I have a fascination with the Kootenays and a curiosity in the kind of Indigenous culture that in this area of BC. It was surprising to learn that the Kootenay region only has 6 Indigenous Communities within in (unlike the lower mainland region which had like 20). The Kootenay region is quite small with beautiful mountain ranges, rivers, and more plains to the south east.

 

FN Population: 1,381

Total Population : 146,300

Population % First Nation : 0.94%

The pristine rivers, lakes, waterfalls, beaches, mineral hot springs, alpine meadows and snow-capped mountains of the Kootenay region are primarily the traditional territory of the Ktunaxa ethnic group, who have inhabited the area (as well as parts of modern-day Montana, Washington and Idaho) since time immemorial. It is the Ktunaxa after whom the region draws its name. The Ktunaxa are linguistically distinct from other First Nations. The western stretches of the Kootenay region are also considered traditional Okanagan and Secwepemc territory.

The Kootenay River served as a transportation artery and food source, as well as a primary site for many Ktunaxa villages.

 

?Akisq’nuk First Nation

Language: Ktunaxa

Population: 275

Akisqnuk First Natio is a vibrant Ktunaxa Nation, Aboriginal Community located Near Windermere, British Columbia, Canada. Located in an area of unparalleled natural beauty, Akisqnuk neighbours the communities of Windermere to the north and Fairmont Hot Springs to the south. Akisqnuk’s western border reaches along the pristine shores of Lake Windermere for 14 kilometres (nine miles).

 

Lower Kootenay

Language:Ktunaxa

Population: 242

The Lower Kootenay First Nation is a First Nation based in the East Kootenay region of British Columbia.

Lower Kootenay First Nation owns and operates the Lower Kootenay Development Corporation, which interests are currently in the forestry, agriculture, energy and tourism sectors.

 

Shuswap

Language: Secwepemctsín

Population: 266

The Shuswap First Nation is located in the East Kootenay region of British Columbia.

 

St. Mary’s

Language: Ktunaxa

Population: 391

Also known as ?Aq’am, St. Mary’s is a member community of the Ktunaxa Nation based in the East Kootenay region of British Columbia.

 

Tobacco Plains

Language: Ktunaxa

Population: 207

The Tobacco Plains Indian Band is located in Grasmere, BC near the Roosville Border Crossing. We are part of the Ktunaxa Nation.

Tobacco Plains operates the Tobacco Plains Development Corporation, which is primarily a real estate management company.