Pacheedaht First Nation leaders and multiple levels of government will come together June 21 to celebrate national Aboriginal Day and mark the purchase of Jordan River area land.
B.C. Hydro sold 28 hectares of land at Jordan River to the Pacheedaht.
The future of Jordan River has been up for debate since B.C. Hydro announced more than three years ago a major earthquake would destroy its dam and wipe out homes below.
The sale agreement restricts land use to “no permanent overnight housing,” but does allow for other development.
READ MORE: Public hearing set for Jordan River land
The Pacheedaht have plans for the area which include surf sites, traditional Nuu-chah-nulth canoe rentals, an interpretive centre and restaurants featuring a Pacheedaht salmon bake.
Jordan River is the origin site of the Pacheedaht – also known as diitiida – and archaeological digs have identified two historic villages near the river’s mouth.
The Aboriginal Day festivities, which run from 10: 30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Queesto Forestry Office, features the land title celebration, Pacheedaht culture, tours, traditional songs and pit cooking.
National Aboriginal Day began in 1996 and celebrates the unique heritage, diverse cultures, and achievements of the nation’s Aboriginal peoples. There are three Aboriginal groups in Canada – the First Nations, Inuit and Métis.