Huu-ay-aht First Nations Shares Vision for Nation-Led Tourism Initiatives

Posted on by kiaralc

Huu-ay-aht First Nations (HFN) is advancing two key tourism projects that will help shape how our ḥaḥuułi (traditional territories) are experienced, promoted, and supported over the long term. Together, these initiatives are focused on creating a strong, Nation-led tourism economy that reflects Huu-ay-aht values while generating sustainable opportunities for citizens.

Establishing Regional Management and Reinvestment

As part of this vision, Huu-ay-aht is working toward establishing what could become Canada’s first Indigenous-led Destination Management Organization (DMO). This initiative focuses on developing a coordinated approach to managing and promoting tourism across Huu-ay-aht territory. By establishing a clear identity and “sense of place” for the region, the DMO aims to ensure that local tourism directly reflects the Nation’s culture, priorities, and long-term vision.

Alongside the development of the DMO, Huu-ay-aht is exploring the implementation of the Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT). If approved, the MRDT would generate dedicated revenue to be reinvested directly into community-identified tourism initiatives. Potential improvements include enhanced signage across the territory, trail development and maintenance, targeted marketing for regional tourism experiences, and public infrastructure such as washrooms and visitor amenities.

This project is not just about attracting visitors; it is about ensuring that tourism is well-managed and community-driven, and that it benefits all residents of the Huu-ay-aht territory.

Preparing for the Cultural & Visitor Information Centre

In parallel, preparations are underway for the opening of the Cultural & Visitor Information Centre, anticipated in 2026. This facility will serve as a central hub for visitors to learn about Huu-ay-aht history, culture, and territory. Current planning focuses on designing the overall visitor experience, developing day-to-day operations, and creating structural opportunities for Huu-ay-aht artists and entrepreneurs to participate through retail space and cultural programming.

Once operational, the Cultural & Visitor Information Centre will play an important role in welcoming visitors in meaningful ways, creating local employment, and supporting cultural sharing.

Pachena Bay Beach & River in Anacla, BC.

Cultivating Food Security: Huu-ay-aht First Nations Launches Vertical Farming Pilot in Anacla

Posted on by kiaralc

Huu-ay-aht First Nations (HFN) is preparing to welcome a new Vertical Hydroponic Farming unit to Anacla, with delivery expected in mid-May. Led by HFN’s Economic Development team in strategic partnership with Simon Fraser University (SFU), the project represents a major step toward local food sovereignty. This initiative was made possible by securing close to $700,000 in funding from several key partners, including Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), Island Coast Economic Trust (ICET), BC Hydro, and the BC Government.

The project utilizes specialized technology from Growcer, a leader in modular farming, which is providing the unit along with the essential training and technology transfer required for success. Once operational, the Growcer unit will enable the year-round local growth of fresh produce, such as leafy greens and vegetables. This is a vital resource for the community, where access to fresh, affordable food is often limited by distance and transportation challenges.

Currently, work is underway in Anacla to prepare the site and ensure the necessary systems are in place before installation. Simultaneously, SFU is supporting Huu-ay-aht in developing a business plan, training materials, food safety protocols, and hiring processes to get the project up and running. Launched as a pilot, this initiative serves as a social blueprint for the future, allowing HFN to test operations and explore how the project can evolve into a long-term social enterprise that creates local jobs and ensures lasting food security for Huu-ay-aht citizens.

Inside a hydroponic vertical farming unit (Photo provided by Growcer).

For more information:

December Uyaqḥmis (Page 2)

Knowledge Gathering Workshop

Posted on by Huu-ay-aht Communications


Huu-ay-aht is currently undertaking community research to understand the significance of the Old Village Site, Kiix̣in, historically and in the present context as perceived by the community, to develop a collective vision for the future growth potential of Kiix̣in and its surrounding areas. This project is funded by the First Peoples’ Cultural Council’s (FPCC), Sense of Place Grant. 

We would like to hear from the community and understand the significance of the Village Site in the present context and the cultural relationships of Huu-ay-aht people to the Village Site. This will be explored in the first half of the session. The second half of the session will examine the potential for the Kiix̣in Village Site and the neighbouring areas for future growth and examine what that growth looks like. 

The engagement Workshop will be held in person in Bamfield. This will be a limited-person engagement seeking 3 Elders, 3 Youths and 3 Adults to include diverse voices and varied perspectives. Enrollment in the Workshop will be required to secure a spot. Honorariums will be provided to the Workshop participants for their valuable time and feedback. 

Details about the Workshop are mentioned below.

When – Thursday, May 11, 2023, from 9 am to 12 pm (Lunch will be provided).

Where – Bamfield B.C., The Market

Please call 250-723-0100 Ext 106 or email cheryl.e@huuayaht.org to secure your spot for the Knowledge Gathering Workshop for the Sense of Place Grant Project. 

We thank you for your time and support!

Negotiation team continues to update Huu-ay-aht leadership

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Ḥaw̓iiḥ and Executive Council gathered at the House of Huu-ay-aht in Anacla July 20, 21 for an update on negotiations with Steelhead LNG.

The Nation is open to exploring economic development opportunities that align with its goals and principals and continue to work toward developing a process that creates mutually beneficial working relationships. Huu-ay-aht appreciates the citizens who also came out to learn about the negotiations.

While the meetings were not open to the public and citizens, we look forward to seeing everyone again at our next Community Engagement Sessions, which will be held in September. These upcoming engagement sessions will provide an opportunity for open and transparent dialogue between our citizens and government about what we are doing. Ask and we will answer.

PLEASE REMEMBER: If you have questions at any time, you can ask us and the government will respond. Send your comments or questions to communications@huuayaht.org or call 250-723-0100.

Investment in Bamfield by Huu-ay-aht appreciated by residents

Posted on by heathersthomson

In late January, the Nation purchased 11 properties in the Bamfield area. It took a lot of hard work to close the sale and even more to get the turnkey operations open and ready to accept visitors.

On April 23, 2016, Huu-ay-aht First Nations invited its citizens, dignitaries, and residents of Bamfield to join them in a celebration to mark this accomplishment.

The event exceeded all expectations, filling the Rix Centre for Ocean Discoveries for the luncheon and a large crowd gathered at The Hotel for singing, dancing, and a ribbon cutting. It was a chance for Huu-ay-aht to thank everyone involved in making it happen and welcome the community. It was also an opportunity for people in attendance to hear Huu-ay-aht’s vision for the future.

Following this successful event, Tayii Ḥaw̓ił ƛiišin (Derek Peters) and Elected Chief Councillor Robert J. Dennis Sr. received the following letter and a photo collage from the day. He wanted to share it with the community.

The letter follows:

Gentlemen,

I have been meaning to congratulate you both on your ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 23.

Bamfield needed a fresh start and you have been doing a wonderful job of being that catalyst and including the whole community in your plans.

Growing up in Bamfield in the 1950s and early 60s, I have watched the gradual decline of our community – first with the commercial fishing demise and then the stagnation of so much of the commercial property.

I feel a hope for Bamfield again, which I have not had for some time. 

Best regards and the best of luck on your venture,

Marc Phillips