Wahkohtowin ran its 5th year of the Guardian Program in 2024 with strong support from community members, Elders and Collaborative partners.
"One of the most remarkable events was the creation of a 14-foot birchbark canoe. Guardians collected spruce roots and transformed raw materials into a functional and beautiful canoe just like our ancestors have done for thousands of years.. ”
Are you ready for an enriching summer experience that blends learning, culture, and excitement? Look no further than the Wahkohtowin Guardian Program. This past summer was filled with memorable moments, and we are eager for you to join us next year!
A Thrilling Start
The program began with our Guardians immersing themselves in essential training. From mastering tree and species identification to honing bear awareness—crucial knowledge for safety in the wild—these youth acquired valuable skills to help them protect the environment they hold dear. Imagine confidently identifying plants and wildlife with ease—an impressive and practical ability!
Cultural Craftsmanship: The Birchbark Canoe Build
One of the most remarkable events was the creation of a 14-foot birchbark canoe. With hands-on instruction from master canoe builder Chuck Commanda, the Guardians collected spruce roots and transformed raw materials into a functional and beautiful canoe just like our ancestors have done for thousands of years. They learned skills like splitting spruce roots and bending cedar gunnels using steam. Community members and special guests joined in, fostering a spirit of collaboration and learning. If you enjoy building and working with your hands, this event is perfect for you.
Nature, Community, and Adventure
Beyond crafting the canoe, our Guardians took part in meaningful community activities. They planted traditional medicines such as Sema (Tobacco), developed bird monitoring skills, and participated in cultural gatherings with Chapleau Cree First Nation, Brunswick House First Nation, Missanabie Cree First Nation, and Michipicoten First Nation. It was a unique opportunity to connect with nature and the community, through land based stewardship and learning activities. Guardians enjoyed stargazing, crafting dream catchers and drums, and sharing stories around a cultural fire led by Knowledge Keepers. If you are seeking lasting friendships and adventures while learning key skills that build your resume and career path, this is the place to be!
Land Stewardship: Building Skills for the Future
A key element of the Wahkohtowin Guardian Program is land stewardship, where participants engage in hands-on activities like monitoring, silviculture, brushing, and manual tending. These essential practices teach the Guardians how to manage and care for the environment sustainably. Through monitoring, they learn to assess the health of local ecosystems, while silviculture introduces them to managing forest growth and promoting sustainable forestry. Brushing and manual tending help maintain forest ecosystems by controlling competing vegetation and supporting young tree development. These skills are not only vital for environmental conservation but also provide a strong foundation for future careers in environmental management, forestry, or conservation. By gaining real-world experience in land stewardship, participants prepare for meaningful roles in protecting the environment in the emerging conservation economy.
Graduation and Celebration
The program concluded with a heartfelt graduation ceremony, celebrating the Guardians’ hard work and dedication. Elders from Chapleau Cree First Nation, including John Sailors and Marjorie Cachagee, opened with prayers and shared inspiring words. Wahkohtowin staff, including Guardian Program Coordinator Darcie Piche, General Manager David Flood, Senior Project Manager Shah Mohamed, Forest Conservation Coordinator Stevie Luzzi, and Research Consultation Coordinator Elena McCulloch, commended each Guardian for their commitment. The joy and pride were evident, making it clear that this summer was a great success.
Be Part of the Summer of 2025
Are you ready to embark on this adventure? The Wahkohtowin Guardian Program is more than just environmental stewardship; it is a journey of self-discovery, cultural exploration, and forming friendships that will last a lifetime. Whether you are passionate about nature, art, or seeking an unforgettable experience, we invite you to join us.
Stay tuned for announcements regarding the 2025 program on Wahkohtowin.com. This could be the summer that transforms your life—don’t miss out! Join us in making a meaningful impact while having an extraordinary time.
Chi-Miigwetch for considering the Wahkohtowin Guardian Program. We look forward to welcoming you next summer!
Author: Darcie Piche - Guardian Program Coordinator - Wahkohtowin
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