The ʔaq̓am wetland project’s goal is to restore the waterbodies to what is understood to be their precontact state, strengthening protection of the environment and supporting healthy and resilient ecosystems. This project is a joint investment of more than $1.4 million from the federal government, ʔaq̓am, Columbia Basin Trust, Ducks Unlimited Canada, and Real Estate Foundation of BC. It is community-led by ʔaq̓am.
“Protecting natural wetlands is vital to building and maintaining sustainable and resilient communities. This investment will increase the wetlands water supply while at the same time creating a vibrant ecosystem for the community to enjoy,” said The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities.
Since the 1960s, ʔaq̓am lands have seen substantial changes to water resources and ecosystems. As a result, the wetlands on the ʔaq̓am lands had been identified as a restoration priority due to increasing heat, drought and wildfire risk. This project will restore six wetlands that have either lost surface water or show signs of shrinking, supporting their return back to a more natural state. Enhancement and recovery of this critical habitat will benefit wildlife and the community through ʔaq̓am stewardship values, enhancing the water systems, and increasing the biodiversity of plants and animals.
“Ducks Unlimited Canada is honored to work with ʔaq̓am in their traditional territory and support Indigenous-led wetland restoration projects on ʔaq̓am lands. We look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to deliver projects aimed at increasing community resilience and securing healthy watersheds and wetlands,” said Matthew Wilson, Head of Conservation Programs, Ducks Unlimited Canada.
