The Lheidli T’enneh First Nation broke ground on a new wastewater treatment plant this year, but members say it’s a bittersweet moment because the new facility will only serve one half of the community, which is separated by a broad river.
The Lheidli T’enneh originally occupied land on what is now Prince George, B.C. In the 1910s, they were moved by federal officials around 12 kilometres northeast onto reserve land that was divided in two by the Fraser River, known as the Ltha Koh in the Dakelh language.
Like other reserves across Canada, the parcel of land, known as Fort George 2, has faced infrastructure challenges, with a lack of clean drinking water and sewer services.
The opening of the new wastewater treatment plant means after 40 years, residents on the north side of the river will no longer have to rely on the septic systems that would sometimes lead to grey water seeping up into people’s yards.
“This is going to help us live healthier lives,” said Lheidli T’enneh Councillor Joshua Seymour, who said more work needs to be done.
“We still don’t have potable, clean drinking water,” he added.
There is also no means of connecting the new treatment plant to homes on the other side of the river.
Chief Dolleen Logan says she has lobbied Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada but has been told they won’t fund a second treatment plant, meaning creating a bridge is essential.
Building a bridge would also foster stronger relationships among residents and open up opportunities, said Councillor Wendy Jael, who lives on the south side, which is considerably smaller.
Currently, getting from one half of the reserve to the other requires a 17-kilometre drive on a forest service road.
“It’s very heartbreaking separation because … everything happens on the north side and very little on the south side because we don’t have the space,” Jael said.
In a statement, the B.C. Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation said it meets regularly with the Lheidli T’enneh and that it support’s the nation’s “desire to achieve improved outcomes for their members on its reserve lands and hopes more active discussions with the federal government can achieve this.”
CBC News requested comment from Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada but has yet to receive a response.