The K'omoks First Nation live in the land of plenty and have a rich and bountiful life where they harvest salmon, shellfish, herring, deer, elk, seal, cod, rockfish, geese, duck, and a plethora of berries and plant foods. The harvest, preparation and cultivation of local resources need to remain appropriate to the environment, resource, and spiritual beliefs. Fish weirs, duck nets, berry picking techniques and clothing design met the needs of the K’ómoks, and for generations provided variety, utility, and sense of cultural uniqueness. This professional event looks at life on the Comox River – where we explore traditional fishing techniques and we will look at a former
abandoned sawmill site at the edge of the K’omoks estuary which has been undergoing restoration to its natural state. This project was part of a 2019 commitment from government to the Comox Valley Project Watershed Society that supports the purchase of the former industrial site, so it can be returned to saltmarsh, side-channel and riparian habitats. This supports the recovery of fish and wildlife species, and mitigates flooding in the region.

The project site is named Kus-kus-sum in recognition of the historic First Nation ancestral burial site once located in the area. The

property is a sensitive ecological site and was historically used by the K’ómoks people as the final resting place of their ancestors. The project has been identified as an important step in the path toward reconciliation with the K’ómoks people. The estuary is considered one of the most valuable estuaries on the west coast of B.C. for its size, intertidal biodiversity and for its importance to salmon habitat.

Meet at parking lot at Lewis Park. South of the Old Island Highway just before the Fifth Street Bridge in Comox, BC.

Cost: None. Snacks to be provided.

Safety: Bring sturdy boots/shoes as we are walking along a river side, dress for the weather (sunscreen or rain jackets) and drinks/water bottles as we are outdoors.

Transportation: To reduce our carbon emissions for this event if you are able to offer a ride or need a ride from Victoria/Duncan to the site please email us. We will do our best to connect drivers/riders. Natalie Tashe Natalie.tashe@outlook.com and local K'omox contact: Jennifer Anema jennifer.anema@gmail.com

Please note that photographs and footage will be taken throughout the tour. These will be used by BCIA for marketing and publicity in our publications, on our website, newsletters, and on social media. Should you not wish to have your photo taken, please advise the photographer at the time.

The final timeline to sign up for this event will be September 7, 2023.

FMI: projectwatershed.ca