shishalh Nation and SCRD Make Commitment on Water

The shishalh Nation and the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD) have entered a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on water in the Region.

The MOU details the framework to research the potential for a water reservoir on the shishalh Nation gravel lands and shows a joint commitment to address water supply in the Region.

For the first time, the MOU also sets out shared values and a vision for sustainable water supply on the Sunshine Coast. Among the shared values is the need for collaboration as we grow sustainably and through reconciliation, working together to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

“The shishalh Nation is proud to be carrying on the tradition of our ancestors as protectors of water and stewards of the land. We are excited to work alongside the SCRD on a joint goal of safe and sustainable water for everyone in the Nation’s swiya,” says lhe hiwus Lenora Joe, Chief of the shishalh Nation.

“The first shared value identified in this agreement is one of collaboration, and through the water summit meetings held in 2023 we have agreed that we are stronger and can work faster together,” says SCRD Chair Leonard Lee. “We must strive to foster a sustainable future where water is used responsibly for the benefit of both present and future generations.”

The MOU can be found linked here.

Further information on the reservoir project was provided to the SCRD Board at the November 30, 2023, Special Board Meeting. You can read the agenda here

Media contacts
Julia Cook
Communications Manager, shishalh Nation
jcook@shishalh.com
604 399 9512

Aidan Buckley
Manager, Communications and Engagement, SCRD
aidan.buckley@scrd.ca
604 885 8052