CITXW NLAKA’PAMUX ASSEMBLY ANNOUNCES PURCHASE OF WILDLING’S RESORT AT SURREY LAKE, LOCATED WITHIN THE nłeʔképmx TRADITIONAL TERRITORY
Resort release photos by Communications
nłeʔképmx Territory – The Citxw Nlaka'pamux Assembly (CNA) is proud to announce its acquisition of Wildling's Resort at Surrey Lake, a landmark achievement that marks a significant milestone in the revitalization of nłeʔképmx culture and the stewardship of traditional lands. Situated in the heart of the traditional territory of the nłeʔképmx, the resort’s serene landscape offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and honour the rich heritage of nłeʔképmx.
The resort, renowned for its inviting cabins and tranquil atmosphere, provides a unique way to experience the natural beauty and cultural significance of Surrey Lake. For nłeʔképmx, this area is more than a recreational destination—it is a vital part of our cultural identity, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and exploring the land that holds deep historical and spiritual value.
Chief Fred Sampson, Vice-Chair of the CNA Board and Chief of Siska Indian Band, emphasized the importance of this acquisition: “The purchase of Wildling's Resort is a historic moment for our people. It offers not only economic opportunities for all eight bands within the CNA but also a chance to strengthen our cultural ties. This initiative allows us to bring our values of respect and stewardship into practice, ensuring that the land is managed in a way that reflects our traditions and serves our community for generations to come.”
Chief Lee Spahan, Director on the CNA Board and Chief of Coldwater Indian Band, commented on the environmental and cultural impact of the purchase: “This acquisition is a testament to our commitment to land stewardship. By taking ownership of the resort, we can ensure that our traditional values and sustainable practices guide its operation. This is an opportunity to model how we can harmoniously live with and care for our land, setting an example for future generations.”
Chief Marcel Shackelly, Director on the CNA Board and Chief of Nooaitch Indian Band highlighted the potential of the resort as a communal space: “Wildling's Resort will serve as a gathering place for all nłeʔképmx. It’s not just a location for recreation but a place where we can come together to celebrate our culture, share knowledge, and strengthen our community bonds. This acquisition opens doors for our members to engage deeply with their heritage and connect with each other in meaningful ways.”
Virginia Aspinall, nłeʔképmx Programs Manager, and Madelynn Albert, nłeʔkepmxcín Manager, shared their vision for the resort: “The resort will be a vital space for cultural connection, offering a venue for language camps, hunting and fishing programs, and other activities that honor our traditions. It will provide a meaningful way for visitors to engage with tmixʷ (the land), enriching their understanding of our cultural heritage and strengthening our community ties.”
Chief Christine Walkem, Chair of the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly Board of Directors stated: “Acquiring such space as the Wildling’s Resort at Surrey Lake, strengthens our ability to achieve our goal of cultural reconnection through land-based teachings in an environment conducive to nłeʔképmx educational methods that have been handed down since time immemorial. There is no comparison to an on the land learning environment.”
Nicole Johnny, Executive Director of the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly added: “The acquisition of Wildling's Resort is a profound gesture of cultural revitalization and land stewardship. It allows nłeʔképmx to directly manage and influence how the land and resort are utilized, integrating traditional values and sustainable practices into every aspect of its operation. We are beyond proud of this initiative, which promises to enhance cultural education, foster a deeper connection to the land, and preserve natural resources for future generations.”
We look forward to maximizing the use of the property for the benefit of Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly and our membership. Stay tuned as we work on exciting opportunities into the near future.
About the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly – The Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly (CNA) is a not-for-profit organization that was formed in 2013 to manage and administer the agreements relating to Teck Highland Valley Copper Mine (HVC) on behalf of Ashcroft Indian Band, Boston Bar First Nation, Coldwater Indian Band, Cook’s Ferry Indian Band, Nicomen Indian Band, Nooaitch Indian Band, Shackan Indian Band and Siska Indian Band (the Participating Bands). CNA work is rooted in hundreds of years of history and a legacy of protecting the nłeʔképmx people and our culture, values, and territory. Headquartered in Merritt, B.C., the CNA provides training and job readiness along with cultural, social, and technical programming to the over 2780 members of the eight Participating Bands.
Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly
Marius Auer, Communications Lead
250-378-1864
communications@cna-trust.ca
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