ʔAkisq̓nuk First Nation moves ahead with science-based stewardship on Columbia, Windermere Lakes

An Invermere-area First Nation is going forward with a comprehensive approach to stewardship on ʔamakʔis Ktunaxa waters, including Columbia Lake and Lake Windermere.

The ʔAkisq̓nuk First Nation (AFN) Council has approved more than $200,000 for the underwater mapping of both lakes, which will help officials understand sediment movement and shoreline conditions by analyzing measurable data on lake depth.

“AFN is committed to working government to government with Province and Federal governments to protect our homelands,” said Chief Donald Sam. “Our people have stewarded these lands and waters continuously for more than ten thousand years.”

The AFN said it is ramping up efforts after witnessing the consequences of “unchecked demands and pollution” on the lakes. 

In addition to the environmental science studies, officials will also be conducting a market survey to look at how recreational lake use affects the regional economy.

Other initiatives include ongoing work with the District of Invermere, the Regional District of East Kootenay and other Indigenous communities, including the Shuswap Band.

“ʔakxam̓is q̓api qapsins refers to our original relationships to ‘all living things’. While colonization disrupted our ability to fully exercise those rights, it did not erase our responsibility to protect these waters,” added Sam.

“We will continue to lead with credible science, respectful collaboration, traditional ecological knowledge and evidence-based stewardship that reflects our obligations to future generations.”