Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi ‘it celebrates improvements to important cultural and recreation site
A peaceful community recreation site, the Edwards Lake Campground in Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi ‘it attracts families, bird-watchers and campers to its pristine, shallow waters and picturesque mountain views.
The campground recently underwent major upgrades with support from Columbia Basin Trust.
“Edwards Lake is highly utilized by our membership in the summer and winter months for recreation and cultural activity,” says Nasuʔkin (Chief) Heidi Gravelle. “It’s a really important site for our people.”
Between June 2022 and June 2023, the Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi ‘it administration worked hard to facilitate the installation of a new gate entranceway, floating dock, washroom and playground equipment, along with amenities like accessible metal picnic tables, an outdoor grill, fresh beach sand, fire pits and more. This refresh has made an already appreciated space safer and more accessible for members and visitors.
“I believe the community will be happy to use equipment that is safe, and that these upgrades will make camping more enjoyable,” says Senior Housing & Infrastructure Coordinator Lori Stahl. “Having modern things in the community brings the members pride and appreciation.”
The addition of new bathroom facilities for public use has made a particularly important impact on the safety and sanitation of the site.
“Having the updated bathrooms is a great amenity that is highly appreciated by all visitors, and our membership as well,” says Gravelle. “In the past, visitors used outhouses and members used the bathrooms in their houses, which just isn’t as beneficial, sanitary and effective as having an actual on-site bathroom. This addition is also essential in ensuring that visitors only occupy the marked sites and recreation area, so that we protect areas used by animals, plants, water and all living things from disruption.”
Gravelle appreciates the overall experience of working with the Trust on this project.
“The Trust has such a high regard for our cultural values and the importance of not only our specific sites, but also the initiatives that enhance the quality of life for First Nations,” she says. “They’re very easy to work with, but they also understand and see the bigger picture. When we reach out to them for partnerships or assistance for our initiatives that have a strong cultural-value component, they really respect and magnify that in regard to their accessibility and delivery of assistance.”
A self-governing community dedicated to improving the health, safety, education and financial security of its members, Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi ‘it is looking forward to enjoying the refreshed amenities this upcoming summer and potentially increasing revenue by attracting more visitors.
