Today, Sumas First Nation (Semá:th) launches its second Conservation, Guardianship and Harvest Plan. The Semá:th Tribe had several villages situated around the former Semá:th Lake and Fraser River mainstem, and always relied on these waterways for sustenance. Historically, the community has thrived on salmon and game harvests on and around the lake and had a deep cultural connection to the area since time immemorial. As Semá:th and Wolf Peoples we honour, conserve and protect salmon and all other living things.
Councillor Murray Ned says that “The harvest and stock assessment activities will provide some of the food, social and ceremonial needs of the community but just as importantly much-needed data collection to guide our future conservation and management decisions.” This is integral to the Semá:th people and aligns with our inherent obligation to protect resources in the territory.
In addition, Chief Dalton Silver says that “Through our own Declaration in 2017, Sumas First Nation reaffirms our inherent right to all land, mountains, minerals, trees, lakes, rivers, streams and resources extending through our traditional lands. We also recognize that this is shared territory with other Sto:lo Nations and there is need for tribal collaboration and cooperation.” We do this work to honour our ancestors before us, our elders and people today and for the generations to follow.
Sumas First Nation’s intent is to restore and enhance Indigenous fisheries management and traditional practices within our territory to help inform future fisheries conservation and management, and rebuilding of Sumas, Chilliwack, and Cultus Lake salmon populations. Our salmon are in crisis and we welcome all partnerships and investment to help with this cause.
Sumas First Nation is a robust Indigenous Community located near Abbotsford, BC. Sumas has approximately 350 members and currently resides on a reserve land base of approximately 600 acres.
Media Contact:
Kevin O’Neill
Communication Officer
Email: media@sumasfirsntation.com
Phone: 604-788-7634