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The Gwich’in Tribal Council, First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun, Yukon Government and Parks Canada say they are moving into the negotiations phase for a new national park in the Teetł’it Gwinjik or Peel River watershed.
Based on a feasibility assessment conducted earlier this year, the parties say they have concluded the creation of a new national park in the area is “practical and desirable.”
The parties said in a Wednesday news release they have signed a collaboration accord that outlines a shared vision and principles for advancing the proposed national park.
Formal negotiations will follow to “give life to the vision of joint stewardship and management, to ensure the important natural and cultural features of this area are maintained.”
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“The feasibility work we undertook together has confirmed what Gwich’in have always known: this land is special and must be protected for future generations,” stated Gwich’in Grand Chief Frederick Blake Jr.
“We look forward to working with our partners to negotiate an establishment agreement, enshrined in Indigenous-led conservation principles, that reflects our values, honours our rights, and safeguards the Peel River watershed forever.”
If established, the park will be jointly managed between the Gwich’in Tribal Council, First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun and Parks Canada. It will only be established with the full support of all parties.
The Peel River watershed is located in northeast Yukon, next to the Yukon-NWT border. The area is largely undisturbed, with few roads, limited development and no permanent residents.
“Our people have lived with and cared for Teetł’it Gwinjik since time immemorial. This area is not only rich in wildlife and pristine waters, but it is also central to our culture, spirituality, and way of life,” Blake stated.
The groups said a national park in the area could protect the ecosystem, advance Indigenous-led conservation, ensure cultural practices continue and support land-based economies.
