DALTON POST, YUKON, July 14, 2005 -- On behalf of the Honourable Stéphane Dion, Minister of Environment, the Honourable Larry Bagnell, Member of Parliament for Yukon and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Natural Resources, joined by the Honourable Peter Jenkins, provincial Minister of Environment, and Chief James Allen of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations, today unveiled a plaque to commemorate the national significance of the Tatshenshini River. The ceremony brought together government representatives, stakeholders and the local community to celebrate the Tatshenshini River and its outstanding natural, cultural and recreational values.
"Canada's heritage rivers - like the Tatshenshini - are powerful national symbols that strengthen our identity as Canadians," said Minister Dion. "With its history, its rugged canyons, lakes, valleys and alpine tundra, the many species of wildlife it supports, and its importance to Aboriginal communities, this river is truly special. It is a place of beauty and wonder that we are committed to protecting both today and for future generations."
"The national designation and the dedication ceremony recognize the important historical and cultural value this river has been to the story of the Yukon, northern British Columbia, and Alaska over many centuries," said Minister Jenkins. "The river's new national status will help all visitors to the area appreciate the river's heritage value for many years to come."
The Tatshenshini River, known as Shäwshe Chú in the Southern Tutchone language, begins in northwestern British Columbia and flows nearly 200 kilometres through the traditional territory of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations into the Gulf of Alaska. It was designated a Canadian Heritage River in 2004.
One of Canada's most significant ecological areas, the Tatshenshini River watershed provides vital habitat for more than 50 species of mammals, including Yukon's densest population of grizzly bears. It is also an important waterfowl migration route, whose rich habitat supports more than 40 species of birds, and provides critical spawning areas for salmon.
"The Champagne and Aishihik First Nations, the local community and the Government of Yukon have all worked hard to make today's celebration possible, and to see the Tatshenshini become a cherished member of the Canadian Heritage Rivers System," said Mr. Bagnell. "Together with the federal government, they are acting proactively to protect this unique river for Yukoners and all Canadians to experience and enjoy."
The Canadian Heritage Rivers System is Canada's national river conservation program. Through the program, federal, provincial and local governments work cooperatively with stakeholders and local communities to promote, protect and enhance Canada's river heritage, and ensure that its leading rivers are managed in a sustainable manner. The system was established in 1984 by the federal, provincial and territorial governments to conserve and protect the best examples of Canada's river heritage, to give them national recognition, and to encourage the public to enjoy and appreciate them.
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Information:
Brigitte Caron
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of the Environment
(819) 997-1441
Hillarie Zimmermann
Communications Manager
Yukon Field Unit
Parks Canada
(867) 667-3921
Dennis Senger
Communications Coordinator
Government of Yukon, Department of Environment
(867)667-5237
Paula Banks
Champagne and Aishihik First Nations
(867)668-2292
Backgrounder associated with this News Release.
The Tatshenshini River
