Guide to Powwow Country: Churn Creek Protected Area - BC

CHURN CREEK PROTECTED AREA
Near Williams Lake, BC

Step back into the times of our forefathers at the Churn Creek Protected Area where impressions from pithouses can still be found. Located about two hours’ drive from  Williams Lake in central British Columbia, it was the traditional home of various bands of Shuswap and Chilcotin First Nations people for thousands of years. For centuries First Peoples hunted and fished in the area during the warmer months of the year, preserving food for the long winter months when they would gather in permanent pithouse villages until spring returned. Stone and bone artifacts are in evidence and show that villages were occupied for more than 2,000 years, leaving behind tools and carved stones as evidence. Oral traditions exist among the First Nations still living in the area that reflects their presence as well. Recently, the Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation repatriated from a museum in Vancouver an ancient rock which had been relocated in 1926 to Stanley Park, resplendent with petroglyphs significant to the history of the area. Weighing nearly six tonnes, the rock had been unprotected and subject to vandalism before making its way home again to be protected at Churn Creek. Fortunately, photos taken before its removal along the Fraser River were available to ensure the rock was placed in its exact spot where it had rested for centuries.  The Churn Creek Protected Area comprises over 36,000 hectares of a unique ecosystem including forests and grasslands. Mule deer and bighorn sheep are among the numerous wildlife populations which are sheltered there. Several First Nations communities have been involved in fighting the infestation of the pine beetle in recent years and they are actively promoting responsible tourism and employment opportunities in the area. Horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking and nature appreciation are allowed by visitors with restrictions in place to protect the ecosystem. A Friends of Churn Society exists that furthers the protection of the area.