Image: Ch'iyáqtel (Tzeachten First Nation) / An aerial view of Ch'iyáqtel (Tzeachten First Nation) in Chilliwack. Ch'iyáqtel announced Wednesday night (Jan. 15) that it has acquired and added 50 acres of land within its traditional territory to its reserve in Chilliwack.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Land acquisition

Chilliwack First Nation acquires 50 acres of land adjacent to its existing reserve land

Jan 15, 2025 | 9:38 PM

CHILLIWACK — A Chilliwack First Nation announced Wednesday night (Jan. 15) that it has acquired and added 50 acres of land within its traditional territory to its reserve in Chilliwack.

According to a statement, Ch’iyáqtel (Tzeachten First Nation) says the newly acquired lands, located within Ch’iyáqtel’s traditional territory and adjacent to existing reserve lands, represent a significant step in reclaiming and stewarding ancestral lands.

“This land is critical to our ability to plan for future generations,” said Ch’iyáqtel Chief Derek Epp. “It marks a significant milestone in reclaiming traditional territory and preparing for the future of Ch’iyáqtel people.”

Chief Epp said colonization and the historical appropriation of traditional lands resulted in most Ch’iyáqtel’s land being privately owned by individual community members rather than the First Nation itself.

“This limits our ability to address community-wide needs. Reacquiring this land is a step toward correcting these injustices, securing sustainable growth, and planning for essential infrastructure, housing, and public spaces while honoring our history and traditions,” Chief Epp said.

Land acquisition

Chilliwack First Nation acquires 50 acres of land adjacent to its existing reserve land

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The First Nation says it worked closely with the federal government to expedite the Additions to Reserve process, ensuring the land could formally become part of Ch’iyáqtel’s reserve. This collaboration reinforced the importance of addressing critical issues such as attainable and affordable housing, infrastructure development, community safety, and sustainable growth, the band said.

Moving forward, Ch’iyáqtel says it is embarking on a comprehensive planning process that will engage both its members and the City of Chilliwack to create a master plan for the site.

“This collaborative effort aims to establish a balanced, long-term vision for the community’s future,” Ch’iyáqtel said. “The Nation has already begun collaborating with the City of Chilliwack to address road connectivity and reduce traffic impacts, while also planning for future recreational and public infrastructure needs.”

The band did not disclose exactly where the 50 acres of land were located, but it’s believed to be agricultural land contiguous with its reserve.