Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it First Nation is urging hunters, residents, and visitors to respect wildlife and practise responsible harvesting throughout the Elk Valley, which forms part of the Nation’s traditional territory. Following several concerning wildlife discoveries, the Nation is calling for compliance with hunting regulations and prompt reporting of suspected poaching across the East Kootenays, particularly around the Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it First Nation reserve lands.
Most recently, the remains of eight elk and one mule deer were disposed of on Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it reserve lands. Nasuʔkin Heidi Gravelle stated “these acts of violence against animals also harm the spirit of our connection to the lands and wildlife— ʔa·kxam̓is q̓api qapsin. This behaviour is unacceptable. Beyond concerns under colonial criminal and wildlife laws, these acts violate our integral cultural Ktunaxa Laws, ʔAknumuȼtiⱡiⱡ.
We will work with our ʔa·knusti, the RCMP, and Conservation Officers to pursue accountability and prevent further incidents. Members are asked to remain vigilant, report concerns, and prioritize their safety by avoiding confrontation”.
These offences are illegal, and raise serious concerns about unlawful harvesting, wildlife waste, and improper disposal. Suspected offences require investigation by the appropriate authorities.
“Wildlife is central to Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it’s culture, food security, and stewardship responsibilities,” said Nasuʔkin Gravelle. “The Nation calls on all hunters to follow applicable laws and harvesting protocols, obtain required licences and permissions, respect access restrictions, and retrieve and appropriately use harvested animals.”
It is important to note that hunting is not permitted on Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it reserve lands for anyone except Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it Nation Members, or unless otherwise permitted.
Chronic Wasting Disease Testing
Hunters must also meet applicable chronic wasting disease (CWD) testing requirements. Hunters harvesting deer, elk, or moose under a provincial species licence in Management Units 4-1 to 4-8 and 4-20 to 4-25 must submit the required samples to a designated drop-off location within one week of harvest and before leaving the CWD Management Zone. Testing is free. CWD sampling is also a condition of permits issued by Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it to Indigenous hunters.
Report Suspected Violations
Report suspected poaching or wildlife waste to the B.C. Conservation Officer Service’s 24-hour Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line at 1-877-952-7277. Concerns should also be shared with Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it Lands and Resources at 250-887-3461.
Protecting wildlife is a shared responsibility. Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it asks everyone to help safeguard the land and wildlife for future generations.
