The SȾÁUTW̱ (Tsawout) First Nation has announced plans for its reserve lands in WENÁ,NEĆ, also known as Fulford Bay, including a campground project, initially, with work scheduled to begin this month.
According to a press release issued by the SȾÁUTW̱ First Nation, a second phase will create a cultural space rooted in SȾÁUTW̱ teachings and traditions, inspired by the significance and form of a traditional longhouse, reflecting the cultural heart of the site.
“This project is more than a return to place; it reflects the teachings our people have always carried — to care for the land, to lift one another up, and to build with future generations in mind,” said Chief Abraham Pelkey. “The campground will help us steward this place in a good way, create opportunities for our members to gather along this shoreline and welcome others in a manner that reflects who we are as SȾÁUTW̱ people. For our Elders who have carried this vision for so long, and for the young people who will one day carry it forward, this is a meaningful step for our nation.”
Sixty campsites will be nestled in the upper forested area, with on-site management in place during camping season. Campfires will not be permitted.
“Work on the reserve will begin in June with minimally invasive campsites designed to honour the land and protect its ecosystems,” states the release. “Campsites will have access to water and, in some cases, power extended from the adjacent beach property. That property, known as Lot A, was purchased with funds raised by the Salt Spring community in 2025 as its first land back initiative, with support from the Salt Spring Island Foundation — an example of meaningful partnership in support of SȾÁUTW̱ priorities.”
“The foundation team is delighted to learn of the vision and activities led by the SȾÁUTW̱ on their land in WENÁ,NEĆ,” said foundation executive director Shannon Cowan. “We raise our hands to the entire Salt Spring Island community for such strong and enduring allyship in support of land back initiatives, and in support of SȾÁUTW̱ people and their traditional knowledge and culture. The renewed SȾÁUTW̱ presence, ecologically sensible approach and social enterprise are all meaningful steps in an ongoing process of reconciliation.”
“Our thanks to the SȾÁUTW̱ First Nation who have generously allowed our community free access to this incredible natural oasis for generations,” said Salt Spring’s Capital Regional District (CRD) director Gary Holman. “The return of the SȾÁUTW̱ to their precious lands, while still sharing those lands with hikers and campers, is an act of reconciliation that will continue to benefit us all.”
The SȾÁUTW̱ release explains that once construction is completed, the reserve will remain accessible to those arriving by bike or on foot, with new access also available by boat.
“The project is designed to encourage low-impact visitation, reduce vehicular traffic and support respectful shared use of the area. Parking for the project, as well as for day visitors, will be located on the reserve as part of a broader approach to minimizing impacts on neighbouring properties.”
Keefer Ecological Services has been engaged to help reduce environmental impacts and support careful site stewardship. The project will also include interpretive signage to share information about the unique ecological features of the reserve and deepen public understanding of the land.
“We are honoured to witness the return of the SȾÁUTW̱ First Nation to Salt Spring for the first time in generations, and we congratulate them on this significant undertaking and reaffirmation of enduring connection to the land, waters, culture and community,” said Trust Council chair Laura Patrick. “We look forward to their continued stewardship and leadership in preserving and protecting these lands and waters for future generations.”
Project plans were shared by Jon Cooksey and Pam Tarr, on behalf of the SȾÁUTW̱ First Nation, with neighbours at a meeting held May 17. Since then, several area residents have written letters to MLA Rob Botterell, Capital Regional District (CRD) director Gary Holman, Salt Spring Fire Chief Jamie Holmes and other government representatives. While general support for the project and fire safety plans is expressed in the letters, the anticipated level of traffic and the impact of construction and ongoing traffic increases on culverts in “damaged or compromised condition” remain concerns. Neighbours have requested assessments be done and meetings with affected parties be convened by the Ministry of Transportation and Transit and the CRD.
An informational webpage about the project has been created and will be updated as work progresses over the summer at stautw.ca/renewing-community-presence-in-wenanec/.