Grizzlies are keepers of the land
H’aiagal’ath Grizzly Bear Tours Adheres to the Principles of Ecotourism and is Science-based
H’aiagal’ath is deeply concerned about biocultural diversity loss and carefully created his business following ecotourism principles. The International Ecotourism Society (2015) defines ecotourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education.”
To minimize impacts on bears, H’aiagal’ath has established strict protocols for operation. Road construction in sensitive areas is not permitted. Refugia and critical grizzly bear habitat are identified and conserved. All construction and use of the area are deemed bear friendly by H’aiagal’ath Grizzly Bear Tours biologist, Dr. Ciarniello, whose monitoring research ensures short and long-term impacts are recorded, and subsequent changes are implemented where necessary to protect the bears.
Dr. Lana Ciarniello in the field with Alex Chartrand, Jr.
Ecotourism Principles Adopted by H’aiagal’ath Grizzly Bear Tours
Minimize impact on wildlife and habitat
Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect
Provide positive experiences for visitors and hosts
Deliver memorable interpretative experiences to visitors
Design, construct and operate low-impact facilities
Recognize the rights and spiritual beliefs of the W’ui’kinuxv
An Indigenous Model of Ecotourism Promoting Conservation and UNDRIP
As a citizen of W’ui’kinuxv, H’aiagal’ath has instilled in his business a deep respect for W’ui’kinuxv protocols. He provides employment opportunities for W’ui’kinuxv youth and he is supporting the return of W’ui’kinuxv citizens to the core community on the Waanukv (River). H’aiagal’ath Grizzly Bear Tours directly responds to W’ui’kinuxv goals as described in Conservancy planning by increasing economic opportunities for W’ui’kinuxv citizens through sustainable ecological tourism. In addition, by operating H’aiagal’ath Grizzly Bear Tours, H’aiagal’ath is implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). In 2019, legislation was passed by the BC legislature for UNDRIP to be implemented into provincial law. H’aiagal’ath raises his hands to the valuable conservation and stewardship of W’ui’kinuxv Nation, including the guardian watchmen and salmon hatchery programs. We look forward to working with the Nation to advance initiatives for the benefit of the W’ui’kinuxv and our Territory.
