The Story So Far…

Since 2005, Uu-a-thluk has tackled the objectives set out by our Ha’wiih (hereditary Chiefs) and worked to manage aquatic resources the Nuu-chah-nulth way. The tasks are not easy and there is still much work to be done, but there are successes indicating that progress is being made.  Below are some of the achievements that Uu-a-thluk has delivered since 2005.

More Access to Fish and Ocean Resources

  • Increased Nuu-chah-nulth access to sea resources through participation in PICFI (recent submission of $4 million business plan for six Nations)
  • Convinced the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) to lift unnecessary restrictions on communal lingcod licences
  • Promoted Nuu-chah-nulth ownership of sea resources through the voices and statements of Nuu-chah-nulth Ha’wiih, and activities such as the cookbook publication, public events, presentations, and a cultural exchange with DFO
  • Took the lead in crab reform to have a significant voice in the restructuring of the fishery

    • Jobs and Training for Communities

  • Raised over $450,000 for education, awareness, training, and mentoring programs reaching over 500 Nuu-chah-nulth youth and adults
  • Supported Nuu-chah-nulth university students in science programs with career planning, training, and employment

    • More Stewardship

  • Raised new funding to complete side channels and continue salmon enhancement projects
  • Coordinated chinook escapement projects on seven streams in the Northern Region and recently received approval for two new chinook assessment projects that will provide new jobs and improved information.

    • A Stronger Voice in Management

  • Improved working relations with DFO, including near agreement on sea otter harvest, and involvement in Pacific Salmon Treaty renegotiations
  • Influenced DFO policy through legal action, consultations, recommendations, and relationship-building
  • Incorporated cultural practices and protocols into meetings and events
  • Built a reputation for Nuu-chah-nulth as a national leader in aboriginal aquatic resource management through Uu-a-thluk

    • The Uu-a-thluk team looks forward to exceeding the goals and objectives of the Ha’wiih and First Nations.