Concerned about the increasing pressures of shoreline development and climate change on Nicola Lake, the Upper Nicola Band (UNB) and Living Lakes Canada (LLC) embarked on a collaborative initiative. This partnership, guided by the “Two-Eyed Seeing” approach, aims to improve foreshore management by integrating Indigenous knowledge (IK) and Western science through the Local Indigenous Knowledge and Values Framework.

Nicola Lake: A Vital Ecosystem

Nicola Lake is a haven for recreation, boasting over 20 fish species. It serves as a crucial water source and holds immense cultural significance for the Syilx and Nlaka’pamux people, with historical sites dotted along its shores.

Integrating Indigenous Knowledge

The Local Indigenous Knowledge and Values Framework integrates IK into the Foreshore Integrated Management Planning (FIMP) process, a federally developed cumulative impact assessment tool for freshwater conservation. This framework utilizes the Sylix Okanagan Nation’s captíkwł (oral stories) of the Four Food Chiefs to guide the Nicola Lake FIMP.

Nicola Lake FIMP Re-survey

In 2011, the initial FIMP survey of Nicola Lake was conducted. In 2023, a re-survey was undertaken, guided by the Indigenous Knowledge and Values Framework. This re-survey, conducted by boat and drone, documented changes to the lake’s shoreline over the 12-year period. Concurrently, the UNB conducted a comprehensive Cultural Overview Assessment involving a desktop review of historical data, in-depth interviews with community members, and field trips to identify significant cultural sites.

Cultural Significance

The assessment highlighted the deep cultural, spiritual, and ecological significance of Nicola Lake to the Syilx people. It revealed that nearly half (46%) of the shoreline boasts “High” ecological value, and over a quarter (4.8%) is designated as “Very High”. In addition, 19 Culturally Sensitive Areas (CSAs) were identified along the shoreline.

Nicola Lake Foreshore Development Guidelines

The project’s outcome, the Nicola Lake Foreshore Development Guidelines report, provides science-based recommendations for protecting sensitive habitats. Areas with High or Very High ecological values, or CSAs, should be prioritized for conservation. These areas carry significant spiritual and ceremonial value for the Syilx people and disturbance would violate their traditional laws.

Collaborative Benefits

The Nicola Lake Foreshore Development Guidelines offer valuable insights for government agencies, First Nations, environmental groups, and property owners alike.

Explore Further

• Upper Nicola Band Stewardship Department
• The combined 2023 Nicola Lake FIMP and cultural assessments, including reports and maps, on the Columbia Basin Water Hub
• Local Indigenous Knowledge and Values Framework Overview
• Learn more about the FIMP program and explore findings for other lakes at Living Lakes Canada