Hay Lake 209 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hay Lake 209
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|---|---|
| Hay Lake Indian Reserve No. 209 | |
Location in Alberta
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| First Nation | Dene Tha' |
| Treaty | 8 |
| Country | Canada |
| Province | Alberta |
| Specialized municipality | Mackenzie |
| Area | |
| • Total | 12,355.3 ha (30,530.6 acre) |
| • Land | 103.57 km2 (39.99 sq mi) |
| Population
(2016)
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| • Total | 883 |
| • Density | 8.5/km2 (22/sq mi) |
Hay Lake 209 is a special area of land in Alberta, Canada. It's known as an Indian reserve, which is land set aside for a First Nation group. This particular reserve belongs to the Dene Tha' First Nation. It is located within Mackenzie County, about 100 kilometers (62 miles) northwest of a town called High Level. In 2016, a census showed that 883 people lived here.
Contents
Understanding Indian Reserves
What is an Indian Reserve?
An Indian reserve is a piece of land in Canada that the government has set aside for the use and benefit of a First Nations band. These lands are protected by law. They are meant to be a permanent home for First Nations communities.
Why were Reserves Created?
Reserves were created as part of agreements called treaties between First Nations and the Canadian government. These treaties often involved First Nations sharing their traditional lands. In return, they were promised certain rights and lands, including reserves.
The Dene Tha' First Nation
Who are the Dene Tha'?
The Dene Tha' are an Indigenous people who have lived in the northwestern parts of Alberta for a very long time. They are part of the larger Dene family. Their traditional territory covers a vast area of forests, lakes, and rivers.
Culture and History
The Dene Tha' people have a rich culture. It includes traditional hunting, trapping, and fishing. Their history is deeply connected to the land. They have strong spiritual beliefs and oral traditions that pass down their knowledge. Hay Lake 209 is one of the reserves where many Dene Tha' people live today.
Location and Size of Hay Lake 209
Where is Hay Lake 209?
Hay Lake 209 is located in the northern part of Alberta. It is found within Mackenzie County, which is a large area in the province. The reserve is quite remote, situated in a beautiful natural environment.
How Big is the Reserve?
The total area of Hay Lake 209 is about 103.57 square kilometers (about 40 square miles). To give you an idea, that's roughly the size of a medium-sized city. This land provides space for homes, community buildings, and natural areas.
Population and Community Life
How Many People Live Here?
According to the 2016 Canadian Census, 883 people lived on Hay Lake 209. These residents lived in 247 different homes. This means it's a close-knit community where people often know each other.
Community Activities
Life on the reserve often involves a mix of traditional practices and modern living. Community members work together to keep their culture alive. They also participate in local governance and community events.
Treaty 8 and its Importance
What is Treaty 8?
Hay Lake 209 is part of the lands covered by Treaty 8. This was a major agreement signed in 1899 between the Crown (the Canadian government) and several First Nations, including the Dene Tha'. It covers a huge area of northern Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan.
Why is Treaty 8 Important?
Treaty 8 is very important because it set out the rights and responsibilities of both the First Nations and the government. It dealt with land use, hunting, fishing, education, and other matters. For the Dene Tha' First Nation, Treaty 8 is a foundational document that defines their relationship with Canada.
