Summary Report
Adapting to Uncertain Futures Workshop
Oct. 3, 2006 Alert Bay, BC
OVERALL PURPOSE OF THE WORKSHOP
The overall purpose of this workshop was to engage a selected sample of members of the
community of Alert Bay in a discussion on past, present and future opportunities and challenges
for community well-being and to place climate changes within this broader context.
STRUCTURE OF THE WORKSHOP
The full-day workshop involved group discussions facilitated around five general topics:
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
v.
Past changes and current community well-being, including strategies of adaptation
contributing to current circumstances
Future prospects and plans for community well-being
Observations of climate change in the past and today and its impacts on the
community
Considering the evidence on climate change
Possible impacts of climate change on future developments and community wellbeing and strategies for adaptation
The workshop began with a brief overview of the research project, review of the concept of
“resilience1” and summary of the main points from the Community Background Report
distributed to participants before the workshop, launching a group discussion on topic i. The
question “How can Alert Bay build a resilient community?” set the stage for the day. One
participant suggested local participants consider how to reshape the complex concept of
resilience into something that is meaningful to them. Village of Alert Bay and ‘Namgis First
Nation representatives presented interim results of current community planning processes,
beginning the second session. In the afternoon a group discussion of local climate change
observations was followed by a brief overview of climate change science. The results of a
literature review on climate change and its potential implications for Alert Bay and the North
Island region were also presented, along with the findings of a recent research project by on local
observations of environmental change. The final session of the day focused on the future,
including climate change scenarios, potential impacts on future plans, and strategies for
adaptation and for Alert Bay to “do its part” to address human-induced climate change. See
www.sfu.ca/coastalstudies/uncertainfutures for copies of the workshop agenda and presentations.
1
At the request of the local Project Steering Committee Maureen Woodrow presented three different definitions of
this term, suggesting that Tompkins and Adger’s 2004 definition was perhaps most appropriate in relation to the
day’s discussions: “the ability to persist and the ability to adapt”.
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An evening public session featured a community supper, summary of the day’s proceedings,
presentations by Hanna Eklund of Snowchange Cooperative2 and by Councillor Mike Berry, who
reported on feedback from Alert Bay youth about current and future recreation opportunities.
Classroom presentations were made by Hanna Eklund in both Alert Bay elementary schools the
following week.
PARTICIPANTS AT THE WORKSHOP
In total, twenty residents of Alert Bay (and nearby Hanson Island) participated in the workshop,
including representatives from business, retail, service, fishing, tourism, forestry, arts and
environmental sectors, teaching and human resource professions, Village Council members,
‘Namgis First Nation staff members and hereditary chiefs and elders. (See Appendix A for a list
of attendees).
PURPOSE OF THIS REPORT
The report is not intended to present detailed minutes of the workshop but rather aims to capture
the key discussion points. Italicized statements from workshop participants support several of the
main conclusions. (Note: the statements are not verbatim and names are not given.)
GENERAL INTRODUCTORY STATEMENTS
Alert Bay is located on Cormorant Island, off the northeast coast of Vancouver Island, BC. The
island-wide community of approximately 1300 residents lies within the traditional territory of the
‘Namgis First Nation. The island includes several political and administrative jurisdictions and
governance bodies, principally the ‘Namgis First Nation and Village of Alert Bay. The
community economy has traditionally been based on the fishery, although original and settler
peoples have also drawn from the area’s rich forest resources. Today the economy is reliant on
government transfers and the public sector, followed by sales and service and, third, the fishery.
The cash economy is bolstered by a threatened but still relatively healthy informal or non-cash
economy as well as by strong community spirit and willingness to look after one another when
times are tough. The community’s population has remained relatively stable since the 1960s and
consists of a significantly higher percentage of youth than in the provincial population and other
non-aboriginal rural communities. This report is reflective of the opinions and insights offered by
people who were born and raised in this community and/or surrounding area and those who have
moved to the island in more recent years.
A. Past Changes and Current Community Well-being
Using the main points from the Community Background Report, participants discussed the major
changes occurring in the community since the Island’s permanent settlement in the 1870s, as well
as how these changes affected community well-being in the past and today. Participants were in
general agreement with the assessment of community well-being presented in the Community
Background Report with the following additions and areas of emphasis:
2
The organizers would like to thank Hanna and Snowchange Cooperative for their participation in and support of
this workshop.
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1. Individual health and well-being
While health services on the island are generally considered very good, residents point out that
specialized medical services are difficult to access, particularly for low income residents who do
not have the financial resources or means of transportation to travel off the island for medical
care. Residents noted the close relationship between health and economic well-being. Health
problems are also linked to the loss of traditional diet and medicines. Causes of this change
include depletion of natural resources, reduced accessibility of resources to residents (e.g.
because they no longer have fishing vessels or find it too costly to harvest) and/or knowledge of
how to harvest and use traditional foods and medicines no longer being transferred. Participants
observe a rise in interest in and “re-learning” about traditional remedies, however, and in a “low
carb diet” that incorporates traditional foods and addresses the high rate of diabetes in the
community.
“Health goes hand in hand with level of income”.
“The wealthiest community members have access to better health…access to services.”
“We ate a regular seafood diet, picked berries, ate eel grass, seal, cod, red snapper… We
never had money and never complained about the food we ate because we enjoyed it. Now
diabetics have a low carb diet. They eat what the old people used to eat, and some of them
have gone off the needle”.
“I want to pass on traditional remedies to next generations.”
“Some people with cancer are going back to Indian medicine.”
2. Economic stress
Participants explained that the community had been hard hit by declines in the fishharvesting sector that have been ongoing since the industry last peaked in the mid-80s.
Consolidation and centralization in the processing of both fish and timber since the 1930s
closure of the Alert Bay cannery has resulted in further economic losses. As older
fishermen retire recruiting young people into the fishery is a significant challenge,
particularly given “the astounding cost for a fishing license” (in some fisheries $500,000
or more). Recently the loss of the marine fuel dock has been yet another blow to the local
fishing and tourism economy. Increases in the number of ferry crossings have had mixed
implications, increasing the ability to commute for work and move people, goods and
services to and from the island but at the same time contributing to more off-island
shopping. Reliance on government programs (SA and EI) has become all too common.
Despite high rates of unemployment local employers, the majority of them in the service
and retail sectors, report that it is difficult to find employees.
Some new economic opportunities and positive developments are bringing hope for the
future, including high paying jobs at the Orca Sand and Gravel mine and revenuegenerating ventures that allow ‘Namgis First Nation to invest in the future (see B. Future
Prospects). Participants suggested that more people today are making a living as artists
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than in the 1990s, raising concerns for one participant that some people are being forced
into selling their culture “just to get by”.
“The only ones left in the fishery are people with money in the bank who can
afford to miss a year.”
“There’s people living on welfare and it’s not enough to survive. I don’t know
how they do it.”
“They’re at the point of apathy. People have just given up.
“Jobs are needed in order to promote community development.”
“We need jobs but we also need people who want jobs.”
“Orca Sand and Gravel is paying good money for locals. It’s hard labour but they
are willing to do whatever it takes. They’re enjoying it. The change is exciting”.
The declining number of fishing vessels and cash available, coupled with rising fuel costs
and “people caught up in other things,” is negatively impacting the community’s informal
economy, but harvesting of resources for sustenance and trade remains common.
Approximately 40,000 salmon were distributed throughout the community and the
‘Namgis membership in 2006, doubling the amount of food fish provided in 2005 due to
strong Fraser River returns and the ‘Namgis food dish distribution system.
3. The struggle to sustain language and culture
The Kwakwaka’wakw culture is recognized as a tremendous strength and asset in the
community. Language, participants explained, is the foundation of the Kwakwaka’wakw
culture(s). Connection to family and nature is also critical. Each of these aspects of
culture have been threatened over time by colonization and associated political, social,
economic and environmental changes, challenges the community is still facing today.
Both the residential school system and banning of the potlatch were described as having
caused significant changes to language, culture and family.
“They call us the Kwakwaka’wakw people, the Kwak’wala speaking people. What
would be as a people without our language? The language is the spirit of the
people, it comes from the land, and it is dying.”
“In the residential schools we were punished for speaking our language. A lot of
people want to learn the language but there should be more resources, more
funding and the salaries for teachers are so low.”
“Culture is not just an artefact in a museum. It is linked to the resources of the
land and sea. Culture is important to governance, to economy. It is linked to
people, ecology and place.”
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4. Strong social relationships
Social relationships, often based on kinship, have been strained at times and threatened
over the years. Nonetheless goodwill and community spirit have been sustained and
remain perhaps the community’s most significant asset. These relationships hold the
community together and ensure that no one goes without or are left on their own in times
of trouble. The community is also very welcoming to outsiders. Challenges noted include
a decline in mutual support in every day life (vs. times of crisis) and in voluntarism.
Communication and distribution of information was also identified as a significant
challenge. Issues include increasing reliance on communication through email and the
Internet despite some residents’, particularly elders, inability to access information in this
way. Participants also expressed a concern that youth were not being engaged in
community planning and leadership.
“There are people living a terrible life in Vancouver that do not know where they
belong. They were fostered out. Family is important. In the old days we looked
after our own. Children were very important to the old people. They would learn
all of the time through the family. Before St. Mikes the strongest teachings were
through the potlatch. They tried to destroy all of that”.”
“They took the kids away and tried to break up the family unit. In our culture you
represent your family first, the connections, the intermarriages, are close-knit.”
“In times of crisis, when there is a real need everyone is still there to help each other.
Everybody is so involved in their everyday life today. People used to be more
collaborative. There is still collaboration and support but its not like it used to be.”
“It’s really easy to get help in the community. If you need help you will get it. It’s
the easiest community I’ve ever lived in. I’ve lived places where there was
discrimination. Here there is no discrimination”.
“We have bottle drives, get the kids to help with Santa's or Easter breakfast. We
encourage kids to help in the community.”
“It used to be a badge of honor to volunteer but the youth have learned to say no. The
Fire Department, the Lions are having a harder time recruiting new people.”
“There is a communication breakdown in the community. Elders don't have hi-tech
computers. It's Greek to a lot of people.”
5. Natural resource decline
Participants spoke of environmental damage caused by clearcut logging and aquaculture and
described significant declines in fish stocks throughout the North Island and adjacent mainland
inlets region.
“Clearcut logging is affecting the wildlife. They’re forced into town and then killed.”
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“There are more than 100 salmon streams in Area 12. None of them are fishable
anymore. Now we’re dependent on passing Fraser stock. There were ten million pink
salmon that contributed to the local economy and were part of the traditional diet. Those
stocks have crashed - we all know about the controversy over fish farming.”
6. Recreation
The theme of recreation was identified as important to local youth. Through the Continuing
Education Program youth were asked, “Are there enough recreation opportunities in your
community? Are there more or less than there was in the past?” Four students responded. They
were unsure if there was more or less to do for recreation today than in the past (some felt more,
some felt less and others were uncertain) but all identified the need for more recreational
opportunities in the community today.
“I think there was more in the past, but a lot of people just made up their own games and
what not, now it’s a lot to do with technology and not having enough money to supply
what kids in town are interested in”.
When asked, “What do you do for fun?” responses included:
•
•
•
•
“Create your own fun”
“Go for walks at night with my friends, or biking… watch movies, go online or see who
else is out at night and go walk around to find them”
“Go to school, see friends”
“There’s nothing else to do so I smoke weed”
7. Eras of change
Participants suggested the addition of the residential school years (1929-1967) and times
of significant restructuring in the fishery, such as the cannery closure (1931), mid 1980s
peak and the Mifflin Plan, to the five eras of change proposed in the Background Report
(see Timeline Diagram, Appendix B). Dates are important, they added. ‘Namgis First
Nation is working to collect and document important dates and collective stories about the
community’s history, demonstrating patterns of colonization, oppression and most
recently centralization.
8. Strategies for survival and adaptation
Participants explained that the most important strategy for survival and adapting to the many
changes that have impacted Alert Bay over the years has been “not taking it lying down.” The
significance of political leadership was emphasized. The community was described as very
politically inclined, its leaders having “political savvy”. Leaders have been effective at building
outside partnerships and lobbying for funding, from fisheries restructuring programs for example.
Participants pointed out, however, that these resources are still not enough to replace the
resources and industries that have been lost but rather “more of a little bit.”
“We’re a politically savvy community with commitment and smarts that have allowed a
lot of linkages beyond the community. That’s important for a community of this size”
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Yet another important strategy has been participating in “active stewardship” of the area’s natural
resources. Despite the community’s success one community leader suggests that change is still
being driven from outside and that the goal is to move toward bottom-up rather than top-down
development and change. Participant emphasis on increasing local control, leading to
improvement in community well-being, was consistent with a vision of “retraditionalization” of
northern communities proposed by Snowchange:
1. Revitalisation of Community Autonomy (political, economic, cultural) leading to
2. Revitalisation of Local Economy and Language (oral history projects) leading to
3. Revitalisation of Knowledge: People of the land teach young people to be on the land
Additional adaptation strategies used in Alert Bay in the past are outlined in the Community
Background Report.
B. Future Prospects for Community Well-Being
Focusing on options for the future, workshop participants next looked at opportunities and
challenges as well as ongoing plans by Village of Alert Bay and ‘Namgis First Nation to
pursue these opportunities.
Youth involvement
Participants agreed on the need for greater involvement of youth, “a great asset” of the
community in leadership and planning. There was much discussion on how this could be
accomplished. Four local youth provided their input to the workshop by email. All of
them suggested that youth should be directly involved in developing recreation in the
community:
• “Yes, the youth should be involved. I think they should help by some of the fundraising,
and coming up with ideas.”
• “Ask the youth from all ages what they are interested in and what hours are good for
them, just to ask the youth because every child is different.”
• “They should have a lot of input in what programs there are.”
• “Youth should be invited to participate in planning.”
Ideas about how to better involve youth in decision-making processes included taking on
practical problems and hands-on projects. Project topics should be relevant and tangible to youth,
ideally with no limits on innovation and ideas and not just involving “labelled” kids. Participants
had different opinions about whether youth should be involved in planning a project such as a
skateboard park before or after the financial resources are in place. Mentoring by staff and
Council members was suggested to teach youth about the importance of governance and provide
insight into “how things work”. Other suggestions were summer jobs in leadership positions such
as youth councils, peer learning in youth forums and workshops such the “International Survival
Gathering” held in out-of-the-usual settings and incorporating music and/or other fun, relevant
activities. “Innovations in education” and putting youth in real decision-making positions were
mentioned. Several members of the current ‘Namgis Council are under forty, considered a step in
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the right direction. Participants suggested that once input is received it should be taken seriously
and wherever possible result in action.
“Youth have different perceptions, but what they think has to be considered as
important.”
“Teenagers learn from each other”.
“Summer positions as a youth council - give responsibilities to youth where they
can get paid and feel that they can contribute with real issues, paid to grapple
with the issues other community leaders are grappling with”.
“Some of the discussions we have out at the camp, at Yukusam, they open up
about all kinds of issues.
Economic opportunities
Creating sustainable economic opportunities
was another major area of focus for the
future. Treaty Coordinator Doug Aberley
showed a planning map with approximately
one hundred symbols, each representing an
economic opportunity. The key message
from both governments was that there are
many options for economic development in
the community and that steps are being taken
to capitalize on these opportunities to build a
more diverse local economy and create jobs
that people can support a family on. Starting
with planning and infrastructure economic
development was described as a multi-year
process.
‘Namgis Economic Development Principles
- Cannot rely on fishing industry to support local
economy;
- Develop diverse economy that takes advantage
of regional resources and culture;
- Assert aboriginal rights to the fullest;
- Cooperate with neighbours;
- Maintain awareness of local, regional,
provincial, national, continental and global
trends;
- When one local/regional industry is weak,
others will be strong…when one industry
declines, will develop others;
- Constant adaptability will be key to success!
Aberley 2006
1. Fishery
In addition to individually held licenses, the ‘Namgis now hold thirteen communal licenses,
including dogfish and sardines. They are working to diversify further away from reliance on
salmon by pursuing other licenses such as crab and prawns. Feasibility studies are underway for
possible uses of the former ‘Namgis fish plant such as salmon smoking. An agreement has been
negotiated with DFO for an exclusive ‘Namgis commercial fishery for “excess” Nimpkish chum.
Proceeds would help support hatchery operations. Fisheries guardians have been employed to
help protect the fisheries resource by conducting patrols and gathering information on the
environment. Recruitment of youth into the industry was described as the most significant
vulnerability in the fishery.
Both ‘Namgis and Village representatives are working to enhance marine infrastructure to
support both fishing and tourism sectors. A marine service center concept is being developed for
‘Namgis reserve lands including a gas station, harbour services, a $5 million floating breakwater
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project and boat repair yard. The possibility of adding a maritime museum to a “cannery row
style” net loft is also being examined. Mayor Rowell explains that Village Council is committed
to re-establishing a marine fuel dock in the community.
2. Tourism
Plans for further development of the tourism sector include a conference facility, more
advertising and high-end accommodation, possibly in a former nurse’s residence. Health and
wellness vacations were suggested as an area of opportunity. ‘Namgis First Nation is constructing
trails, cabins and other infrastructure for eco-cultural tourism after negotiating a management role
in the provincial parks within their traditional territory. A Big House and land-based whale
watching viewing platforms are planned for Hanson Island along with tent platforms and
environmentally responsible outhouses in various locations throughout the territory, including a
historic Grease Trail from Woss Lake to the west coast of Vancouver Island. Additional
opportunities exist in caving, rafting, fishing and resort development. Village representatives
describe plans for an expanded Information Centre along with a major upgrade of BC Ferries
facilities, including an office, showers, washrooms, a parking lot extension and boat pump-out
station. Funding has been set aside for completing the municipal boardwalk. Plans also include a
boardwalk on the ‘Namgis reserve portion of the waterfront. Planned airstrip improvements
include patching and lighting for Medi-Vac services.
3. Forestry
A recent Forest and Range Agreement provides the ‘Namgis with the ability to harvest timber in
the Nimpkish Valley worth $2-3 million dollars over the next several years, providing the Nation
with the ability to finance developments in tourism and other sectors. The feasibility of reopening a sawmill is also being explored with assistance from the NGO Ecotrust Canada.
Building on meetings between Snowchange and ‘Namgis representatives in 2005, cooperation in
developing a joint sustainable forestry pilot project in Finland and Alert Bay has been suggested.
4. Minerals and aggregates
‘Namgis First Nation’s 12% ownership and benefits arrangement with Orca Sand and
Gravel is projected to create 50 new jobs in the region, 50% of which are to go to First
Nations. The venture is also expected to create a revenue stream of $5-10 million per year
in the future, a significant boost to the Nation’s current reported $20 million in revenue
from transfer payments. The ‘Namgis have also hired a geologist to look for economic
potential in retired mineral claims within their territory.
5. Energy
‘Namgis First Nation has signed an agreement with a company from Quebec to build a dam on
the Kokish River. A 25% ownership position in the project is expected to generate significant
revenues and an annual donation from the company to community services. Three other hydro
proposals are being considered, all dependent on satisfying environmental assessments. Potential
also exists in wind power projects.
6. Labour force accommodation and training
‘Namgis First Nation has purchased land to build a new community not far from the
original ‘Namgis Village site, providing accommodation for members who want to pursue
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occupations on Vancouver Island. One participant wondered how the community can best
prepare for these exciting opportunities through training and skills development
programs.
Language and culture
Draft community plans include an expansion of U’mista Cultural Centre. “Culture cabins” are
being constructed throughout the ‘Namgis territory, with three already underway or completed.
The cabins will be available to hunters, families and school groups. Plans to restore ‘Namgis
House, the former residential school building, as a language center are under discussion. The cost
to restore the building is expected to be $10-12 million and is considered a significant barrier
given the limited resources available for language and culture programs. Participants also spoke
of the need to revitalize and focus on relearning of traditional remedies.
“Government should put money into language. They took it away.”
Recreation
Ideas suggested by youth for recreation in the community included: a skate park (2/4), a theatre, a
football/rugby field, an ice rink, a weight room in the ‘Namgis Recreation Centre, floor hockey
and a swimming pool. For seniors, plans are underway for a new library, senior’s drop-in centre
and small convenience store in a currently unoccupied former grocery store.
Communication
Ideas for addressing communication gaps identified above include postings on community
bulletin boards and distribution of brochures, on services for seniors for example.
Voluntarism
Campaigns, information and encouragement of youth and other community members were
identified as ways of addressing the need for more community volunteers.
“It would nice if there was a call for volunteers. I don’t think people realize the volunteer
opportunities that are available.”
Hannah Eklund of Snowchange explained that in small towns in Finland “you don't say no” to
volunteer work. Youth centres, scouting and a sense of heroism and responsibility contribute to
building enthusiasm among teens about what they are doing. Teens also serve as role models for
one another. Most are still volunteering in their twenties.
Planning
“It’s community based planning.”
The ‘Namgis First Nation is working to become the central planning authority for their territory.
Planning activities underway include development of a comprehensive ‘bioregional resource
inventory’ including a series of digital maps that describe the cultural and biophysical
characteristics of the territory. Land use plans are being developed at the different levels,
including territorial, watershed, special project and community scales. Each of these plans will
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describe goals, objectives and action plans linked to a range of general or specific land use zones.
Treaty Coordinator Doug Aberley presented examples of draft plans that have been prepared
based on a foundation of asserting First Nation rights and title and using a systematic approach
employing G.I.S. and long-term planning. Research and monitoring was identified as critical to
planning efforts. For the ‘Namgis the next step is for the two Councils on the island to review the
draft plans and modify them as needed. In the meantime members of Village of Alert Bay
Council are working to redraft an Official Community Plan revision prepared by an outside
consultant to make it more locally appropriate.
Cooperation
Both island governments recognize the need to cooperate in planning for the future and
have a history of doing just that. However, while the 1999 Historic Alert Bay Accord was
to be operationalized through the Historic Alert Bay Development Corp. by 2006 the
Corporation had become virtually defunct. Both governments are committed to
revitalizing the relationship and Mayor John Rowell has begun the necessary paperwork
to ensure the Corporation retains its legal status.
C. Possible Impacts of Climate Change on Future Development
1. Climate Changes in Past
There was a consensus that the climate has changed in Alert Bay and surrounding region,
especially in recent years. Habitat changes for salmon in both freshwater and ocean
environments have been observed, with reduced ocean productivity. Changes in timing
and variability of eulachon returns were also noted along with impacts of warmer air
temperatures on the processing of eulachon grease. One participant suggested that the
eulachon have been almost a month late arriving, adding that returns have declined.
Another recalls years of early returns. The order eulachon return to various river systems,
once starting on the Nass in the north and then working their way south towards
Kingcome and Knight Inlets, is also said to have changed.
“It’s been so hot the last few years the eulachon were rotting, almost cooking. Stevie
had to take his grease off early, otherwise it would have been too dark – like soya
sauce.”
Participants discussed the presence of “strange fish”, including mackerel, sunfish,
dolphins being caught in gillnets during the eulachon fishery, and pilchards (present
before).
The “living laboratory” of Hanson Island provides an opportunity for learning about past
climate change through the study of tree rings. One stump at the Earth Embassy camp is
said to date to 300-400 BC. Discussion ensued about the “little ice age” of the late 1800's
when rivers were reported to have frozen. Hanson Island tree rings show very tight rings
around that time period one participant explained, adding that ice ages have occurred in
cycles over time and represent another possible future climate change.
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One respondent suggests that summers have been drier rather than warmer, particularly
from May to October. This summer was the driest on record on Hanson Island since
monitoring began in 1983. Water was difficult to find for the Island’s few residents in
2006. Deer also suffered from lack of standing fresh water.
Changes in frog and toad populations have been observed on local islands and in Kingcome Inlet,
where one respondent reports there were frogs in the millions in the streets of Kingcome Village
until sometime in the 1980s. Another described a migration period for tree frogs in Kingcome
Village that corresponds with stories of “streets full of frogs” but was uncertain if this pattern still
occurs. Yet another participant observed that, after not seeing them all summer, frogs and toads
came out after the rain began on Hanson Island this fall. Others report toad population declines.
Respondents wondered if amphibian populations are declining and/or exhibiting behaviour
change (e.g. staying under cover during dry seasons).
Edible and medicinal plants such as riceroot and wintergreen have suffered from the dry
conditions on Hanson Island. Other noted changes in vegetation in Alert Bay and area noted
included the presence of a “cotton like plant” at the Gator Gardens Ecological Reserve. Berries
are said to arrive up to two months earlier than they used to.
“The bumblebees are early, and the salmon berries”.
An increase in late November/December hurricane winds was also observed. A blowdown of five
800-year old cedars coming down on Hanson Island in December 2005 with no evidence of
similar blowdown patterns was cited. Another respondent suggests the timing of flooding has
changed in Kingcome Inlet, previously occurring in the fall (September) and now in the summer.
Glaciers are also observed as being smaller/retreating. Salal has turned brown from saltwater
along the shoreline of Hanson Island, suggested evidence of a small degree of sea-level rise.
Participants observed warmer winter conditions, suggesting there was more snow and ice in the
past than in recent years.
“We used to be able to sleigh ride for weeks. There was deep snow and icy roads. We
used to skate at Gator Gardens. Not anymore.”
Hanna Eklund shared the results of interviews she conducted in the community since
2003, providing similar stories of less snowfall, warmer weather and water temperatures,
rivers becoming ice free earlier, melting glaciers and changes in seabird, frog and
mountain goat populations. A combination of logging and climate change impacts are
seen to be reducing the number of productive salmon streams and wiping out salmon
spawning beds. Aboriginal fishermen report getting sunburns for the first time.
Snowchange is working to document these observations in an interview database. Finally
participants acknowledged that our perceptions of climate change might have been altered
by changes in technology, lifestyle and even age (e.g. snow banks seemed higher!)
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2. Impacts of Changes in the Climate
The most significant impact on the community of the climate changes noted above has
been increased uncertainty. The eulachon fishery provides an excellent example. At one
time locals could predict the return date of these important fish and plan their annual
move to the mainland. Today this is more difficult. The timing of other traditional
activities, such as berry picking, has also been altered. Uncertain ocean conditions have
impacted the ability of local resource managers to predict salmon returns. Changing
freshwater conditions such as increased flooding in winter/spring seasons and drought in
summer may be contributing to declining salmon populations in the Nimpkish River
system. While residents believe their water supply will be adequate as long as the aquifer
continues to be recharged by Nimpkish River flows, water shortages in Tofino in 2006
have raised awareness of the limits and vulnerability of water supplies.
3. Climate Change and the Future of Alert Bay
Impacts on future plans
Alert Bay is particularly sensitive to changes in climate and marine ecology. Participants felt that
the impacts of climate change on future plans were likely to be significant, including changes in
fisheries species and declines in salmon populations. Salmon are expected to decline if
temperatures of rivers and oceans exceed thermal limits. Sockeye, heavily relied upon for food,
ceremony and the commercial fishery, are the most sensitive Pacific salmon species to
temperature change.
Tourism development may also be negatively impacted by climate change in the future. Salmon
declines may lead to a decline in Orca populations. One participant reported on research showing
that Orcas feed almost exclusively on Chinook salmon. Orcas are a major feature of the local
landscape and a tourist draw to the community. Grizzly bears also draw tourists to the region and
are reliant on salmon as a food source.
Increased temperatures may increase the number of growing days for some vegetation but
potential benefits from improved forest growth rates may be cancelled out by moisture stress,
more fires, more landslides triggered by more rain in fall and winter (endangering bridges and
roads) and increased windthrow. All of these factors may mean higher infrastructure and fire
protection costs as well as an altered species mix in the forest sector. Introduction of new species
and more and different pests may further stress indigenous vegetation. Concerns were expressed
about possible cultural impacts of cedar declines. Cedar has been important to the
Kwakwaka’wakw peoples since legends of floodtime and settlements dated back over 6000 years
by archaeologists.
“They call us a salmon people. We are also a cedar people.”
Changing water regimes may also impact processing and acid mine drainage prevention/
treatment strategies in the mining sector and create difficulties for hydroelectric production plans.
More rain in winter and less snowpack, which melts earlier, translates into lower river levels in
the summer, more, longer droughts and therefore unreliable water supply. Finally, sea level rise,
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erosion and extreme weather events are expected to be a threat to plans for new marine
infrastructure.
Potential positive outcomes of climate change were also discussed. These include reduction in
home heating costs as well as warmer summers and longer tourism shoulder seasons. The sewage
plant is likely to process waste more efficiently and ungulates may have increased habitat and
less winter stress due to less snow. One respondent replied, however, that research has shown that
moose require cold weather to prevent hoof rot and wondered if deer and elk might be similarly
impacted. New species are likely to be present in warmer habitats, providing new fisheries
opportunities. Finally, opportunities for commercial agriculture may increase; “sweet corn, field
tomatoes, pole beans and onions!!”
Despite an awareness of how climate may change and what that might mean for the community’s
future plans, participants pointed out that there is much uncertainty about the long-term outcomes
of climate change. One suggested that while the community’s future may be uncertain,
“The earth is one big being. She will fight back and heal herself.”
Note: See also Sutherst (2006) “A Report on the Potential Impacts of Climate Change in the
North Island Region”.
Adaptation strategies
Participants suggested that island residents and their governments should be paying attention to
climate change and doing their part to reduce negative effects by planning with energy efficiency
in mind, acting locally and demanding that politicians do the same. Good governance was seen as
key, including continued institutional adaptation and development. Additional strategies include
maintaining a stronger awareness of biological and physical changes in the regional environment;
planning and budgeting for potential climate related costs; and even seeking redress/
compensation from parties responsible for pollution and/or lack of strong public policy
initiatives. Participants feel that climate change should be incorporated into community plans and
local leaders expressed a commitment to this goal.
“We have to have it on the table, on our agenda and make a point of doing something
about it. Lead by example. Push our politicians and talk about it more ourselves.”
“For the ‘Namgis this is an exciting time with many challenges. Climate change
is one of them. We ought not to be daunted by climate change but to add climate
change to our decisions.”
“The Village can take steps such as putting a long term budget plan in place with a
reserve fund that takes potential climate change impacts into account and we will now
incorporate climate change into our OCP.”
“We need local alternatives to feeding the petroleum complex”.
Both educating youth about climate change and involving them in addressing these issues within
the community was recommended. Examples were provided from Guatemala and Black Hills of
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youth involved in developing energy efficient technologies such as pedal powered machines,
“hands-on projects in a setting where everyone is having a good time.” Leadership by role
models was also suggested, for example “the Band working to be carbon free”. Incorporating
environmental themes into other projects, such as a skateboard park, was another idea.
Other specific recommendations included:
•
diversify commercial fishing licenses, maintain strong awareness of newly developing
fisheries
•
place more emphasis on recreational boaters, cultural interpretation, wilderness camping
and hiking, selling authentic coastal community life, and developing Cormorant Island as
meeting venue (as opposed to whale watching or salmon fishing for example)
•
environmental impact assessments for new mines must take into account water shortage
issuesdevelop hydroelectric projects that have opportunity for impoundment and possibly
prioritizing investment in ‘reliable’ tidal or wind power over hydroelectricanticipate sea
wall improvement/replacement
•
establish a monitoring program, including reestablishment of the weather station
A guest participant from Australia offered suggestions for energy efficient housing alternatives,
including: rammed earth and yurt-style buildings, solar and wind power, building positioning,
composting toilets, worm farms for waste, rain tanks and grey water recycling. She warned,
however, that there is an “incredible bureaucratic resistance” to unconventional technology and
design ideas.
Communication about climate change is made more difficult by the confusion around the issue
but participants felt that, despite this confusion, people in the community need to be made more
aware of climate change issues. Participants recognized that barriers in communication, finding
the finances to achieve these strategies and other constraints reviewed above must be kept in
mind when developing realistic plans for adapting to climate change in the future.
D. Summary and Conclusions
The Alert Bay workshop reinforced the importance of a holistic approach to planning and
development and to building more resilient communities capable of not only adapting to change
but also creating it. Key concerns for the future of Alert Bay include engaging youth in
community planning and leadership, individual health and well-being, and sustaining the health
of the natural resources, environments and cultures upon which the community depends. Both
‘Namgis First Nation and the Village of Alert Bay are focused on creating economic
opportunities, including jobs that people can support a family on but also a non-cash/informal
economy that sustains a culture connected to the land and sea. The approach described seeks
development that supports rather than degrades social, cultural and ecological as well as
economic well-being, balancing long term and short term perspectives. Arguably it is this holistic
approach, linked to strong leadership, community spirit and connection to place (including values
of environmental stewardship) that has enabled the community of Alert Bay to sustain itself
through centuries of change. Although not the most immediate or pressing change the community
is facing today, residents and community leaders recognize climate change as one factor that is
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likely to impact their plans for the future and are committed to including it as one of many
considerations being taken into account in their ongoing planning processes.
“Adaptable cultures in the past, adaptable in the future”
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Appendix A – Workshop participants
Alert Bay residents:
1. John Rowell, Mayor, Village of Alert Bay
2. Eddie McDougall, artist and former fisherman
3. Ed Dawson, former fisherman, hereditary chief Musgamgw Tsawataineuk
4. Miss Dawn Cranmer, business owner (tourism, wreath making and traditional medicines),
‘Namgis CMT/Archaeology crew
5. Sharon Gordon, ‘Namgis Youth Employment Officer
6. Peggy Svanvik, ‘Namgis Elder, Board member U’mista Cultural Centre
7. Bob Godwin, Village Councillor and Advisory Planning Commission
8. Joan Stone, artist/local resident
9. Flora Cook, retired First Nations educator
10. Harry Alfred, Land Use Coordinator
11. Maxine Williams, business owner (Old Customs House)
12. Chuck Wong, business owner (Alert Bay Electronics)
13. Don Svanvik, ‘Namgis hereditary chief and CMT/Archaeology crew supervisor
14. Marty Weinstein, ‘Namgis Aquatic Resources Coordinator
15. Pat Anderson, local resident
16. David Garrick, author, researcher and guardian, Earth Embassy, Hanson Island
17. Lillian Hunt, Village Council, tourism business operator, U’mista Cultural Centre
18. Denise Cranmer, educator (T'lisalagi'lakw School Secondary Program)
19. Michael Berry, biologist and environmental consultant
20. Matt MacClaskey, Counsellor
Input in absentia also provided by ‘Namgis hereditary chief William Wasden and by youth in the
community through email with the assistance of Irene Isaac of T'lisalagi'lakw School Secondary
Program.
Workshop facilitators and resource people:
• Maureen Woodrow and Mike Brklacich, Carleton University
• Kelly Vodden, Patricia Gallaugher and Andres Araujo, Simon Fraser University
• Hanna Eklund, Showchange Cooperative
• Dawn Cranmer, ‘Namgis First Nation
• Bonnie MacDonald, Canberra Australia/Qualicum, BC
Alert Bay project/workshop steering committee: Doug Aberley, George Speck, Marty Weinstein
and Mona Madill, ‘Namgis First Nation, John Rowell, Mike Berry and Bob Godwin, Village of
Alert Bay and Andrea Sanborn, U’mista Cultural Centre
Reference
Tompkins, E. and N. Adger (2004) "Does Adaptative Management of Natural Resources
Enhance Resilience to Climate Change?" Ecology and Society V9, No. 2, October.
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Appendix B - Timeline diagram
Salmon industry decline
Salmon saltery (70)
and cannery (81)
built – coast-wide
expansion
Fishery
1870
Cannery
closures
1890
BC joins Canada –
“Indian Affairs” “public” lands
given to the prov.,
Policy
reserves est.
Restriction of
access to
Nimpkish
River
Disease e.g. smallpox
Demographics
1930
Initial settlers arrive
1950
Mid-80s
peak
1970
WWII economic
boom, Village
incorporated
Decline of fur trade,
logging industry est.
Economic
change – other
Health &
Lifestyle
1910
Davis
Plan
- salmon
declines
1990
Recession,
forest industry
consolidation
Residential school years (‘29-‘67)
’69 White Paper
Kwakwaka’wakw
pop. hits low
Significant change in diet
(more processed foods),
drug and alcohol abuse
‘Namgis pop.
recovery
Settler/transient
population wave
Draft Summary Report - Alert Bay Workshop, by Kelly Vodden with Dawn Cranmer and Andres Araujo
2006
Forest and Range A.
Orca Sand & Gravel
Loss of fuel dock
Land claims and legal cases
Enforcement of 1884 potlatch ban (’14-’51)
T.B.
Mifflin
Plan
New hospital, services,
diet programs, use of
traditional medicines,
health indicator poor
but improving?
Mid-80s
pop. peak
Municipal
population
decline, growth
on reserve(s)
Pop. back to mid-80s
levels, slight islandwide growth
1