WLFN; Esk'etemc FN; Province of BC sign Letter of Understanding re: Chilcotin River Landslide

Courtesy of Williams Lake First Nation:

Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) today announced that British Columbia, Esk’etemc, and WLFN have concluded a government-to-government Letter of Understanding with respect to the Chilcotin River (Pesxenmétkwe) landslide that occurred on July 31, 2024. Under the Letter of Understanding, the parties agree to work together to jointly address the impact of the landslide.

The Letter of Understanding addresses a number of topics, including fisheries and other environmental impacts, cultural heritage, information sharing and potential causes of and responses to the Chilcotin River landslide. The Letter of Understanding provides for two key discussion tables, one consisting of senior elected officials and another consisting of key administrative staff. The Letter of Understanding also envisions the possibility that other parties may become signatories.

Kúkwpi7 (Chief) Willie Sellars, Williams Lake First Nation:

We’re grateful to conclude this arrangement with the Province. This landslide could have huge implications for the fishery and our hope is to see the best possible outcomes in the circumstances. We commend the Province for working with us on a true government-to-government basis, and for making efforts to integrate our traditional and other knowledge as we develop strategies to address the impacts of the landslide. As Yecwmíǹmen or “Stewards of the Land” we look forward to collaborating with the Province and other affected First Nations.

Kúkwpi7 (Chief) Fred Robbins, Esk’etemc:

Together we are working towards a solution that honours our lands, our waters, and our people. We commend the Province for stepping up and recognizing the importance of Indigenous leadership in these critical matters. This Letter of Understanding highlights the importance of working together to protect our environment for future generations. This partnership is a vital step in our shared journey towards reconciliation. 

The Hon. Nathan Cullen - Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, Province of British Columbia:

We responded to the landslide by bringing together modern technology, including LiDAR, and traditional knowledge, by collaborating with First Nations affected by the event. This includes partnering with First Nations governments such as the Williams Lake First Nation, Esk’etemc, and the Tŝilhqot’in National Government. The Letter of Understanding with the Williams Lake and Esk’etemc First Nations is one example where the Province is working together with First Nations governments and experts to take additional actions to support the recovery.