Guardian and Watchmen programs
The Indigenous Guardians program supports Indigenous land management and stewardship in their territories based on a cultural responsibility for the land.
The program provides training and career opportunities for Indigenous Peoples to work as equal partners with governments and industry on the protection and management of land and resources.
Haida Gwaii Watchmen
Three human figures wearing high hats are often carved at the very top of Haida poles. These Haida watchmen once stood sentinel over the village. The symbol of the three carved watchmen was adopted by the Haida for the Haida Gwaii Watchmen Program at Gwaii Haanas.
The Watchmen offer a first-hand introduction to Haida culture. They are Haida men and women of all ages who share their knowledge of the land and the sea, as well as stories, songs, and traditional foods.
For many visitors, meeting the Watchmen is the most memorable part of a trip to Haida village sites.
West Coast Trail Guardians and Broken Group Islands Beach Keepers
As the traditional guardians of the lands and waters, Huu-ay-aht, Ditidaht, and Pacheedaht Guardians work with Parks Canada to care for the trails and protect the land and visiting hikers. An encounter with a West Coast Trail Guardian might include a story told by the fire, a song, or a simple exchange between hikers and Guardians that will create a memory to last a lifetime.
Broken Group Islands Beach Keepers
The Broken Group Islands are made up of over 100 islands, islets and scattered rocky outcrops, surrounding the Reserves and traditional territories of the Tseshaht First Nation and Hupacasath First Nation. Toquaht Nation and Uchucklesaht Tribe also have treaty rights within the park.
The Broken Group Islands are rich in human, natural, and cultural history as well as resources. Parks Canada works closely with the Tseshaht First Nation to care for this place and share its significance with visitors. Beach Keepers, who welcome visitors and provide advice and safety information, continue a legacy borne out of ancient protocol.
Guardian Program
Inspired by other Guardian and Watchmen programs at cooperatively managed places, Parks Canada worked with the Franklin Interim Advisory Committee to develop a Guardians Program for the wrecks of HMS Erebus and HMS Terror, which began in 2017.
Each summer, community members from Gjoa Haven undertake their duties at Guardian camp locations near both wreck sites.
The Guardians program involves Inuit in the protection and monitoring of the wreck sites and contributes to further integrating Inuit knowledge into site operations. When possible, the Guardians work closely with Parks Canada’s Underwater Archaeology Team during their work each summer.
Eventually, the Guardians will play a key role in hosting visitors to the wreck sites – sharing knowledge and Inuit culture and presenting the Franklin story as well as monitoring the two wreck sites.
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