The Tla’amin Nation Territorial Stewardship Department is responsible for protecting Tla’amin cultural heritage and overseeing land-related activities within Tla’amin territory. Tla’amin Nation ensures that development, harvesting, research, and land-altering activities uphold Tla’amin values, comply with cultural and heritage laws, and respect the Nation’s relationship with the land.
Department Summary
Our team reviews development proposals, coordinates archaeological and cultural assessments, processes permits, and manages referrals from government bodies, organizations, and individuals. Through close collaboration with Culture and Heritage Technicians, the department safeguards material heritage and supports responsible use of Tla’amin lands today and for future generations. The Territorial Stewardship Department reviews all proposed activities to identify impacts on cultural or archaeological sites.
Beyond Archaeology
Territorial stewardship covers more than archaeological review:
Tourism and Parks
- Working with local groups to keep trails and campsites open, operating, and respectful of the environment.
Forestry
- Helping Thichum and outside proponents make informed decisions on harvesting forest resources.
Community Engagement
- Educating the qathet region on the rich cultural heritage in this area — some sites in t̓išosəm date back 10,000 years.
Tla’amin Connect
- A portal system used to evaluate and make recommendations on projects taking place within ʔəms gɩǰɛ.
Marine Planning
- Keeping Tla’amin waters healthy and productive while restoring fisheries and food sources.
Mines and Minerals
- Helping keep mining safe and considerate of the best interests of the community and the land.
Q&A
Referrals are submitted through the Tla’amin Connect portal. After creating an account, users can upload project information, maps, and documents for review. The Lands Department assesses submissions to ensure cultural and environmental responsibilities are met, then follows up with next steps or required assessments.
Yes. Any activities that may disturb the land which includes excavation, construction, commercial harvesting, research, or resource use, requires review and approval. This includes removing vegetation. This ensures cultural heritage, archaeological sites, and environmental values are protected before work begins.
Technicians can be scheduled by submitting a request through Tla’amin Connect or by contacting the department by email. They conduct field assessments, monitor activities, and provide cultural oversight to ensure work aligns with Tla’amin laws and protocols.
General information is available through the Lands Department and this webpage. However, specific archaeological data is restricted for cultural protection and is not publicly released under Tla’amin law. Public resources, permitted reports, and studies are available here (links/anchor to documents)
Community members and permitted users may be required to obtain harvesting or mushroom collection permits from the Tla’amin administrative offices.