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Lexéy’em: Trout Fishing with Natural Resources & Language and Culture Team

Posted on: May 8, 2025

REPORT BY TK̓WENEM7ÍPLE7 NIKKI FRASER

Our Natural Resources and Language & Culture teams came together for a trout fishing outing at Armour Creek. This day on the land was filled with traditional teachings, hands-on learning, and connecting to Secwepemcúl̓ecw. It is extremely important to continue using these areas, resources, and passing on the knowledge in order to expand use by our community. Opportunities for spring time trout fisheries is now, at multiple locations in our Territory.

In addition to harvesting trout, the team also took time to clear out parts of the creek at Tkek Yeel Stem to ensure the trout have a clear and safe path to return and spawn, as well as provide an opportunity to harvest. This restoration effort reflects our responsibility to care for the waterways and ensure healthy fish populations for future generations. Greg and Aaron shared teachings about trout habitat, sustainability, and Secwépemc protocols. Secwépemctsín language and cultural stories were woven throughout the day, bringing our traditions to life in real time.

All trout caught were carefully smoked by the Natural Resources and Language & Culture team. The smoked fish has been packaged and will be distributed to Elders at a later date – honouring the Secwépemc value of caring for and providing for our elders

We’re proud of this collaborative effort and grateful for everyone who took part. These experiences help keep our culture strong and ensure our land and water continue to teach, nourish, and sustain us for generations to come. Moments like these strengthen our connection to Secwepemcúl̓ecw, and remind us that our land is not just a resource—it is a teacher, a provider, and a relative. We are grateful to everyone who participated and made this outing possible. Continuing to centre language, culture, and land-based learning in our work is vital for the health of our people, our identity, and our future.

COUNCILLOR NIKKI FRASER

Primary Portfolios:
Natural Resources / Rights & Title / Language & Culture / Archaeology

Secondary Portfolio:
Lands, Leasing & Taxation / Sc.wén̓wen

Nikki is a grassroots member of Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc (TteS), with strong ties to both the Fraser and Paul Grassroot families. Nikki is proud mom to Trey, Aiyana, and Nipiy. She has worked for TteS in many different capacities since she was 15 years old. Nikki brings experience, knowledge and tools from her volunteer elected roles at BC Native Women’s Association, Native Women’s Association of Canada and the United Nations Youth Envoys office. Nikki is honoured to server her community & membership and continues her passion advocating and upholding TteS Rights and Title.