Tŝilhqot’in and Williams Lake First Nations Disagree Over Whose Territory Farwell Canyon is Part of

Two Interior First Nations are at odds over whose traditional territory includes the area which has become known as Farwell Canyon.

Located along the Chilcotin River, west of the Fraser River, the site rests in an area where both the Secwépemc and Tŝilhqot’in claim jurisdiction.

Last week, the Williams Lake First Nation announced their intent to conduct a land planning exercise at the site.

In the release, the Nation calls the area a critical piece of Northern Secwépemc territory, with well-established historical connections.

But, the Tŝilhqot’in Nation says the area, known by them as Nagwentled, is on the territory of the Tl’esqox, one of the six Tŝilhqot’in communities.

They say they oppose archaeological work or other disturbances without their consent, and will be reaffirming their territory with BC and Canada.