SYLVIS invited to participate in Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation Environmental Stewardship Week

Again, this year the Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation (SXFN) invited SYLVIS to participate in their 2019 Environmental Stewardship Week. The SXFN is comprised of two smaller bands with overlapping traditional territories; the Canoe Creek First Nation and the Dog Creek First Nation.

This stewardship event, held annually in conjunction around the beginning of the annual fish harvest, provides SXFN and SYLVIS with the opportunity to connect, share and learn about land management activities and environmental initiatives that SYLVIS is undertaking within their territory. The event also enabled connecting with other industry proponents (West Fraser, Tolko), as well as government agencies (Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure, Parks Canada, BC Conservation Service) working within the region.

Mike Van Ham, Michael Jeffery, and Charlie Davis from SYLVIS Environmental participated which was held in the Dog Creek Community Hall. The afternoon event was filled with networking and engagement activities, interspersed with speeches from the SXFN Chief Patrick Harry and members of the community. We were introduced to the first SXFN Stewardship Guardians. Prior to enjoying a delicious salmon buffet, a traditional First Nations blessing was shared by community elders and a wonderful story was shared about the connection of SXFN to the land, water and fish. SYLVIS is delighted to have been invited to be a part of the Environmental Stewardship Week and we look forward to the opportunity in subsequent years!