Columbia River Treaty: Stay on track, even if it’s a fast track

November 18: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ʔakisk̓aqǂiʔit (Cranbrook, B.C.):

The Ktunaxa Nation is steadfast in its commitment to ensuring Ktunaxa rights and interests are recognized and protected in the still-to-be finalized Columbia River Treaty.

There have been recent reports that Canada and the United States might fast-track negotiations to conclude an updated treaty by January 2025.

In light of these reports, Ktunaxa Nation Chair Kathryn Teneese emphasized the importance of keeping things on track.

“The Agreement in Principle announced this past summer represents a monumental accomplishment for all negotiating parties in this treaty. It was achieved with significant input from Ktunaxa, and it is vital that any rush to finalize the treaty does not compromise parts of the AIP that address our rights and interests, and that incorporate Indigenous cultural values and ecosystem health.”

The Ktunaxa Nation recognizes the critical importance of reliable power and protecting downstream communities in Canada and the US from flooding but underscores the necessity of reconciling historical and ongoing impacts of the treaty.

“Our negotiations with Canada and British Columbia have been focused on addressing these impacts,” said Chair Teneese. “We expect our rights and interests to be negotiated in both the updated treaty and domestic agreements to ensure the long-term well-being of our people and territory. The two processes must move forward together.”

During the 2024 Columbia River Governance and Ethics Symposium, Ktunaxa representative Troy Hunter reflected on the potential return of salmon to the Columbia River as part of renewed treaty discussions. “Hearing that salmon restoration is being addressed makes my heart happy,” said Hunter. “It has been 86 years since the Ktunaxa have been able to harvest salmon in our territory, and their return is vital for both our culture and ecology.”

“The Ktunaxa Nation will continue to work collaboratively with Canada and British Columbia to ensure that our voices are central to these processes,” Teneese said.

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Ktunaxa Nation Press Release: CRT Agreement in Principle, more information available

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news@ktunaxa.org