Our Story
¢̕ inaxaǂa - Canoe Counselling
Our Journey So Far . . .
In the beginning of 2021, the Aboriginal Education program at Kootenay River Secondary School wanted to provide a strong cultural experience for all those in the program as well as an excellent educational opportunity for those that are not of Indigenous heritage. The idea for the program also came in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic when a need to focus on mental wellness was evident within the school. While we observed the amazing valley in which we live and the rich traditional knowledge of our local Ktunaxa First Nations, we knew right away that this strong cultural experience needed to take place on the Kootenay River. Immediately we reached out to the Lower Kootenay Band and discussed how we could work together; naturally everyone was excited about the possibilities and potential. After many presentations and proposals, we were happy to welcome the support of own School District #8, the Town of Creston, RDCK, and the CBT. Everyone involved can see the huge potential that a program such as this can have. Here are some photos of our journey so far.
Location Scouting
This is the location of the Creston Valley Rowing Club. Once things are up and running, the Rowing Club will also maintain their storage space and access to the river. We are excited to be able to continue to work with them as our goals both align.
The Vision
Mr. Ki Louie points out that the mountain range in the distance, reflected in the Kootenay River, shows the traditional belief of how the shape of the canoe wasn't just inspired by the Sturgeon fish but by the shape of the mountain. We hope that one day we will have benches and information plaques that tell of the Ktunaxa history and the settler history of the Creston Valley in the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation. Having views like this makes this the perfect location for all that we are wanting to achieve.
Let's Begin
After an assessment of the site, together with the Lower Kootenay Band and School District #8, we all met to determine where the best place would to build a proper canoe storage building. Knowing that the area hadn't been maintained in a while, it was determined that a few trees would have to be removed due to damage or rotting to prevent future issues to the area and for the safety of our programs patrons.
Let's be Clear
After the concerning trees were removed the building site could be prepared. In the past, the water height had been a problem with the rowing club but only a couple of times over the years. Because of this, it was important that we chose a site for our storage building to be away from the river but also not interfering with the diking system set behind. An added bonus of having the building set back is that it doesn't become an obstruction to any available views in the area. In order to get the proper equipment and materials in the area, a temporary road also had to be installed over the dike.
A Sure Foundation
Keeping with the request of not using permanent building materials or techniques, we were happy to use large concrete blocks that could be removed from the area if needed, would be a perfect foundation for our steel building, and would be our best chance to stand up to the high water line of the Kootenay River. The building that we have chosen to put on top of our foundation is also one that can be dismantled and relocated leaving the area/nature in the best position to reclaim itself.
Many Hands Make Light Work
When word got out that there was an opportunity to help assemble the canoe shed, the shop class at KRSS were excited to volunteer; maybe just because they were able to leave the building but either way, we were excited to have them around. Together with the SD8 maintenance staff, the building was mostly assembled in a day and finished up shortly there after. After a hard days work, the crew took advantage of the Kootenay river near by and jumped in for a well deserved cooling off.
Storage Ready
With the door and lock installed, we are ready to plan out how we are going to store the canoes and other canoeing related supplies. As of right now we have room for three canoes on each side wall and two more in the middle. Maybe down the road we will be able to install a loft to allow for more storage for supplies or smaller kayaks. Even without the loft, we are excited to effectively store 10 canoes for all those in our program to use.
First Rack Installed
Our first test rack has been installed and was a huge success. We are proud to say that these racks were made by our very own KRSS students under the direction of our metal work teacher, Mr. Falck. Because of this success we have the task of installing five racks for the remaining canoes.
