Kitsumkalum community and the Kasiks Wilderness Resort, owned and operated by Kitsumkalum Economic Development Group, have experienced an act of arson. In the early hours of April 11th, 2024, a fire caused significant damage to the Kasiks Wilderness Resort highway sign, with half of it being destroyed.
Liam Nutma the Kitsumkalum’s emergency program coordinator got a call from the Terrace Fire Department telling him that people Driving by the site around 1:15 AM., saw the arson and reported it. They tried to extinguish the fire as well as calling 9-1-1
Another incident involved the vandalism and desecration of a Kitsumkalum historical information sign at the Andesite boat launch.
Kitsumkalum has also noticed the concerning placement of misleading information signs along the Skeena River highway corridor.
Heather Bohn a Kitsumkalum resident and Resort Manager says “it appears some sort of vendetta with neighboring Kin.” she went on to say “The timing of these events coupled with the destruction of our sign at Andesite boat launch and the placement of misleading signs along the Skeena, make you question if all the events could be more than coincidence”
Despite these challenges, the Kitsumkalum community and Kasiks team remains steadfast in their mission to build a welcoming resort and foster economic tourism opportunities.
Troy Sam says “while some seek to intimidate us, we stand firm in our identity and history. Kitsumkalum has always acknowledged that we share lands with neighboring tribes, we invite dialogue with the individuals responsible in the hopes of fostering peaceful understanding and collaboration. Together we are stronger”
