Treaty Negotiations Update

Canadian and American negotiators met in ?aq’am, near Cranbrook, B.C., on Sept. 10 and 11, 2019, for the eighth round of discussions about the future of the Columbia River Treaty.

During the meetings, Canadian Indigenous Nations observers from the Ktunaxa, Secwepemc and Syilx/Okanagan Nations made two presentations on behalf of Canada, drawn from their ongoing study of ecosystems in the Canadian Columbia Basin that are affected by the Treaty, and the work they are leading to assess the feasibility of reintroducing salmon to the upper Columbia River.

The U.S. negotiators were joined at this round by advisors from U.S. Tribes, who provided their expertise regarding ecosystem work undertaken in the Basin, including transboundary efforts.

Katrine Conroy, B.C.’s Minister Responsible for the Columbia River Treaty, said, “The approach being taken by negotiators shows just how far we have come since the Treaty was drafted more than half a century ago.  The presence and involvement of Canadian Indigenous Nations and the U.S. Tribes means voices and perspectives that were shut out over 50 years ago are now being heard and are helping to shape the Treaty’s future.”

Ktunaxa Nation Council Chair Kathryn Teneese said, “The Ktunaxa Nation Council was very pleased to host the Canadian and U.S. Columbia River Treaty delegations in ?aq'am at our St. Eugene Mission.  I have been encouraged to learn that the Indigenous-led discussions on ecosystem function and salmon restoration were positive and productive.”

Building on previous meetings, negotiators discussed issues not only related to ecosystems, but covered flood risk management and hydro power as well.

The ninth round of negotiations will take place March 11 and 12, 2020 in Washington D.C.