Stories

When it comes to generating program funds, it helps to be creative.

Some Indigenous communities are developing permit systems that ask tourists or other resource users in the territory to pay a fee that directly contributes to funding Guardian programs.

There is no shortage of work to be done by Guardian Watchmen monitoring and protecting territories on northern Vancouver Island. As a result, finding adequate funds for staff, boat fuel and field equipment can be challenging.  

NOTICE: The Indigenous Guardian Community Visit fund is currently on hold

Going on an exchange to learn about another community’s Indigenous Guardian Program is a great way to get inspired and share knowledge.  

“Having all of the benefits and activities of our Coastal Guardian programs written down in this report is so helpful because it provides a framework as our Guardian program continues to evolve and grow.  I can also use the findings in this report as ‘evidence’ when talking with government, industry and funders about the importance of our Guardian programs.” Ross Wilson, former Metlakatla

When community members decided to focus monitoring efforts on regional issues important to them, instead of those of outside agencies, they were able to establish a successful monitoring program among coastal First Nations in BC.

You could say that a map is worth a thousand words when you see the records produced by the Kitasoo/Xai’Xais Stewardship Office.

The Regional Monitoring System was first introduced to coastal Guardian Watchmen at their annual gathering. Everyone was issued a yellow plastic binder with Rite in the Rain paper field cards for collecting data while out on patrol.