Life on 'Na̱mg̱is territory at the edge of the ocean

On Cormorant Island, the 'Na̱mg̱is community faces changing winters, frequent storms and regular power outages while leaders work to restore fisheries and press for greater recognition of their sovereignty.

'Na̱mg̱is Chief Ho'miskanis Don Svanvik met the reporter after a ferry arrival in Alert Bay on Cormorant Island. He pointed out totem pole supports and spoke about how weather and standing water affect wooden monuments. The island's winters and storm patterns have changed since his youth, and power outages are common. Community members are working on fisheries restoration and land-use plans while seeking greater respect for 'Na̱mg̱is sovereignty. Key details: - About 1,000 people live on Cormorant Island, which is roughly four kilometres long and one kilometre wide. - Winters have become less snowy and storms are more unpredictable; one local said the community experienced 21 power outages in a year and a grocery store once lost over $40,000 in product. - Totem poles at the burial grounds have steel braces; Svanvik noted differences in how poles are supported and how that affects durability in weather. - Local livelihoods are affected: the fishing fleet is much smaller than before, derelict boats sit on the beach, and residents such as clam-digger Lorne Smith and fisherman John Webster describe challenges getting fish. - Elected Chief Victor Isaac and others report efforts to rebuild struggling fish populations, develop sustainable land-use plans, and press the provincial government to respect 'Na̱mg̱is sovereignty. Summary: Life on Cormorant Island reflects changing environmental and economic conditions that affect infrastructure, cultural sites and local livelihoods. Community leaders and allies are repairing and adapting cultural monuments, pursuing fishery recovery and advancing land-use planning while seeking stronger recognition of 'Na̱mg̱is authority. Progress is described as gradual and collaborative.