STUWI(x) Naturalization Project

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
• sxéxn̓x 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