildlife Departments.
Below is a list of projects under the TSI:
Ȗ Assessment of Ecosystem Ȗ Predator Program Services & Climate Change Resilience Ȗ Tahltan Guardian Program Ȗ Capacity Development Project Ȗ Tahltan Infrastructure Assessment (Energy, Access Ȗ Caribou Stewardship Project and Mineral Potential) Ȗ Communications and Ȗ Tahltan Indigenous Protected and Engagement Conserved Areas (IPCAs) Project Ȗ Cultural Heritage Project Ȗ Tahltan Land Stewardship Plan
Ȗ Ecosystem & Climate Project Ȗ TCG Archives Project
Ȗ Fisheries Stewardship Project Ȗ Water Resources Project
Ȗ GIS Spatial Database Project Ȗ Youth Stewardship Program
Ȗ Land Governance Framework and Operational Policies Project
We look forward to introducing these projects to the Nation in the days and weeks ahead!
56 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
“The Tahltan Nation will fulfill its inherent stewardship responsibilities for all lands, water, wildlife, fish and natural resources in Tahltan Territory.”
57 SECTION TITLE
58 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021 Directors’ Reports
60 — Lands, Nalaine Morin
61 — Wildlife, Lance Nagwan
63 — Fisheries, Cheri Frocklage
67 — Language, Pamela Labonte
73 — Culture & Heritage, Sandra Marion
75 — Education & Training, Cassandra Puckett
77 — Employment & Contracting, Ann Ball
79 — Membership & Genealogy, Shannon Frank
80 — Dease Lake Community, Freda Campbell
59 LANDS – NALAINE MORIN
to be working with this team and to be working with Lands the other TCG Department Directors. We will continue to provide updates through the Lands Department, separate TSI updates, and engagement opportunities Director Report with the Nation. SHARED DECISION-MAKING AGREEMENT
We completed our annual reporting for the Shared Decision-Making Agreement in early March. For 2020, we processed 132 referrals including 42 Notice of Work applications for exploration activities. We also processed 45 archaeology applications, 8 forestry applications and 11 license of occupation applications. The Lands Department, along with the Province is working collaboratively to update our current referrals process. This work for Tahltan will include working more closely with proponents to review applications in draft prior to them being submitted to the Province. This pre-application review will allow lands staff to identify information needs with the proponent early in the process and to work with proponents to identify suitable mitigation measures to address potential environmental and Tahltan concerns with the proposed activities. The pre-application review process is part of an updated Exploration Agreement which will be launched in 2021. We are very pleased to provide an update on several projects we are working on these past couple of months. ESKAY CREEK REVITALIZATION PROJECT As always, our focus is to make positive changes in the way natural resource management is done in Tahltan Territory. The Lands Department and Tahltan Heritage Resources Environmental Assessment Team (THREAT) have been focusing on the Red Chris Mine and the proposed Eskay Nalaine Morin Through the Tahltan Stewardship Initiative (TSI) and Creek Revitalization Project. The Red Chris Mine has Lands Director other projects, the Lands Department staff, along with recently completed two virtual information sessions several people who support our team, are changing with Tahltan members. In these sessions, the company the way Tahltans engage and take a leadership presented information on the two applications filed to approach to support our goal of ensuring that Tahltan support the exploration program for the proposed block lands are managed for future generations. cave mine development. The applications support the development of a box cut and adit. The box cut application TAHLTAN STEWARDSHIP INITIATIVE has been approved and an amendment Mines Act permit has been issued. Earth works for the box cut is well The Tahltan Stewardship Initiative (TSI) project continues underway. The application for the adit has been reviewed to advance with a strong team that works together and and summary reports for the engagement activities are believes in the project and its overall vision. The TSI has completed. Technical representatives from both THREAT finished its first year and in that time, we have developed and Newcrest meet on a regular basis to review the a project charter, a comprehensive workplan and budget, proposed activities for the proposed mine expansion. and several stewardship projects through both the Fisheries and Wildlife Departments. In 2021, additional The Lands Department is working with Skeena stewardship projects will be completed, including Resources and the Province to develop a project additional fisheries, water, wildlife, and archaeology charter for the proposed Eskay Creek Revitalization studies. The TSI will also be working on projects with Project. A draft project description has been each of the natural resource departments (Fish, Lands developed and is in the final stages of review. Skeena and Wildlife) to identify department needs and develop a is proposing the development of an open pit mine long-term plan to increase capacity. It is an exciting time operation for the old Eskay Creek mine site.
60 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Wildlife Director Report
The TCG Wildlife Department will continue implementation of the Predator Management Plan for the upcoming 2021/2022 season, including supporting members harvesting predators throughout the year.
It is expected the program will continue to expand on wolf and bear removals. This can include aerial culls for wolves.
NORTHERN MOUNTAIN CARIBOU COMPOSITION SURVEY
Currently, the Northern Mountain Population (NMP) Woodland Caribou Herds are considered in decline Lance Nagwan TAHLTAN PREDATOR PROGRAM by BC and Tahltan. TCG has commenced their own Wildlife Director Caribou Management Program based on Tahltan The Guardian Program completed a successful wolf knowledge, guide outfitter knowledge, and local trapping season and removed twelve wolves this past knowledge indicating changes in population numbers, winter trapping season. Nine of the wolves were removed decreased recruitment, and changes in seasonal along the Telegraph Creek Road and three wolves ranges. It is believed the changing climate and removed within proximity of the community of Iskut. increasing predator numbers are some of the primary causes for these changes. The Tahltan Incentivised Harvesting Program has taken an additional fourteen wolves out of various Recent TCG Wildlife Department survey packs within the territory. Additionally, the Tahltan numbers from 2021 Central Government (TCG) Wildlife Department was able to capture and deploy sixteen collars on Level Mountain – Kawdy Plateau 1,154 ten different packs within the Traditional Territory. The GPS data and locations are being collected Tseneglode 626 for establishing baseline information. The pack information will be used to determine management Edziza 29 strategy for the upcoming winter.
61 WILDLIFE – LANCE NAGWAN
TAHLTAN / BC WILDLIFE ACCORD
The Wildlife Accord is an opportunity for resolving Year 1 Workplan Framework, the approach is to follow foundational wildlife management challenges. the existing schedule as identified with the Moose Resolving these challenges will enable the parties to Stewardship Plan project currently commencing co-design and jointly determine the pathway to world through the 3 Nations Society and B.C. Collaborative class wildlife management within Tahltan Territory. Stewardship Framework (CSF).
The goals are to have greater shared decision making KLAPPAN MOOSE SURVEY for wildlife in the Nation and to mitigate probable land use and hunting conflicts this upcoming season. Parties The TCG Wildlife Department has recently conducted will agree to work together to identify strategic and a composition survey of the Klappan Moose operational policy, as well as current regulatory barriers Management Unit. to advance the concept of co-governance. The parties will also work together to reduce conflicts with licensed March 2021: 186 Moose hunters and land users in Tahltan Territory.
The Wildlife Working Group will table these items with the Steering Committee, as required, to advance solutions on the matter. The TCG Wildlife Director and the Conservation Officer Service (COS) have been developing a joint approach to monitoring the upcoming hunting season. Current challenges relate to the existing barriers and gates. The COS has indicated that they will not patrol any area that has a physical barrier present.
62 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Fisheries Director Report
2021 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS
Conservation measures will remain in effect for Stikine Chinook/King Salmon. No Allowable Catch and no directed fisheries in Canada or the USA. Closure of the Tahltan River for angling/rod fishing.
Stikine River Sockeye
Management objectives in place for 108,000 Tahltan Lake and Mainstem stocks Ten Year Average:
2021 Terminal Run Forecast: 56,000
Tahltan Lake
Escapement Goal Range: 18,000 – 30,000 Cheri Frocklage 2021 STIKINE RIVER Management Objective: 24,000 Fisheries Director SALMON FORECASTS Ten Year Average: 67,000 The 2021 Stikine River Salmon forecasts were presented to the Pacific Salmon Commission – 2021 Terminal Run Forecast: 28,000 Transboundary River Panel at the pre-season meeting in February. It is not looking good for both Chinook Tahltan Wild Sockeye: 9,000 and Sockeye runs for the upcoming fishing season. Tahltan Enhanced Sockeye: 19,000
Stikine River Chinook (Large) Mainstem
Escapement Goal Range: 14,000 – 28,000 Escapement Goal Range: 20,000 – 40,000
Management Objective: 17,400 Management Objective: 30,000
Ten Year Average: 18,500 Ten Year Average: 41,000
2021 Terminal Run Forecast: 9,900 2021 Terminal Run Forecast: 28,000
Canada and USA have both been allocated a very limited Total Allowable Catch (TAC) under the Pacific Salmon Treaty. Canada 940 – USA 1,060.
63 FISHERIES – CHERI FROCKLAGE
In efforts to conserve Chinook, the USA will delay the fishing season and subject to penalties under the Pacific Above: TCG Fisheries opening of their Sockeye fisheries to avoid incidental Salmon Treaty. We are trying to manage the salmon Department staff at the Spring Training Bootcamp. catches of Stikine bound Chinook salmon. The USA using historical data and management tools that in has domestically allocated their marginal Sockeye recent years are proving to be unreliable. Environmental allocation to the District 106-41 marine fishery and factors that are not understood are influencing the their in-river subsistence fishery. production and survival of our stocks. CONSERVATION is paramount and we must all do our part. Canada has allocated its TAC to the First Nation Fishery. There will be no opportunity for a Sockeye FISHERIES STAFF SPRING commercial harvest on the Stikine River this fishing TRAINING BOOTCAMP season due to the poor forecast for both Tahltan Lake and Mainstem Sockeye stocks. The TCG Fisheries Manager, Kerry Carlick, has been working diligently to pull together the 2021 Fisheries TCG Fisheries Department strongly encourages our Department staff training schedule to ensure the health members to continue the practice of conserving and safety of our field staff while they conduct their our depleted Chinook salmon stocks by not directly various stock assessment duties. The following is a fishing for them. We must adjust our way of thinking summary of their upcoming courses: if the Tahltan River Chinook stocks are to ever stand a • Fisheries Field Skills Certificate – April 16 online chance at re-building. Along with our Aboriginal Rights electrofishing course (10-day course) to harvest, is the inherent obligation to conserve and protect these salmon, even at the cost of forgoing our • Working Safe Near Water Certification (formerly harvest. Over the course of conducting our Sockeye Swiftwater Rescue) – April 17- 18 fishery, we intercept migrating Chinook, so we ask • Level 1 First Aid & Transportation Endorsement that our members release any healthy King salmon – April 19-20 from your net, allowing them to continue on with their journey to the spawning grounds. • All Terrain Vehicle Certification – April 21-22 • Fisheries Field Skills Certificate – April 23-May 1 The low forecast for Tahltan Lake Sockeye is concerning. Therefore, we encourage our members to fish in a If you are interested in seeking employment with conservative fashion. Take only what you need for the TCG Fisheries Department as a Field Technician, your immediate household. Our food fishery takes an please send your resume to our Fisheries Manager, average of 5,500 Sockeye annually. This alone will Kerry Carlick at [email protected] put Canada into an overharvest situation for the 2021
64 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
2020 MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENT FOR THE TCG FISHERIES DEPARTMENT
Ȗ Formation of the Tahltan Lake Dam Joint Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) / Tahltan Central Government Fisheries Department (TCGFD) Working Group
Tahltan Lake is a unique area that is of high cultural our expression of frustrations with the existing process, and fisheries importance. It provides the key food contact information was provided to elevate the issue fishery source to our Tahltan First Nation harvesters. to senior representatives at DFO Real Properties. Prior In addition to the cultural values, it is also the location correspondence was provided to them for review and of a long-term Sockeye salmon stock assessment consideration. In January 2021, the Fisheries Director and enhancement program. The dam at the outlet of provided additional correspondence to the Acting the lake serves multiple purposes including providing Regional Director for DFO Real Properties, Safety & a means of maintaining or adjusting the lake level, Security with a TCGFD legislative review of the Dam controlling lake access, and providing a work platform rehabilitation process for Tahltan Lake. We provided for Sockeye enumeration and sampling. recommendations to: (1) Move the Dam Failure Consequence Classification up to “very high”; (2) To The original dam was constructed around 1959. use requirements of the Regulation to frame a working In 1982, the (overflow) or river left portion of the dam group approach to rehabilitating the Tahltan Lake dam. was rebuilt and the main spillway section was fortified. New decking was installed about 13 years ago, but We had our first meeting on January 29 and received not much more was done in terms of the structural a project status update from Real Properties and integrity of the dam at that time. The existing dam has a draft Terms of Reference (ToR) for the Tahltan no concrete components, only wood, rocks, and earth. Lake Dam Working Group. Subsequent meetings With the constant pressures of water and ice over were held on February 18 and March 5 for further the years, the condition of the dam has deteriorated discussions, document and data sharing, as well as and the wooden structure has begun to deform. With development of the Draft ToR. I am very pleased to rotting timbers and water seepage, the stability of the report that the Working Group has been established. dam is weakening. Failure of the dam would not only The Tahltan Fisheries Department recently provided compromise the Tahltan Sockeye assessment and a memorandum to the working group to provide enhancement programs but could also cause a safety the opportunity to discuss, in concept, what the threat to field personnel. The dam design needs to be new dam and weir arrangements needs are from an enduring and re-built to higher standards; for example, operational perspective and a conceptual diagram of it should be able to withstand a 100-year flood event. the new structure. Engagement with DFO on the weir replacement will be ongoing throughout the year with The Tahltan Fisheries Program submitted a proposal finalization of the design targeted for early fall 2021. to the Pacific Salmon Commission (PSC) – Northern Endowment Fund in 2015 to pursue this restoration project. We were advised that the DFO Real Properties would be undertaking the design and remediation of this failing structure.
Between 2015 and 2020, we were becoming increasingly frustrated with the lack of meaningful consultation and overall disregard for recommendations put forward from the Tahltan Fisheries Department. Following the December 2020 DFO/TCG meeting and
65 FISHERIES – CHERI FROCKLAGE
Below: Tahltan Lake in winter slumber – March 2021. Photo: Patrick Hudson.
66 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Language Director Report
It is these words that have stayed close to her heart as she navigates through her own language journey. Hostełmā hopes they can also be of inspiration to others who are embarking on or continuing their own journeys. Another quote she deeply connects with is the words spoken by Richard Wagamese. He said, “If you don’t practice your culture or speak your language, then residential school is successful.” She wanted to share this quote as an inspirational reminder to empower others to speak the language and practice culture as much as they can – despite any barriers in the way.
Melva Quock “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart.” Pamela Labonte Spring is a season of new beginnings and fresh starts, – Nelson Mandela Language Director so it is the perfect time for pause to reflect on the journey behind. When I look back on the seasons since I chose this inspirational quote because when I am joining TCG, I see a rewarding time full of energy with a spoken to in Tahltan or when I hear others’ conversations constant flow of movement in positive directions. in our language, it is truly an emotional connection for me. I feel the language and I breathe it. I connect I have worked hard to cultivate a synergetic environment through stories that my late parents told growing up. that creates a harmonious space for everyone to work on My experience as a language learner has been fun, exciting, initiatives and develop Tałtan proficiencies. As Language very rewarding, and at times tough. You can make it as Director, I wholeheartedly believe everyone has a space in fun as you want, the sky is the limit. The exciting part of learning your language is you get in touch with your reclamation initiatives. I look forward to what this coming physical feelings and actions. The rewards of being with year brings as the months unfold. my Elders, mentors, and other language learners has kept me connected with my culture and strengthens my feelings of pride and self-worth. At times it is tough to stay fully immersed in the language and to listen from the heart and not the head. I believe it is by personal experience Hostełmā Pauline Hawkins for one to truly feel and experience the transition.
Quotes have a way of expressing what we sometimes It is an amazing journey and I encourage everyone cannot articulate clearly, and at times, they can speak to use our Tahltan language daily, take time for your directly to the heart. Hostełmā’s father, Khamda, the Elders, and pass on your learning so it can be passed late Patrick Carlick Sr., used to say: down to generations to come. These are my thoughts to share. Thank you for sparking my light of learning. “Culture and language go hand in hand. I look forward to my language learning journey with If you lose one, you lose the other.” you and working towards a legacy that will be there for generations to come.
Mēduh Espāne (friend)
67 LANGUAGE – PAMELA LABONTE
Language Department high level achievements for 2020 include:
RE-ESTABLISHED THE TCG ESTABLISHED THE FOUNDATIONS LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT FOR FUTURE LANGUAGE INITIATIVES
The latter part of this year brought the re-establishment Behind the scenes, we have spent countless sweat of the TCG Language Department as an integral part equity hours establishing foundations for future of TCG. We will continue to forge a strong path as we initiatives that are aligned within the Strategic build capacity through the restructuring phases. Language Plan for this upcoming year. A vital part of this process includes ensuring supports are in Throughout the past months, we maintained regular place in all areas so that multi-faceted approaches communications with internal and external stakeholders to language reclamation are successful. to ensure transparency and collaboration in all initiatives. As we set the stage for the future, these past months A few initiatives that have already been of planning entailed close collaboration with TCG implemented include: Leadership and other departments. I would like to give special mention to the close partnership between the 1. FirstVoices (FV) Language and Culture & Heritage Departments. Much of the work between these two departments is closely “Being on the FirstVoices portal is a way to intertwined. We will continue to work together on identify who we are as First Nations people in BC initiatives when there is opportunity to do so. and evidence of the diversity of languages here.” Moving forward, the Language Department will continue – Kathy Cottrell to engage on a deeper level with membership and other TCG Departments, providing our full support so language Tałtan is a represented language on FirstVoices and can be integrated into all areas of the TCG and the Nation. is a valuable resource to Tahltan people and those interested in the language. When speaking to people DEVELOPED A STRATEGIC about its’ benefits, a recurring theme has been that this LANGUAGE PLAN online platform provides accessibility to language and allows people to connect with the language who may Other top highlights from this year included developing otherwise not currently do so. a multi-year, Strategic Language Plan that aligns with the department’s vision and mission on a Nation-wide The Tałtan FirstVoices portal is a great resource to level. We will continue developing an organizational listen to fluent speakers and become comfortable framework that promotes consistency as we define hearing the language, gaining confidence in speaking department roles and positions that establish parody through repetition from the comfort of your own among positions and between departments. As home, learning the Tałtan writing system and the this work progresses, we will continue to employ individual sounds associated with each letter(s). those whose skills align with needed positions and compensate fairly based on classifications. You can visit the FirstVoices website at firstvoices.com to browse through the existing repository of Tāłtān REJUVENATED THE TCG words and sentences. LANGUAGE WEBSITE Be sure to read through the FirstVoices Progress We are collaborating with the Communications Report for more details on what the team has Department on a fun and creative initiative that I am anxious to share with everyone. Led by the been up to as they continue the work on year two Communications team, the culmination of this of the project that was started under the direction partnership will reveal a rejuvenated website that and guidance of the former language team. includes the most current information reflective of the dynamics of the TCG Language Department.
68 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
IMPLEMENTED LANGUAGE INITIATIVES CONTINUED
2. TCG Mentor Apprentice Theresa Etzerza (MAP Mentor) Program (MAP) “Right now, Hayle and I have just started working The TCG MAP is a custom, multi-faceted program together on Tāłtān language. For the beginner designed to promote the development of proficient student, she knows a lot. How to pronounce the Tāłtān speakers through an immersion setting. The words correctly, read, and write in the language. I am program’s overarching goal is to facilitate language helping her learn how to speak in fluent sentences development through a close partnership between through Tāłtān immersion sessions. Basically, we are a fluent language speaker (Mentor) and a language really learning from one another. I am really enjoying learner (Apprentice). The program creates opportunities working with Hayle. We are doing our best and every for language learners to develop proficiencies beyond mistake is an opportunity to learn and laugh.” a beginner or intermediate level as is common in other settings such as classrooms, online learning, etc. Dhakāle Hayle Gallup (MAP Apprentice)
This custom program consists of two components: “I am so grateful to be learning from Theresa. I started learning the Tāłtān language a few years ago but 1 . Learning the language; and could only progress so much on my own. It takes a 2 . Resource development lot of motivation and discipline to incorporate it into your daily life. Often, I would find myself slacking and Within these two components, there are three tiers. this made me feel guilty. Other language mentors of Participant tier placement is determined by how mine encouraged me to pursue a Mentor Apprentice much time the Mentor/Apprentice can commit to the Program, so that is what I did. So far, it has been program and whether the Apprentice would like to amazing. Working with Theresa is such a gift and be involved in the program’s resource development truly lifts my spirits throughout the week. I am looking aspect associated with tier 2/3. forward to learning how to carry a full conversation in the language. It is my goal to become a fluent speaker For successful program outcomes, the Apprentice of the Tāłtān language and I am so grateful for all needs to be immersed in the language. This means the the support from other language learners /speakers Mentor and Apprentice only speak Tāłtān during their in our community. Mēduh for always pushing and time together. This is a special relationship between encouraging me.” individuals and requires a level of commitment and dedication to the program like no other. Because of the customized element, we can be creative with program hours and explore other immersion opportunities to develop proficiencies. This flexibility is especially important during pandemic times of following COVID-19 safety guidelines. I think it is safe to say the TCG MAP is more of a lifestyle choice than a program! Please feel free to contact me for more details.
69 LANGUAGE – PAMELA LABONTE
3. Tāłtān Dictionary Project Partnership – TCG is partnering with The Language Conservancy (TLC), a not-for-profit organization that TCG is in the early stages of developing a multi-modal specializes in dictionary development in this context. Tāłtān dictionary that builds on the foundations of Collaborating with TLC will allow us to develop a the existing Tahltan Children's Illustrated Dictionary. dictionary in approximately one year (opposed to many Development will entail working with Elders and years) using innovative approaches to documentation speakers to guide the process of documenting language – Rapid Word Collection (RWC). They have adapted and making sure it is visible and accessible to Tahltans their processes during unprecedented COVID-19 times in and out of the territory. It is also the cornerstone for to successfully conduct all work safely and remotely – future resources and learning materials. using innovative technologies that were borne out of need during the COVID-19 pandemic. I firmly believe this is one of the most rewarding projects we could do in terms of language Who owns the materials in the end? All documented reclamation and bringing people together through information, recordings, resources, etc., will belong to language work. This is a Nation-wide initiative, and the Tahltan Nation/Tahltan people via development I would like to ensure everyone who wants the through this TCG initiative. opportunity to be involved, has the opportunity. We are just in the infancy stages of this project. These A multi-modal dictionary means the dictionary will beginning stages are all about creating awareness include the audio (for pronunciation) and written form and providing information. To date, we have held for each documented word/narrative in each dialect Q&A information sessions outlining the development or language variation. A complete dictionary creates process and other important details. an accurate pronunciation guide for each dialect and ensures the language is pronounced accurately for I want to highlight that all work will be guided by the generations to come. It also provides learners with Tahltan Nation COVID-19 Emergency Management the confidence that comes from having a tool to learn Team (TNCEMPT). Next steps include working with the Tāłtān words with accurate pronunciation. It ensures Tahltan Emergency Management Committee (EMC) everyone can engage with the language no matter and developing a logistics plan in conjunction with where they live – in or out of territory. them so that all work proceeds safely and within the guidelines of the Nation. What about the existing Tahltan Children's Illustrated Dictionary? We will be adding to the existing Children’s dictionary and integrating all information into one We welcome everyone who wants the opportunity centralized platform. to be involved in this work to reach out to me • New words and narratives will be recorded anytime: [email protected] and look and added. forward to sharing progress for each phase of this • There will be a web-based dictionary and an app available. exciting initiative over the next year.
• The app will be free on both the Apple App Store for iPhones and the Google Play Store for Android phones. Once downloaded, users can access the entire dictionary even without internet or cell service.
70 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
New Language Department Staff
I am beyond pleased to report we are on a successful path of building capacity within the department with a strong team who has a shared vision of trust, accountability, and transparency in carrying out the TCG Language Department’s vision and mission . Please join me in welcoming Skye Whiting and Hayle Gallup as our newest members to the growing team .
Skye Whiting – Technician, FirstVoices
My name is Edzona, Skye Whiting. I was given my Tahltan name by my great grandpa Charley Callbreath. As a young child, one of my favourite things when visiting was listening to his stories, as well as my great granny Julia’s. They taught me how to say Nedishcha. I cannot say it without hearing them and remembering.
Born and raised on the West Coast, I feel most at home when I am outdoors enjoying the beauty of nature, be it running with my dogs, or exploring with my family. I have always had an interest in my Tahltan history and culture. To be a part of this journey to keep our language alive is a huge honour. I hope to gain new knowledge and be a positive contribution to the team with my eagerness to learn and skills in writing. With a daughter of my own, I know I will be able to pass it on to her and I hope she Skye Whiting will pass it on in the future.
Dhakāle Hayle Gallup – MAP Participant
Dhakale Hayle Gallup is Tahltan First Nations on her mother’s side and has unknown settler ancestry on her father’s side. She is Chi’yōne clan from the Thudga family. Her mother is May Quock and grandmother is Bernice Quock. Dhakāle is an educator, filmmaker, language learner, and activist. She obtained a Bachelor of Elementary Education Degree from the University of Victoria on the unceded territory of the Lekwungen speaking peoples. She is passionate about culturally responsive/relevant education, land-based teaching, education for reconciliation, and language/culture revitalization.
She is passionate about learning the language and is currently an elementary school teacher at the Dease Lake School. Alongside her teaching commitments, Dhakāle Dhakāle Hayle Gallup is committed to learning her language through the TCG Mentor Apprentice Program (MAP) where she spends time immersed in Tałtan with a fluent speaker.
Developing a proficiency in the language is Dhakāle’s path of healing that will be passed on in the community through her career as an educator. She comes into this work first and foremost as a learner and helper. She looks forward to living, working, and learning more about who she is as a Tahltan woman in territory.
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FirstVoices (FV) Progress Report – Kathy Cottrell and Skye Whiting
Since January, we progressed with the work into year two of this project by continuing to upload words and phrases to the FirstVoices portal. This work was already in progress from the first year of the FV project when it was guided under the direction of the former language team. We were able to pick up where we left off and continue somewhat seamlessly into year two of the project. We have been busy these past months getting back into the groove of editing outstanding audio and preparing the remaining documented language. We have also been working with First Peoples’ Cultural Council (FPCC) to ensure all remaining words and phrases from where we left off last year were published and visible to all registered users on the FirstVoices portal.
It is important to acknowledge that all words and phrases on the portal are sourced from the two existing resources: 1) Tahltan Children’s Illustrated Dictionary; and (2) Basic Tahltan Conversation Lessons. More information about these resources and the associated audio recordings can be found on the FV portal.
To date, we are pleased to report we have finished submitting all the words and phrases from both sources. In total, there are 954 words and 949 phrases uploaded from The Tahltan Children’s Illustrated Dictionary and 492 words and phrases from Basic Tahltan Conversation Lessons. Some have more than one audio file included to account for both language dialects and variations.
Immediate next steps include a comprehensive quality review that will check for any errors, omissions, or redundancies that need to be addressed. Also, watch for new images to be added soon to accompany the vocabulary. This addition will allow for more words to be available in the games section.
PROTIPS:
• Get comfortable and familiarize yourself with the FirstVoices portal. Navigate through each section at your own pace and watch your confidence grow in your ability to use the site.
• When using the Tałtan FirstVoices portal, we recommend checking out the games section first as you explore the content. A suggestion is to start with the Memory and Quiz game. Next, the Word Scramble is a great place to practice the language. Parachute is also good after you have learned a few words and/ or phrases with the previous games. For kids, the easier games to navigate are Memory, Jigsaw, Quiz and Word Search.
• Another helpful hint is to print off the Tałtan Alphabet Chart for personal study and to familiarize yourself with the Tałtan orthography and pronunciation. This resource can be found on the portal and on the TCG language website.
• Haven’t registered for the Tāłtān FirstVoices portal yet? Visit firstvoices.com to register for full access and let your journey begin.
72 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Culture & Heritage Director Report
Sandra Marion The Culture & Heritage Department Culture & Heritage is excited to announce that we will Director be working with Carmen Dennis, our Cultural Team Lead.
TCG and Tahltan Band will be partnering on this role, as Carmen currently works with the Peoples Haven under the Tahltan Band. We have already hit the ground running, ordering supplies to start assembling sewing kits, which will be sent out to Tahltan members irrespective of their place of residence. We also look forward to launching online Zoom classes to assist with sewing, beading, and embroidery, as well as to start online gatherings to practice songs and possibly dancing techniques. Please keep your eye out for those activities soon!
Top: Benny Neehas – Telegraph Creek. BC Archives E-01147.
Above: Jack Macdonald's truck the first in town – Telegraph Creek. BC Archives E-01152.
73 CULTURE & HERITAGE – SANDRA MARION
Culture has always been a part of my life; from the time I was a young girl right up until now, as I am raising my own two daughters.
Summer has always been the time to go to fish camp, to pick berries, and spend time with visiting family and friends. I love getting out in the fall, enjoying the cool autumn air and colours, and to hunt and quad. Winter, I do not get out much, but I have done some hunting and snaring in the past. Mostly I work on a lot of beading and sewing projects! Spring is a good time, which is when my family and I can get out of the house after being cooped up most of the winter. We like to go quadding and hunt for chicken. Every season has something to offer and teach.
Art has been a passion of mine since I was a young girl. I started off with small sketches and copying cartoon Carmen Dennis characters by free hand. I studied art from Grade 8 until graduation with one of the best teachers and mentor, Cultural Team Lead Chad Palmer. I learned different techniques using pencil, pen, and markers, and I also learned how to work with I am from the Crow Clan (Tses’kiye), I have Chinese other mediums such as watercolour, pastels, acrylic ancestry and am a member of the Shoe Kawk/Howd-A- paints, and ink. Ghtte family. I have lived in my home territory all my life and grew up following our traditional cultural beliefs, 2010 was a turning point for my passion of art. values, and practices. I have two young daughters who It was the year I started learning how to bead and are being raised with the same beliefs and values that I have grown up with. sew using traditional techniques, patterns, and design under the tutelage of Penny Louie. I have also been learning how to work on moose hide using traditional methods and techniques.
In the past eleven years, I have grown as an artist, mother, and a member of my Nation. I continue to learn and teach our culture and beliefs. I look forward to bringing my passion, experience, and knowledge to my role as Cultural Team Lead.
74 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Education & Training Director Report
Using partnership opportunities with the Iskut Band, the Tahltan Band, and local Indigenous employment & skills training organizations within BC and Alberta, we can support an increased number of Tahltans in their educational endeavours. Thus far, we have 70 Tahltan students applying for funding for the 2020/2021 academic year. To date, we have provided funding to 40 students with ongoing summer student application submissions.
Category # of Students $ Amount
Short-Term 1 $979.12 Certifications
Post-Secondary 36 $218,761.29 Education
Trades Training 3 $6092.83
Total 40 $225,833.24 Cassandra Puckett While COVID-19 continues to impact Education & Training Education and Training opportunities Director Total investment of education funding for Tahltan within Tahltan Territory, we are students for the 2020/2021 academic year. excited to share that there has been a Category # of Students $ Amount substantial increase in the number of Tahltans applying to the Education & TCG Education & 40 $225,833.24 Training Department Training Department and participating funding in post-secondary, trades, and short- External funding 21 $132,982.08 term certificates. partners Total 61 $358,815.32
75 EDUCATION & TRAINING – CASSANDRA PUCKETT
SEABRIDGE GOLD BURSARY AWARDS
The first-ever Seabridge Gold Bursary opportunity closed on February 15th, 2021, with a total of 25 applicants in post-secondary, skills development/trades, and community developments.
The following Tahltans received Seabridge Gold Bursary The Seabridge Gold Bursary program stems from the awards totaling $40,000. Tahltan Nation’s Impact Benefit Agreement signed with the company a couple years ago and will be Post-Secondary an ongoing commitment moving forward. We are blessed to have several financial contributions from 1st Place Benjamin Chief our agreements with industry that support Tahltan members participating in post-secondary education, 2nd Place Kody Penner apprenticeships, trade, or skill development programs.
3rd Place Kyle Risby As the department continues to evolve, expand, and 4th Place Haley McLean seek ways to be innovative in implementing the Education and Training policies, the TCG Education 5th Place Taylor Peterson & Training Director is focusing on increasing trades participation in anticipation of upcoming projects 6th Place Richelle Frocklage such as IR #13 and related mining activity. We must 7th Place Tanner Foreman continue to ensure Tahltan members are poised for opportunities as they arise both locally and outside of 8th Place Alysha Johnny Hawkins territory, including supporting Tahltan entrepreneurs from an education and training lens while working 9th Place Sebastien Bob collaboratively with the TCG Employment & 10th Place Callison Foreman Contracting Director to provide seamless support across TCG Departments. 12th Place Dylan Chapdelaine
13th Place Leanne Collins
14th Place Levi Sladen
15th Place Leanne Woods
16th Place Jonathen Adsit
Skills & Development (Trades) Bursaries:
1st Place Megan Rousseau
2nd Place Keegan Zubek
Community Capacity Development Bursaries:
1st Place Tina Etzerza
2nd Place Agneslyn Dennis
3rd Place Brandi MacAulay
76 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Employment & Contracting Director Report
Exciting movement is occurring in the Tahltan businesses policy. It is well understood that this is a very important policy for the Tahltan Nation and that talks in this area have gone on for over twenty years. A draft of the policy was put forth to the TCG Family Representatives and Chief and Councils in early April to take back to their respective groups. An interim definition has been adopted by the TCG to accommodate the easy part of the policy: “The 51% and up, with proof of ownership within their financial structures; but initially beginning with a written and signed letter stating they believe that their company meets the interim definition approved by the TCG.”
Engagement on the business policy will continue in a staged format and it may take a few months to get it right. This is a very complex policy, and it is our intention to ensure that TNDC remains our protected Nation’s company that is owned by our collective people through Ann Ball The transition into my new role is moving forward and the Tahltan Band, Iskut Band and the TCG. Employment & most companies operating within Tahltan Territory Contracting Director have been contacted with the expectations that the An OnTrack Tahltan business registry data base is being TCG Employment & Contracting Department has for developed. Now that the Tahltan Central Government them. Tahltan Territory is experiencing high volumes has an interim definition of a Tahltan company, my of exploration this year, which means that there is a lot objective is to ensure that all mining partnerships of work this summer. With the amalgamation of the and exploration companies within Tahltan Territory roles of Employment Director and Contracting Director, have access to a defined registry of approved and we can better advocate for the Tahltan Nation in these registered Tahltan companies. To register, please reach areas as they complement each other. out to the Employment & Contracting Department at [email protected] to get the information My mandate is to advocate and that will be required in the interim to be registered for enforce the employment and business the OnTrack Tahltan business registry. opportunities in the Tahltan Territory, primarily the opportunities outlined in Impact Benefit Agreements (IBAs) and/or other industrial activities.
77 EMPLOYMENT & CONTRACTING – ANN BALL
Opportunity Agreements have been revamped for inclusion of all registered Tahltan businesses and the objective is to have these signed with every mineral exploration partnership we have in Tahltan Territory. Opportunity Agreements are what the TCG will have in place with exploration companies, so that they will also be held at a high standard to work in cooperation with our Nation to maximize Tahltan employment and business opportunities on their projects.
OnTrack is starting to grab some momentum and we encourage all Tahltan members and associates to register. This site will contain our overall Tahltan HR data base. The mining, exploration, TNDC, TNDC Joint Ventures (JVs), TCG, Tahltan and Iskut Bands along with Tahltan businesses can post jobs to the platform and Tahltans can apply directly to positions on this site. OnTrack has many more uses for assisting with advancement in careers. At minimum, please register a profile and complete the resume and certifications sections. The Nation is interested in the overall skill set that our Tahltan people represent. OnTrack is the way we can show how skilled and qualified our workforce truly is.
The Tahltan Resource Forum, held from April 19 - May 18, 2021, had several mining and exploration companies as well as Tahltan businesses registered. Although this was the first time, we have provided such an online event, we feel that it brings a broader view for all Tahltans to see what types of employment and contracting opportunities are available for our Tahltan people. Since the Tahltan Resource Forum basically was in place for the job fair, we utilized the opportunity to ensure OnTrack was a key subject throughout the event.
In closing, if you are a Tahltan employee or business looking for opportunities, please reach out to me at [email protected].
78 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Membership & Genealogy Director Report
Fellow Tahltans. A call out to update.
Is it easy to do? Yes, it is very easy to do and you can do it anytime by going to our website: www.tahltan.org
What do I need to do exactly? Simple. 1 . Go to the TCG website. 3 . Scroll down to the Contact Update Form section and click on Contact Update Form. 2 . At the top of the home page (upper right) click on Tahltan Membership. 4 . Fill out and click Submit.
How often should I update my information? We need you to update your contact information regularly so we can keep you informed. We distribute updates not only regarding elections, but also with critical information for Shannon Frank you and your family, such as Impact Benefit Agreement (IBA) votes, employment and Membership & Genealogy Director training opportunities, scholarships, education, and much more.
Are there any other reasons to update my information? For additional information please contact: Yes! And this is especially true for: Shannon Frank Teenagers and Young Adults – When Babies and Children – If you have a new Director of Membership & Genealogy registering children, parents use their own baby, or if you have children that may or informationdirector@tahltan .org email addresses and phone numbers. As may not be registered, please complete those children grow older and begin to and submit a new membership form on Roxanne Ball think about future education and training their behalf. This ensures their registration Membership Clerk opportunities, they need to update their and their eligibility for TCG programming. roxanne ball@tahltan. .org email, phone number, and address to stay Moved/Moving – If you have moved it is current and to receive information. very important to update your information. Married Recently/Name Change – If you Passings – It is important for our vital have decided to change your legal name statics to be accurate. Please register the you must update your information and passing of any Tahltan members with us report your name change. to guarantee our information is correct.
Transparency is very important to us. Therefore, please register and update your information regularly to stay current on all things affecting Tahltans.
79 MEMBERSHIP & GENEALOGY – SHANNON FRANK · DEASE LAKE COMMUNITY – FREDA CAMPBELL
Dease Lake Community Director Report
I am looking forward to having Contact North provide the community with online learning opportunities and I am seeking to find a home for our learning centre. I understand that there is a need for a space for TWILD and the Tahltan Band to provide programs for youth, Elders and community members and I am seeking to find a venue for that as well. We have a need for a gym for community members to work out and I am looking forward to finding a home for that, too. In addition to finding homes for services that will serve the community members of Dease Lake, we will continue to accept funding proposals from community members.
A big mēduh to Cheri Frocklage and Christina Callbreath for donating their time to sit on the Dease Lake Community Funds Committee; it is a privilege to work with both.
During these times of COVID–19, community engagement is difficult, but I was able to learn about community needs by working with School District 87, the Dease Lake School, Kim Rowe of The Haven, Curtis Rattray of TWILD and with the Dease Lake Emergency Management Committee. I have also participated in Wellness Wednesday at the Dease Lake School.
Freda Campbell In addition to this, I have reviewed the Tahltan Band Dease Lake Community Comprehensive Plan, the Tahltan Band Community Director Council and Administration Strategic Visioning and Work Planning 2019, 3 Nations and School District 87 Education Partnership Agreement and Tahltan Nation Strategic Governance Plan 2015 – 2020.
As a result, I have learned a great deal about the resources that are available in Dease Lake, the needs in Dease Lake and some of the gaps. I am looking forward to addressing the gaps and needs while continuing to climb my learning curve in this new role.
80 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Profiles Personal
Beatrice & Bill McPhee. Circa 1970’s.
81 PERSONAL PROFILES – BILL MCPHEE
ELDER
skills. Also, he attended fish camp every year and Bill McPhee caught salmon to dry and brine so the family had food throughout the year. Everyone had to work together to survive and Bill always did his part to help the community.
When Bill was old enough, he moved to Dawson Creek to attend high school. After a few years he decided to travel to Cassiar where he operated heavy equipment and was the youngest operator on site. He then moved to the United States because of his dual citizenship and nine months later found himself being drafted for the Vietnam War. This would be a massive lifestyle change coming from the village of Telegraph Creek to being a part of the US Army. After basic training, he travelled to Vietnam as part of the engineer core where he built machine gun bunkers, roads, bridges and more. This was a life changing experience that was tough, but he says that the comradery of his group kept him From hunting moose in remote areas going, even through the roughest of times. of Tahltan Territory by dog sleigh, to building machine gun bunkers in the Vietnam war, Bill McPhee has lived an adventurous life. He learned Tahltan values from his relatives and has taught younger generations the same lessons. Even if times have changed from dog sleigh to snowmobiles during his lifetime, the Tahltan values he learned while growing up have guided After the war, Bill came back to the United States him through life’s unknown path. and travelled North America until he found himself in Alaska, where he started operating heavy machinery. Bill McPhee is a Tahltan man who is from the Crow A year later he travelled back to Telegraph Creek clan. His mother is Louise (Dease) McPhee. He has where he met his wife and brought her to Alaska with four children: Annita, Carmen and Louine McPhee him. In the late 1970’s, he was the President of the along with his son Calvin Quock. He currently is retired Association of United Tahltans, which is currently and lives in Telegraph Creek, at Sawmill Lake. known as the TCG, and was the chief of the Tahltan Band Council in the 1990s. He continually operated Bill was born in Wrangle Alaska, but spent his childhood equipment throughout Tahltan Territory, pioneering growing up in Telegraph Creek. He grew up in times numerous roads until his retirement. where people had to be self-sufficient to live. As soon as Bill turned 14, he started hunting with his family Bill now lives on his 160-acres of land near Telegraph members. They would take dog teams fifty miles into Creek and is enjoying his golden years. Even though the Shesley area where they would hunt moose to times have changed throughout his life, he has bring back for the community. He would help fill the passed down the valuable lessons he learned to his meat storage full of food and anyone in the town could kids, including the importance of education. Bill has eat from it, so no one went hungry. He says everybody experienced many things in his life from hunting looked after each other and all got along. He learned moose 50 miles in the woods by himself to protecting many things from people like George Edzerza, who his comrades in battle. He holds Tahltan traditions taught Bill traditional lessons like how to identify natural close to his heart and makes sure that these lessons medicine, how to utilize every part of the moose, how are not forgotten so the next generation can be to trap, and a multitude of other invaluable traditional guided by these values too.
82 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
CULTURE Sheldon Dennis
After formal training, Sheldon could do all sorts of art: drawing, painting, carving, and tattoo designs. He does landscapes, portraits, wildlife, logos, everything he can think of. He has won logo contests for a jacket and a business. He is working on a turtle necklace right now, with wood burnt into it, a little carving. He is doing another tattoo design and a print of Todagin Mountain.
Sheldon’s major works include a print titled “Dance of the Bear Dog”, showing hunters and dogs surrounding a bear. He did a Spatsizi mask, right next to spider woman. The red goat, red sand makes their fur red. He spent a few months on the spider, it is thin and light. The mask comes from a story his dad told him once, out camping. When you are young, sometimes you do things without thinking. Sheldon was just killing spiders in the tent when his dad saw him. He told him to cut it out and then shared a story: Sheldon Dennis is the son of Gertie Dennis and Steven Louie, and the grandson of Annie and Antwon Louie “There was a boy who killed spiders. He grew up, met a and Alec and Winnie Dennis. He is forty-four years old girl, and fell in love. They married and then he started and has two boys, Stephen (17) and Gavin (14), and a to notice strange things. He would find spiders webs stepdaughter, Jamie Nole. He belongs to the Ch’iōne clan. in the bed and his wife always gone when he woke up. One night, he secretly woke up and followed her as Sheldon was born in Terrace and grew up between there she snuck out. In the dark, he saw her transform into a and Iskut. He still goes back and forth between the two spider. He ran after her, but she disappeared, never to communities. He has been carving since he was little. return.” After that, he did not kill anymore.
His dad taught him how to use the tools, telling him: “If you do not have toys, grab a knife and carve yourself a toy”. In the winter, Sheldon would carve little skidoos to drag around, and he dreamed of becoming an artist when he grew up. His family noticed his work and encouraged him, always getting him to draw for them.
Art comes naturally to Sheldon, as he can see the pieces before he makes them. Out on the land, he sees everything in pictures, or he can come up with pictures or a scene; he always sees something. At first, he would draw with pencil and paper or whittle away at camp. One day he brought a carved piece home and, upon seeing it, his partner at the time said he should go to art school.
Sheldon attended the Freda Diesing School of Northwest Coast Art at Coast Mountain College in Terrace, graduating in 2010. He learned from master carvers there, like Ken McNeil, and two Tahltan masters: Dempsey Bob and Stan Bevan. It was awesome to learn from them, they would do half a piece, then Sheldon would do the other half to complete it.
83 PERSONAL PROFILES – SHELDON DENNIS
Creative design comes naturally to Sheldon, but the method always takes work. It helps him to have a story behind the piece, a moral, or a person he is making it for. Those connections, to stories and people, make the art flow easier and come out cooler.
Sheldon enjoys the solitude of art. He can just get into his head and draw, think about life, everything. If he has a question, he will ponder it and come up with a solution. His advice: “Don’t listen to others and just follow what you feel, just do what you think is right and get it done. Listen to yourself, others will sidetrack you. It is not theirs, it’s yours.”
Above & Right: Spatsizi (Red) Goat. Birch, Red Cedar & Red Cedar Bark – 2017. Sheldon Dennis.
“Don’t listen to others and just follow what you feel, just do what you think is right and get it done. Listen to yourself, others will sidetrack you. It is not theirs, it’s yours.”
84 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
HEALTHY ACTIVE TAHLTANS Cagney Etzerza
When he was just seven years old, Cagney started Cagney started playing hockey outside, learning from his brothers hunting even and cousins. When the indoor rink opened, he started before he began playing minor hockey there with his friends. He did not hockey, going really get into it until his mom started making him go. Down in Smithers, he got lucky and made the rep team after grouse at his first year. He enjoyed the full contact, the need the age of six. He for hockey smarts, positioning, and learned fast. “In does a little bit of Dease Lake, you just get on the ice and try to score. In everything now. Smithers, you have to work as a team.” Last summer, he spent four nights Cagney played with the Smithers Storm for three years on a mountain where he practiced three times a week and had two games on the weekends: full time hockey. He played summit out in tournaments like the All Native too, for the Tahltan hunting and he Selects in junior and midgets (jamboree). When he was got three bears. thirteen, late in the third period of the gold medal game, he posted up in front of the net and batted the game- winning goal into the net. The place went crazy, family and fans screaming from the stands when his name boomed over the speaker system. Cagney Etzerza is the son of Tina and Eugene Etzerza and the grandson of Gaye and Mark Frocklage and Lola He does not know what he would do and Eugene Etzerza. He is seventeen years old and in the without hockey. “Hard to get into it,” Tsesk’iye clan. Cagney grew up in Dease Lake and then moved to Smithers when he was fourteen. He attended he says, “but it’s hard to get out of.” school there until COVID-19 hit, hockey slowed down, and classes turned to half-days. Last Thanksgiving, he moved It was a challenge adapting to school and hockey life in back home to Dease Lake and graduated early. Smithers, but all his friends came from hockey. That is how they connected. He considered hockey academy but had to choose between that and an introduction to trades course. He chose trades and now studies mechanics, carpentry, plumbing, brick laying and welding. He wants to go on to trade school in Kelowna.
Cagney started hunting even before he began hockey, going after grouse at the age of six. He does a little bit of everything now. Last summer, he spent four nights on a mountain summit out hunting and he got three bears. Mostly he hunts moose, deer, bear, and caribou. In the summer, he goes to fish camp, processes fish, does the work around camp and more.
Cagney stays fit from hard work too: mowing, yard work, and all sorts of physical labour. He builds drill pads, does snow removal and prep work. He has worked for the school board three summers in a row, landscaping, and painting, coming home sore every day.
Cagney’s entire lifestyle is healthy and active, from his hard labour to his recreation on the rink, river or in the mountains.
85 PERSONAL PROFILES – HEALTHY ACTIVE TAHLTANS
HEALTHY ACTIVE TAHLTANS Teagan Young
Reaching the top just seems impossible. At this point, Teagan’s hands are burning, her muscles are sore, and her body is spent, but she didn’t come this far for nothing. She tells herself, “Just one more try, don’t give up.”
After multiple failed attempts to climb the wall and muscles needed to climb was difficult and sometimes Her advice to only minutes left in the rock-climbing competition, she she could barely open up her fingers after practice. She others looking scales the wall one last time and with a leaping grab she pushed through the difficulties and after a year with to live a healthy makes it to the top. The feeling of success is amazing the Junior Climbing Club she tried out for the Calgary lifestyle is to just and the support from the crowd is uplifting. This healthy Youth Climbing Team and earned a spot on the roster. active Tahltan is always pushing herself to climb to the try new things top of any of life’s challenges. Joining the youth team was a big step for Teagan that and give it your entailed longer practices, more focus on competitions all. You do not Teagan Young is the great-granddaughter of Evelyn and higher-level coaching. During her first year on the know if you like Rattray, who is part of the Wolf Clan and the Etzenlee team, she competed in the Triple Crown event for sport something unless family. Her parents are Toni and Chris Young and her and developing athletes and placed first in bouldering, you try it. Tahltan grandparents are Barb and Gerry Harvey. She is second in speed climbing and third in lead climbing. sixteen years old and lives in Calgary, Alberta. Her team would attend Alberta Climbing Association competitions around the Province. She says one of her Teagan grew up participating in many activities but favourite parts of the sport is the people at competitions always had a love of water. At nine years old she joined who foster a supportive, fun atmosphere. the Poseidon’s Junior Lifeguard Club where she learned valuable lifesaving skills and competed in lifesaving Teagan is always striving to do the best she can at competitions around the Province. She currently holds everything she does. She says she enjoys climbing Bronze Cross and Bronze Medallion certification and is because it has no true end and there is always a waiting for pools to open up again so she can complete higher point to reach. While climbing, Teagan says her National Lifeguard certification. she is completely in the moment which puts her in a meditative state. She likes that she is constantly Even with a full schedule of swimming and school, pushing herself outside of her comfort zone. Teagan finds time to try new activities. She has Irish danced, did a year-and-a-half of diving and played soccer. Teagan’s healthy lifestyle also helps keep her focused in When she was twelve years old, her mom enrolled her in a the classroom as she pursues her goal of becoming a summer rock-climbing camp. After her first camp she fell large animal veterinarian. Her advice to others looking to in love with the sport and joined the Junior Climbing Club live a healthy lifestyle is to just try new things and give it where she learned proper climbing techniques and body your all. You do not know if you like something unless you positioning, how to conserve energy and how to choose try it. Teagan is a perfect example how a healthy, active efficient climbing paths. She says that building the lifestyle can help anyone reach life’s highest peaks.
86 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
INSPIRING YOUNG TAHLTANS Alicia Asp-Chief
When Alicia Asp-Chief was thirteen years love, tradition and appreciation for everything continue her work from a different lens, which old, she auditioned for the prestigious we have. Also, she had the opportunity to be is what led her to the Indigenous Mental Canterbury High School, a school for the a member of multiple choirs throughout her Wellness field. She is striving towards making arts in Ottawa, Ontario. education and even a popular style music a difference in Indiegnous lives every day. group called the Ettas. She started to sing the Alicia is in her final year at Carleton classical Italian opera piece All of her practice led up to being accepted University and plans to continue making into the prestigious Canterbury high school. an impact while working, being a full time that she had learned two The school was an hour bus ride from her student, and while being a full time musician. months prior without any home, the academics were top calibre and She has performed at many large venues she had multiple singing practices a week. including the Grey Cup conference, Canada’s Italian musical background. She had to juggle this while trying to fit into 150-year anniversary festival in Ottawa, and She gave it everything she a brand-new environment as one of the only the National Anthem at The Tourism of had, won the jury over and was Indiegnous students. School was difficult, Canada Conference. She has many stories although she managed to keep her grades up of meeting famous people such as Shania accepted directly into the elite in order to continue practicing her passion of Twain, Bono, Sandra Oh, and Justin Trudeau. arts high school. She proved singing. During her time at Canterbury, she She continues to grow as an artist during to the jury and herself that studied disciplines such as musical analysis, this pandemic by creating numerous music theory, history, composition and general high videos of cover pieces on her Facebook she belongs among some of school level academics. Artist Page @AliciaKayley, and through her Canada’s top performers. handful of radio appearances globally. She is After graduating, Alicia was initially accepted also currently working towards being signed Alicia Asp-Chief is an Algonquin/Tahltan First into Carleton university for their Indiegnous to a label to propel her career forward. Nation woman, part of the Crow clan and the studies program but then auditioned for their Etzenlee family. Her parents are Cynthia Asp music program specializing in Classical Alicia has been through tons of adversity from and Kevin Chief. Her grandparents are Jerry Voice and Pop Singer Song-writer and was feeling alone in a new school away from home and Ida Asp. Alicia is twenty-one years old accepted into the Bachelor of Music Program. to performing live in front of thousands of and currently lives in Ottawa Ontario while she Furthermore, she continued to grow into people and televised audiences. Her advice to attends Carleton University and works full time. an accomplished young woman through others looking to pursue their passion is that her work within the Mental Wellness Field there is nothing standing in your way to being Alicia had the opportunity to grow up being in Ottawa. Her previous work included the your greatest self, you just need to fight for surrounded by powwows and other traditional Tahltan culture and literacy camps, as well what you want. As an Indiegnous Pop/R&B/ ceremonies that had provided her with a as working as a summer youth worker at the Opera singer who has overcome numerous love for music from an early age. She says Recreation Centre in Telegraph Creek. From challenges, Alicia is a true success story that powwows provide you with the feelings of this experience with youth, she felt the need to shows how dreams really can come true.
87 PERSONAL PROFILES – INSPIRING YOUNG TAHLTANS
INSPIRING YOUNG TAHLTANS Isaac Etzerza
In 2013, Isaac started Zigzag Construction. He financed his own equipment with some help from The Tribal Resources Investment Corporation (TRICORP) and started work on the Red Chris power line. This was a super stressful time in his life which had him working up to seven weeks straight in camp. Business was great until 2015, then work slowed down so he decided to make the massive change to sell everything and move to Burnaby to start a plumbing apprenticeship.
In poker, “all in” means putting all your chips on the table. It takes courage and an eye for opportunity to make the move and sometimes it works, sometimes it does not, but you do not win if you do not play. Isaac Etzerza knows what it is like to be “all in” in real life. Moving his entire family to Burnaby from Terrace and going After exhausting his resources to start a construction back to school was a huge adjustment for Isaac. Between full- company and then giving it up to better himself by time courses at the British Columbia Institute of Technology. starting a plumbing apprenticeship all while raising a (BCIT), raising his family and working, he was once again all family, this inspiring Tahltan has shown the courage to in on his goals. During his apprenticeship, he worked with chase his dreams and put all his chips on the table. three different companies to gain experience in various parts of the trade from learning about Victaulic piping Isaac Etzerza is thirty-six years old and part of the Shoe systems to natural gas installation. He did not take many Kawk family and the Crow clan. His parents are Lola science classes in high school, so he had a lot of catching and Eugene Etzerza, and his maternal grandmother is up to do while he was earning his Class B gas ticket which Fanny Woods and paternal grandmother is Edna Quock. entailed lots of chemistry and math. He persevered, and in He currently lives in Burnaby with his fiancé, Kristie, and February of 2021 received his Red Seal plumbing certificate their two kids, Taysha and Kara. and second Class B gas certificate.
Isaac grew up in Telegraph Creek until he was fourteen Now that Isaac is a fully certified plumber, he plans to years old when he moved to Terrace for high school. move back to Northern British Columbia to start his own After grade eleven, he spent the summer in a seven- week army bootcamp called the Bold Eagle program plumbing business. He also wants to help other Tahltans that entailed long, grueling days filled with weighted who are interested in the trade by offering apprenticeships. runs and other drills. After graduating from high With life’s many ups and downs, Isaac has persevered and school, Isaac spent a year at Northwest Community College upgrading courses to get into a business shown what hard work can achieve. program. The following summer he attained his heavy equipment operator ticket from Northern Lights He says that the plumbing trade has a bad reputation, College in Dease Lake. He operated various equipment but when you are certified in the trade it opens up tons in Tahltan Territory including grader, loader, excavator, of opportunities. You can specialize in specific parts of the and anything else on wheels or tracks. After working trade such as on-demand hot water tanks, boilers, furnaces in many places including Red Chris, Eskay Creek and and more while being able to find work easily anywhere in Bob Quinn, he combined his business knowledge and Canada. It is the perfect avenue for him to help other people operating skills to start his own construction business. get certified and start their plumbing careers as well.
88 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
89 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
Updates
91 — TNDC Update
93 — Tahltan Forestry Update
90 TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
TNDC Update
Fostering a safe and healthy workplace
Advancing efforts to build employee capacity and qualifications, we are supporting our safety supervisors at various project sites to obtain certification in safety leadership excellence and injury prevention with the BC Construction Safety Alliance. We are also rolling out our new personnel manual to support a safe, respectful, and professional workplace. As well, we will be assessing departments, wages, and benefits to ensure operational efficiencies and market competitiveness.
Serving Newcrest Red Chris Mine
At Red Chris, our road maintenance crews are transitioning to summer maintenance, while our TIA construction crews are adding personnel to meet the seasonal increase in volumes. Our camp services crews are also growing to serve the additional Jamie Gleason Spring is a time of change for TNDC as Newcrest personnel who will be working onsite over the work season. We are also exploring new Interim Chief Executive we transition to a new fiscal year and Officer (CEO) partnering opportunities related to the underground prepare for the work season. As TNDC’s decline construction and planning for potential newly appointed interim CEO, I am underground block cave operations. excited for our company and its future. Supporting mining exploration
I am also grateful to have an experienced, long tenured, In our mining exploration business, our primary focus and dedicated management team to undertake will be on three major projects. At KSM, our crews delivery of the many priorities and initiatives underway. and equipment will be supporting construction at two Our team is busy ramping up for the 2021 work season camps, data collection at a glacier offset project, and which is shaping up to be one of the busiest in recent construction of a new access road. At SnipGold-Johnny years following a successful and eventful 2020 season. Mountain, they will be supporting continued reclamation with relocation of waste rock and conducting repairs Ensuring Safety First, Safety Always and upgrades to the old mine access road. At Eskay Creek, our crews have been working throughout the Our collective priority continues to be the safety of winter and will continue road maintenance work, start our employees and everyone we work with – ensuring improvements to the existing access road, and prepare everyone goes home safely. We are implementing for development of a new access road. Our camp initiatives to improve our safety performance across services crews will also grow to serve additional Eskay the organization and all project sites. This includes personnel who will be onsite this season. reducing the risk of accidents and injury, and ensuring the best protocols are being utilized to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
91 TNDC UPDATE
Supporting community projects
Within the local communities, a small crew just wrapped up work on a pile and burn project in Telegraph Creek. They will transition to work on the Dease Lake Airport Upgrade Project, following the recent $11 million funding announcement from the Government of BC and Regional District of Kitimat- Stikine, to carry out upgrades to improve flight service and safety. This was positive news for the future of our air support business. TNDC’s goal is to expand our air support service for commercial flights to serve both industry and the Tahltan community. In the meantime, our air support crew is continuing to serve the Newcrest Red Chris Mine crew charter flights.
Diversifying our business
Our fibre optics team is finalizing design/build planning and preparing for construction to begin this year. We have several other significant business initiatives in various stages of discussion, development, and execution which we look forward to advancing.
Being a trusted partner
Our collective focus this season will be delivering on client commitments, as a safe, professional, reliable, quality service provider and trusted partner. I thank TNDC’s employees, managers, board, partners, and Tahltan Leadership for their support as we move forward.
“Our collective focus this season will be delivering on client commitments, as a safe, professional, reliable, quality service provider and trusted partner.”
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TAHLTAN CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – SPRING NEWSLETTER 2021
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! Tahltan Forestry Update
! Tahltan Forestry Ltd. (TFL) is a joint company, owned by The public review period closed in November 2020, TNDC and NorthPac Forestry Group Ltd. TFL was founded after which TFL incorporated any comments and
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425000 430000 435000 Proposed Blocks Hwy 37 in the vicinity of Ogilvie Creek (please see ! Scale: 1:60,000 Proposed Blo“Proposedcks Blocks” map, left). They are comprisedDate : April 16, 2021 Projection: NAD 83 UTM Zone 9
LEGEND primarily of Subalpine Fir and Western Hemlock,Pre withpared f or: ! . a smaller component of Spruce. TFL will be working 0 1 2 Prepared by: PROPOSED ROAD Legend on completing block layout through the spring, and ! 0 1 2 â â ââ â Kilometers Proposed Road Proposed Block Parks and Protected Areawills coordinateRecreation Tra ianyl requiredRecreation Sarchaeologyites work, wildlife KILOMETRES PROPOASED BLOCK
surveys or other assessments with Tahltan Lands once !
the area is free of snow. PARKS & REC AREAS !
Please feel free to contact Andrew Burke at: !
RECREATION TRAIL [email protected] with any !
RECREATION SITES questions, comments, or concerns. !
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