Reviving Traditional Fishing Weirs and Reestablishing Sovereignty
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“It’s really about demonstrating that we can renew our relationship with the Semá:th, the river and the waterways, but also with the fish.”
— Murray Ned, Executive Director, Lower Fraser Fisheries Alliance and Nation Member, Semá:th (Sumas First Nation)
Bringing Indigenous Knowledge and Modern Science Together for Responsible Management of Salmon
On the banks of the Chilliwack River in British Columbia, salmon are far more than a food source — they’re a sacred part of culture, identity, and Indigenous sovereignty. In this film, members of the Semá:th community explain how a centuries-old practice, the fish weir, is being revitalized through a modern pilot program gathering data on responsible fish harvesting.
First Nations used this traditional practice to selectively and responsibly harvest fish before colonial policies were brought in which restricted their use. Now, in a groundbreaking pilot, the Semá:th are working to bring their ancestral practices back to life. This trap box and weir system allows fishers to selectively harvest only what’s needed, while allowing the remaining salmon to continue their journey upstream. Using underwater cameras and real-time monitoring the program isn’t just about restoring fish populations. It’s also about restoring sovereignty, stewardship, and relationships with the land and water.
This film is a powerful reminder that salmon recovery must include Indigenous voices and leadership. By harmonizing ancestral teachings with present-day science, the Semá:th community is charting a new path forward—one that honors the past and protects the future.
About Semá:th (Sumas First Nation)
The Semá:th people are known as the fierce wolf people and are part of the larger Stó:lo Natiōn.
