News Release September 1, 2009
Document Actions
For Immediate Release
September 1, 2009
GATHERING
AT HOZOMEEN features
unique
Cross-Border Partnership
HOPE – The first time gathering of
Washington and BC First Nations, archaeologists, anthropologists and the
interested public showcases a unique partnership between US and BC Park
rangers. Visitors to the Gathering at Hozomeen on
September 12 and 13 will see several projects that illustrate this cross-border
park partnership. Throughout the summer
National Park Service and BC Park rangers work together in the Skagit Valley
Provincial Park and the North Cascades National
Park to deliver joint interpretive programming. They even share a ranger station.
An interpretive building with
seating at International Point provides the venue for innovative program
offerings and is used as a starting point for guided walks.
On Saturday September 12 rangers will share their knowledge on the wide
variety of wildlife found in the Skagit Valley.
This year a new group-size fire
hearth has been built, with the cooperation of both park agencies. The fire hearth is close to the interpretive building and
will be used as part of the opening and closing ceremonies for the Gathering at
International Point in the Skagit Valley.
The Skagit Environmental Endowment
Commission (SEEC) is hosting this two-day event highlighting the historical use
of the Skagit watershed by ancient indigenous
peoples. The theme for the Gathering at Hozomeen is
“Sharing What We Know.” The event begins on Saturday,
September 12 at noon with a welcoming ceremony and afternoon program including
demonstrations of traditional activities, crafts, tours on Ross Lake, archaeological displays and a salmon
barbeque.
Sunday, September 13 will kick off with a pancake breakfast at 8 a.m. and time for archaeologists and anthropologists to share some of the stories of their study in the Skagit.
After the event, another
cross-border partnership will produce a documentary featuring knowledge shared
at Hozomeen for use in Canadian and American schools, parks and outdoor
programs.
Members of the public are invited to attend this free event but must pre-register at the SEEC website at www.skagiteec.org or by calling (604) 619-4311.
Partner groups of the SEEC that are
also participating include North Cascades Institute, Seattle City Light and Hope
Mountain Centre.
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Media Contact:
Rudy
Kehler
SEEC Outreach
(604) 869-1026
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Skagit Environmental Endowment Commission
< http://skagiteec.org >
North Cascades National Park Service:
< http://www.nps.gov/rola >
Skagit Valley Provincial Park:
< http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/skagit >