Quw'utsun Newsletter - May 2024

Message from Chief Cindy Daniels

Quw’utsun Mustimuhw,

I’m pleased to report that in late March, our council met to determine the composition of our Council Committees and Boards. You can find updated information regarding the Council members that serve on these committees on our website here: https://cowichantribes.com/tribes-governance/chief-and-council/committeesindex and in the following pages. Additionally, it was decided that Calvin Swustus Sr. will serve as our Deputy Chief. This position is outlined in our Custom Election Law: https://cowichantribes.com/election-code.

After generations of having been excluded from decision making related to our forests, Cowichan Tribes through the Quw’utsun Nation, is in discussions with the Municipality of North Cowichan to develop a co-management framework regarding the Municipal Forest Reserve (MFR). While this work is underway, North Cowichan will suspend all new decisions or initiatives related to the MFR. Ongoing forest related work such as FireSmart mitigation, danger tree assessments and removals, storm clean up, silviculture activities, and invasive plant management will continue as required. Cowichan Tribes, along with the other Quw'utsun Nation communities, is looking forward to working more closely with North Cowichan to take up our stewardship responsibilities within our ancestral territory.

As Chief of Cowichan Tribes, I am deeply concerned regarding the recent reports I have seen relating to a publication entitled, Grave Error: How the Media Misled Us. This compilation seeks to minimize and defend the traumatic and often deadly experiences forced upon generations of Residential School attendees. The intergenerational impacts of Residential Schools on our community are lived each day by our people; they are not a theoretical concept that can be disproven by those with a political agenda. The content of this book and others that promote disinformation and seek to deny our lived experiences are not to be supported. Cowichan Tribes stands in solidarity with the Lhtako Dene Nation, the City Councillors of Quesnel, and the B.C. Assembly of First Nations in denouncing this propaganda and standing up against denialists.

This month, Council meetings will be held on May 14th and May 28th

Please join me in wishing all our mothers, grandmothers, aunties, and caregivers a 'Iyus T-en Skweyul (Happy Mother’s Day) on May 12th . Chief Cindy Daniels

Chief & Council Boards and Committee Assignments

Chief & Council Boards and Committee Assignments

Please note:

 The Chief sits on all Council Boards and Committees.

 The numbered companies are not committees and do not meet. They are companies holding assets for Cowichan Tribes. The Councilors are shareholders on behalf of the Nation. Most numbered company business will be managed with one meeting a year if necessary.

Terri Allen

Costa Canna

Workforce and Development Committee (previously Human Resources Committee)

Land Investigation Committee

Lalum’utul Smun’eem Jurisdiction WG – Child and Family Legislation Project issue

Education Committee

Governance Policy and Law Committee

Francine Alphonse

Khowutzun Development Corporation

Khowutzun Development LLP

City of Duncan/North Cowichan/CVRD

Cowichan Bay Planning Committee

Health Advisory Committee

Natural Resources Committee (previously Fishing Committee

Cowichan Tribes Treaty Committee

Lalum’utul Smun’eem Jurisdiction WG – Child and Family Legislation Project issue

Youth and Rec Committee

0942071 (Dike)

0944623 (Gravel)

Jennifer Charlie

Village Green Mall-Cowichan Mini Mall Ltd.

Workforce and Development Committee (previously Human Resources Committee)

Citizenship Committee

Housing Committee

Governance Policy and Law Committee

0942071 (Dike)

Christopher Alphonse

Mustimuhw Information Solutions Inc.

Cowichan Watershed Board

Finance & Audit Committee

Housing Committee

Tumuhw’ Committee

Land Investigation Committee

Cowichan Tribes Treaty Committee

Cowichan Nation Alliance

Lalum’utul Smun’eem Jurisdiction WG – Child and Family

Legislation Project issue

Education Committee

Youth and Rec Committee

Governance Policy and Law Committee

0990409 BC Ltd.

0942071 (Dike)

0944623 (Gravel)

Tasha Brooks

Khowutzun Development Corporation

Duncan – Chamber of Commerce

Workforce and Development Committee (previously Human Resource Committee)

Finance & Audit Committee

Education Committee

Troy Elliott

Citizenship Committee

Tumuhw’ Committee (alternate)

Cowichan Tribes Treaty Committee

Cowichan Nation Alliance

Education Committee

Natural Resources Committee (formerly Fishing Committee)

0990409 BC Ltd.

0942071 (Dike) 0944623 (Gravel)

Chief & Council Boards and Committee Assignments

Chief & Council Boards and Committee Assignments

Please note:

 The Chief sits on all Council Boards and Committees.

 The numbered companies are not committees and do not meet. They are companies holding assets for Cowichan Tribes. The Councilors are shareholders on behalf of the Nation. Most numbered company business will be managed with one meeting a year if necessary.

Audrey George

Land Investigation Committee

Elder’s Advisory Committee

Finance & Audit Committee

Khowutzun Development LLP

Quw’utsun Kw’atl’kwa Fisheries Society 0626875 (Nursery Lands)

Calvin Swustus Jr

Khowutzun Gaming Corporation

Cowichan Tribes Treaty Committee

Cowichan Nation Alliance

Cowichan Core Recreation 0942071 (Dike) 0944623 (Gravel)

Amanda Sylvester

Citizenship Committee

Lalum’utul Smun’eem Jurisdiction WG – Child and Family

Legislation Project issue

Youth and Rec Committee

Khowutzun Development LLP

0990409 BC Ltd.

Howie George

Khowutzun Development Corporation

Cowichan Nation Alliance

Khowutzun Development LLP

Calvin Swustus Sr.

Khowutzun Development Corporation

Khowutzun Gaming Corporation

Island Corridor Foundation

Cowichan Watershed Board

Cowichan Public Art Gallery Board

Workforce and Development Committee (previously Human Resources Committee)

Finance & Audit Committee

Health Advisory Committee

Tumuhw’ Committee

Land Investigation Committee

Cowichan Tribes Treaty Committee

Cowichan Nation Alliance

HTG Board of Directors (alternate)

Lalum’utul Smun’eem Jurisdiction WG – Child and Family Legislation Project issue

Education Committee

Elder’s Advisory Committee

Governance Policy and Law Committee

Costa Canna 0942071 (Dike) 0944623 (Gravel)

Debra Toporowski

Khowutzun Gaming Corporation

Mustimuhw Information Solutions Inc.

Duncan – Chamber of Commerce

Health Advisory Committee

Tumuhw’ Committee

Natural Resources Committee (previously Fishing Committee)

Lalum’utul Smun’eem Jurisdiction WG – Child and Family Legislation Project issue

Message from Acting Chief Administrative Officer

‘Uy’ skweyul,

Our departments are busy getting ready for our annual Open House on May 15th from 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm at the Si’em Lelum Gym. Our goal is to create a fun, family-friendly event with something for everyone. We invite you to come see us to:

 Learn about and ask questions regarding the programs and services our departments provide, including employment and training opportunities. Some departments will even have services available onsite.

 Share your input and ideas regarding a variety of initiatives.

 Meet some of our partner organizations and learn about the work we are doing together

 Enjoy a BBQ, participate in cultural activities, and enter to win prizes!

Following the adoption of the Custom Election Law, an independent Complaints and Appeals Board has been created. The Board is comprised of a Cowichan Tribes Elder, Cowichan Tribes citizens, and a representative that is not a citizen, but has expertise in law, conflict, or elections. Board members cannot work for Cowichan Tribes or be part of the election.

The Complaints and Appeals Board is responsible for hearing petitions to remove a chief or councillor, and appeals of a Cowichan Election. They must integrate Syuwentst (the teachings) into all aspects of their work. To learn more or for contact information, please visit the Complaints & Appeals Board’s website: https://www.quwutsunappeals.ca.

Following the successful passing of the Snuy’uy’ulhtst ti Quw’utsun Mustimuhw u’ tu Shhw’a’luqwa’a’ l’ Smun’eem - Laws of the Cowichan People for Families and Children, we are now preparing for full jurisdiction of Child and Family Services. This work includes recruiting 5-9 individuals to serve on the Stsi’elh stuhw’ew’t -hw tun Smun’eem Board of Directors. Preference will be given to Cowichan citizens on and off reserve and the Board will include at least one Sul-hween, one youth, and one fluent Hul’q’umi’num’ speaker.

Applications are available at www.cowichantribes.com and the deadline is to submit your package is May 6, 2024 at 4:00 pm.

It’s that time of year again! Spring Clean Up is underway. Check out the calendar and information regarding pick up in this newsletter.

Dana (Sunaxwumaat) Thorne

Happy Mothers Day!

Social Development

Cowichan Tribes

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

5760 Allenby Road • Duncan, BC V9L 5J1

Telephone (778) 422-2255

Fax: (778-) 422-1303

Website: www.cowichantribes.com

May 21, 2024 cheque issue for June 2024

Social Development Reminders:

 Stubs are to be completed May 1 - 10, 2024; all utility bills (BC Hydro, Fortis BC, etc.) are to come to Social Development so client share is paid and up to date;

 Please pick up your T5 is you have not already done so. The deadline to complete 2023 income tax returns is April 30, 2024. A copy of client “Notice of Assessment” is required for your Social Development file each year. Please note - filing income taxes on time will mean there will be no delay in benefits;

 If you are 64 years of age, please apply for Canada Pension Plan, Old Age Security and Guaranteed Income Supplement 11 months prior to your 65th birthday; this will ensure there is no delay in receiving pension;

 Social Development is meant to be a last resort. If you secure employment, please notify your Band Social Development Worker; additional support may be available;

 If you are considered “Employable”, you are required to be actively seeking employment and/or taking part in Pre-employment Support Program.

Social Development Programs:

 Pre-Employment Supports Program team consists of: Shelley Thorne, Wenona George, Sebastian Cassorla, and Sherry Jimmy. Please follow up with the team if you have been referred; there will be upcoming programs.

Flood Preparedness Never Stops at Emergency Services!

Through funding from multiple grants, Cowichan Tribes Emergency Services Team has been working hard to secure the necessary equipment and personnel to ensure we are as ready as we can be during a flood.

There is a Flood Response Plan ready to activate at all times that is continuously updated. This plan includes deployment of equipment and staff including two Tiger Dam Trailers, designated Emergency Support Services Team, and an Emergency Operations Centre.

Cowichan Tribes works closely with various agencies, and other government organizations to clarify roles and responsibilities during and after a flood. As we continue to complete training, and gain equipment, we also can apply what we learned from previous floods to complete successful planning supporting flood preparedness, flood response, and flood recovery.

We are asking Quw'utsun Mustimuhw to do their part and complete their Emergency Plan, and to know what to do during a disaster - such as a flood - by preparing before it happens. An emergency plan says how you and the people you live with will respond to a disaster. Knowing what to do, where to go, and who to contact will reduce stress and help keep you focused and safe.

Use the QR code or link to find more information on how to complete your Emergency Plan with your family.

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/ preparedbc/make-your-plan

Cowichan Tribes offers the Hawk Solutions App as a quick and effective way to communicate during an emergency - download is free for either Apple or Android devices.

Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum’ - Transportation

Did You Miss Early Registration Day ?

Wednesday, May 15th, 2024, is Cowichan Tribes Annual Open House - visit all our departments! Come stop by the Education table from 12-6pm and get ready for September 2024/2025.

Ready Set, Register, and get rolling and scheduled for the new school year with Transportation. We can also email you a bus application or stop by the office at 5744 Allenby Road.

BEFORE THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL HELP US SERVE YOU BETTER AND GET YOUR ROUTES TO YOU.

DATES TO REMEMBER FOR MAY

Wednesday, May 1, 2024 - Queen of Angels will be dismissed at 2pm.

Friday, May 3, 2024 - Professional Development Day-schools will closed for SD# 79 and Quw’utsun Smuneem Elementary School.

Wednesday, May 15, 2024 - 2-hour Early Dismissal for SD#79 and Quw’utsun Smuneem Elementary only

Friday May, 17, 2024 - Queen of Angels School only will be closed for Professional Development Day.

Monday, May, 20, 2024 - Statutory Holiday – ALL SCHOOLS AND OFFICES WILL BE CLOSED FOR VICTORIA DAY.

PLEASE CALL 250-715-1022 & ASK FOR TRANSPORTATION IF YOU HAVE ANY CONCERNS/QUESTIONS

Huy Tseep q’u (Thank you Everyone)

Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum’ - Post-Secondary Department

Updates from the Post- Secondary Team

Two important updates:

Proof of Enrollment: Living allowance for May, June, July, or August, cannot be extended until you have provided proof of enrollment for the summer session. Confirmation that you are registered and committed to the summer session you applied for is required. Two courses will be considered full-time at most universities or colleges.

Are you graduating this summer? Please contact us if you’re graduating this summer. We will need to receive your unofficial transcript once summer sessions are complete, so you’re included in the graduation ceremony this summer. The ceremony will be held in July or August.

Great work everyone and keep up all the hard work!

Richard Hock and Ellen Seymour in the Post-Secondary dept.

May

Environmental Opportunities

Volunteer

Rugged Coast Research Society: research, monitoring, education, and restoration of BC shorelines. Training provided. https://www.ruggedcoastresearchsociety.com/volunteer

Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre: no special qualifications required, training provided. https:// www.cowichanestuary.ca/volunteer/

Employment

Marine Environmental Project Manager: Cowichan Tribes is accepting applications to join the Lulumexun Lands and Self-Governance department in advancing all aspects of Cowichan Tribes environmental projects that hold potential to impact fresh water, estuarine environments and the marine foreshore. Application deadline is May 10. For full job posting, visit: http://www.cowichantribes.com/employment

FUTURE WORK OPPORTUNITY FOR QUW’UTSUN YOUTH: Help organize a Marine Community Forum for 2024. Contact John Stewart, Marine Projects Supervisor at (236) 800-4023, Ext 6023, or john.stewart@cowichantribes.com.

Youth Science Ambassador (YSA): Ocean Networks Canada’s YSA program connects youth with ocean science and Indigenous wisdom. Part-time, remote work positions for ages 18 30. For details, visit: www.oceannetworks.ca/about-onc/jobs-and-opportunities

Events

Youth, Elders and Leadership Event on Sidney Island: The Indigenous Management Board, in collaboration with Parks Canada, is planning an event on June 19 to bring Youth, Elders, and Leadership of the 11 coastal Nations together on the lands and waters. The event will involve travel by water taxi from Cowichan Bay, and opportunities to learn about ecological restoration projects and food harvesting. For more details, contact erika.laanela@cowichantribes.com.

Western Washington University and the eDNA Collaborative Virtual Roundtable: eDNA in the Salish Sea: eDNA Director Ryan Kelly will discuss how eDNA provides insights for ecosystem management, highlighting recent research and applications, like tracking the European Green Crab. May 7 12:30pm 1:30pm. To learn more and register, visit: www.pugetsoundinstitute.org/collaboration/salish-sea-science-roundtable

Southern Gulf Islands Sea Gardens Campouts—The Hul’q’umi’num’ Lands and Resources Society and Parks Canada will be holding regular campouts to maintain the Sea Gardens in the Gulf Islands, sites nurtured by our ancestors to enhance food species populations. Food and camping gear provided. To register, or for more information, contact: Kathleen Johnnie: salishkat@outlook.com or Erich Kelch: erich.kelch@pc.gc.ca

Kw’atl’kwa (Ocean) Updates

The S-hwuhwa’us Thi’lutKw’atl’kwa Youth Outreach Program inFull Swing StudentsGainingHands-OnExperience inIndigenous-LedMarine Stewardship Empowering Quw’utsun Youth

This month, the S-hwuhwa'us Thi'lut Kwa'tl'kwa (Thunderbird Protecting the Ocean) team hosted students from the Quw-utsun Hu-yix'wule' school (ages 13-18) and the Environmental Stewardship program at Cowichan Secondary School on the beaches of Cowichan Bay. The students are learning about the important stewardship work being done by our Marine Team using our binoculars and scope to collect data, and conducting on-water monitoring on our vessel, the Smuqw’a’.

These efforts are part of a broader strategy to make connections with Quw'utsun youth and engage them in caring for our Tumuhw (land, water, air) and all beings that inhabit these areas.

Youth-Led Marine Forum

Cowichan Tribes, in partnership with The Georgia Strait Alliance, is working to engage community members of all ages to support the ongoing development of current and future programming of Cowichan Tribes’ Marine Territory Vision.

This summer, with support from Quw'utsun elders and knowledge keepers, we are looking to work directly with Cowichan youth to design their vision of a Marine Community Forum, to be held this fall. Possible concepts include, but are not limited to:



In-field educational workshops

 Traditional foods and medicines open house

 Online video series, or social media campaign

 Hands-on invasive species removal gatherings

In June, we will be holding paid planning sessions to gauge interest and determine the project’s direction. Follow us on Facebook for more updates.

This forum will provide an exciting opportunity for sharing and learning about Cowichan Tribes marine territory and the stewardship projects therein. Interested youth can add their name to the growing list of applicants using the code or link:

YOUTH-LED MARINE FORUM

Revitalizing Natural Systems: An

Important Update on the Cowichan Estuary Restoration Project

Significant changes have occurred in the Cowichan estuary since the arrival of European colonizers in the 1800’s. These alterations include river training, diking of marsh habitat, and use of the estuary for logging and shipping. In the 1950’s, the estuary was bisected by the construction of the Westcan Terminal Causeway, cutting off the southern half of the estuary from the Quw’utsun Sta’lo’ (Cowichan River) and altering natural tidal processes.

Since 2018, partners of the Cowichan Estuary Restoration Project have been studying and assessing the estuary’s resiliency to climate change impacts. This process included rigorous engineering and hydraulic analysis by independent researchers, as well as by federal and provincial government ministries. Its findings have been reviewed by regional authorities and approved under the Dike Maintenance Act of BC. The assessments clearly demonstrate that, without intervention, sea level rise will drown marsh surface sediment necessary for eelgrass and other wildlife to survive.

This month, as project leaders and property owners, the Nature Trust of BC (NTBC) will be undertaking the required application process through the BC Agricultural Land Commission to decommission the Dinsdale Dike. Recognizing that this project advances long-term goals and efforts that Cowichan Tribes has been pursuing on behalf of our members, Lulumexun will be in attendance in support of NTBC’s application. The restoration and enhancement of Chinook salmon habitat and safe shellfish harvesting, and the reintroduction of native food and medicinal plant species will help restore our traditional agricultural practices and advance food sovereignty for Quw’utsun Mustimuhw.

This project also prompts us to reconsider fundamental questions, such as ‘What constitutes agriculture?’ For thousands of years, prior to colonization, our ancestors supported large communities through intricate food and trade systems, all while maintaining a minimal impact on the ecosystems they depended upon. Now, through initiatives like the Cowichan Estuary Restoration Project, which includes invasive species removal and food system restoration, we anticipate a revival of opportunities for our citizens.

JOIN US FOR THE ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE

When: Wednesday, May 15, 2024

12:00 PM—6:00 PM

Where: Si’em Lelum Gymnasium

Connect with members of our team and ask housing related questions! Play our Maintenance Plinko game for a chance to win PRIZES! Members of our staff will be available to discuss:

By keeping up with regular maintenance, you avoid the need to pay for major repairs which are often very expensive. When you maintain your appliances, they run more efficiently. More efficient appliances mean lower utility bills. When a home is properly maintained, its value is higher because its systems do not require expensive repairs.

Appliances Run More Efficiently

If you feel unable to manage maintenance on your own, its important to ask for help. Reach out to our Department and we can connect you with professionals who can help.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

UNINSURED VEHICLES

Please be advised, all vehicles on band land are required to have valid insurance. If vehicles are uninsured, they risk being towed at the owner’s expense.

If you currently have an uninsured vehicle parked on band land, please consider one of these 2 options:

1. Have the vehicle crushed by Al at Sounders Towing and receive payment of $100. Please contact (250) 252-1224 to arrange this solution.

2. Contact John Charlie for the following services:

a) $150/month for storage (available for 3 months maximum)

b) Sign over vehicle ownership to John for removal

c) If vehicle is abandoned, John will pick up free of charge

All primary tenants are required to have vehicles insured, crushed or towed. If a vehicle is found to be uninsured, it will be towed at owner’s expense and the primary tenant will receive a notice regarding non-compliance of the Band Rental Agreement.

Please keep in mind, if you currently park a vehicle that encroaches on the curb or sidewalk, you are required to move the vehicle immediately. This issueis a safety concernwhichcan affect the abilityof emergency vehicles to attend emergent scenes. If you continue to park on the curb or sidewalk the primary tenant will receive a notice for non-compliance and additional measures for a solution will be explored. Huy ch q’u (Thank you) for your attention to this important housing matter.

www.cowichantribes.com/housing

facebook@cowichantribeshousing (250) 715-3302

VEGETABLE HOW TO START A GARDEN

Choosing Garden Location

Did you know a small garden can provide your family with a steady stream of fresh vegetables all summer long? There are also numerous health benefits to getting a garden going.

Choosing the location of your garden is important. Gardens need at least 6-8 hours of full sun every day so make sure your garden is in an open area. Try to locate your garden near your home or patio to make watering and weeding easier.

Dirt Matters

Having soil with enough nutrients is key to growing a garden. Aim for 50% garden soil and 50% compost or mix some compost into your existing yard soil to keep vegetables happy.

Choosing Supplies

Raised Beds or Containers

We recommend using raised beds or planters for your garden. Elevating the veggies even this small amount can help control weeds and save you lots of time in the long run.

You don’t need much, but we recommend having a spade, garden rake, some good gloves and gardening shears.

Selecting Vegetables

While it can be tempting to plant a variety of vegetables, it might be best to start small and work your way up to a larger garden. Start with a couple varieties that are known to grow well in your area and once you have mastered the basics, branch out to other vegetables next Spring.

CAPITAL PROJECTS

PROJECT NEARING COMPLETION

Low Pressure Sewer Project – Zones 1,2,3,4,5-2

Construction is substantially complete for the Low Pressure Sewer Project – Zones 1,2,3,4,5-2 with the minor deficiencies remaining. Zone 1 (Shmaqwathut Road), Zone 2 (Glenora Road), Zones 3 (Koksilah Road), and Zone 4 (Boys Road Area) have all been successfully connected to municipal sewer and are operational. Check out some of our project photos!

WARRANTY IN EFFECT

A 1 year warranty period is in affect since the end of October 2023 to October 2024. If you have been provided a low pressure sewer connection, please contact the Capital Projects Department if you have any issues or concerns with your low pressure sewer connection so they can be corrected under the 1 year warranty. We appreciate your patience as we complete this project. Please contact James Ouellette in the Capital Projects Department at (250) 715-3302 with any questions or concerns related to this project.

Pictured above is a connection to the CVRD force main on Mission Road.

Pictured right is installation of 75mm HDPE pipe on Mission Road.

Pictured left is a 15,000 Litre Septic Tank installed on Boys Road.

CAPITAL PROJECTS

PROJECT FUNDED AND IN PLANNING STAGES

Lhumlhumuluts' Low Pressure Sewer Project (Zone 7)

Project funding has been obtained to connect the following areas to the municipal sewer system:

 Tzouhalem Road, between Cowichan Bay Road and Samuel Road, including Jimmy Road and Samuel Road

 Sahilton Road, East of Wil’seem Road

A total of 24 existing houses and 1 community building (Lhumlhumuluts’ Big House) are to be connected with allowance for future connections. These connections will be by a STEP (Septic Tank Effluent Pump) low pressure sewer system installed at individual houses at the location of the existing septic tank. They will be connected to a sewer force main on the main road, transporting the effluent to the municipal system. This will include a new septic tank, pump, pump panel, and service line to be installed at each house and community building. Existing septic tanks and fields will be decommissioned. The Contract for this work is currently in the tender/bidding process.

If you are a Cowichan Tribes owned contracting company and wish to meet with the prospective General Contractor, please contact James Ouellette at the Capital Projects Department at james.ouellette@cowichantribes.com. A meeting will be held with the General Contractor and any interested Cowichan Tribes Contractors to discuss opportunities for work on this project.

Construction is anticipated to begin in Spring 2024. Further information on timing and community disruptions will be provided once available.

It may seem as though there isn’t a lot of Capital Project work happening around the community, but there is a lot happening behind the scenes. Our buildings team is in the planning stages of a new Health Centre and a Recreation/Youth Centre, as well as some landscaping changes surrounding the Band Administration Offices. We are also continuing to work on property acquisitions both on and off-Reserve to support department programming and housing.