Overview
The STUWI(x) project, located at the confluence of the Coldwater and Nicola Rivers in Merritt, BC, is a transformative community-led initiative focused on restoring and reimagining a vital natural landscape while honoring Indigenous knowledge and stewardship.
At its core, STUWI(x) is about creating a dynamic partnership with representatives from all six valley bands and a community member from the City of Merritt to collaboratively restore the river confluence, which has been deeply impacted by colonization and urban development.
This project goes beyond simple restoration by prioritizing the integration of traditional ecological knowledge with contemporary science, ensuring that the restored area is not only resilient to future floods but also revitalizes the cultural and environmental significance of the rivers.
The plan includes acquiring properties in the floodplain, removing man-made structures, and rehabilitating the landscape to support natural processes and Indigenous land-use practices that have sustained the region for millennia.
With a focus on reconciliation and genuine collaboration, STUWI(x) empowers Indigenous voices in all phases of the project, from conceptual design to implementation.
The steering committee, composed of diverse community members, will lead the decision-making process, supported by engineers, ecologists, and knowledge holders. This approach ensures that the project reflects the aspirations and values of the local Indigenous communities while fostering an inclusive environment where all voices are heard.
The envisioned outcomes could range from creating naturalized floodplains and backchannels for salmon spawning to establishing flood-mitigation features that work harmoniously with the landscape.
Public access will be preserved, encouraging community engagement with the restored site. By weaving together Indigenous perspectives, ecological restoration, and flood management, STUWI(x) stands as a model for how communities can work together to build resilience, honour cultural heritage, and heal the land.
Engagement Participants
The southern British Columbia interior and Nicola Valley are home to Nleʔkepmx and Syilx Nations and the City of Merritt resides within their traditional, ancestral and unceded territories.
The City is committed to engaging with all interested Communities, formally and informally on the STUWI(x) Naturalization project (as of September 24, 2024).
- Coldwater Indian Band
- Cook’s Ferry Indian Band
- Lower Nicola Indian Band
- Nooaitch Indian Band
- Shackan Indian Band
- Upper Nicola Band
- City of Merritt Community Member
- Mike Simpson, MA, RPF
- Tom Willms R.P.Bio
- Charlene Joe; Flood Mitigation, Indigenous Engagement Manager
Status
Current
Funding
The City of Merritt gratefully acknowledges the B.C. Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness for its contribution to this project and for its ongoing support of the City’s Flood Mitigation Plan.
Notes
Engineering start: Community led, evolving
Construction start: October 2025
Construction end: 2027
Contact
Do you have inquiries on the Steering Committee or the STUWI(x) Project as a whole? Please click here to connect with our team.
STUWI(x) Naturalization Project Timeline
Phase 1
Property Acquisition
Approvals Processes, Implementation, Appraisals, Purchases.
2024
Phase 2
Steering Committee
Steering Committee Coordination and Kickoff, Engagement and Concept Development.
2025
Phase 3
Design and Engineering
Preliminary Archaeology and Environmental Assessments, Removal of Man Made Elements, Design, Permitting.
2026
Phase 4
Implementation
Construction and Community Celebration.
2027
Steering Committee self identified continued involvement
April
February
February
March
June
April
June
August
Associated Documents
Image Gallery
April 26th Fire Event on Naturalization Site
