Upper Nicola Band facts for kids
The Upper Nicola Band is a group of First Nations people. They live in the beautiful British Columbia province of Canada. Their traditional name is Spax̌mn̓, which is also spelled Spaxomin. They live near a town called Merritt. This area is known as Nicola Country, close to Douglas Lake.
The Upper Nicola Band is part of two important groups. They are a member of the Okanagan Nation Alliance. They also belong to the Scwʼexmx Tribal Council. This council brings together Okanagan and Nlaka'pamux bands to work on common goals.
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About the Upper Nicola Band
The Upper Nicola Band is a self-governing group of Indigenous people. They are part of the larger Syilx (Okanagan) Nation. Being a "band government" means they manage their own community. They make decisions about their land, culture, and future. This helps them keep their traditions strong.
Where is the Upper Nicola Band?
The Upper Nicola Band lives in a special part of British Columbia. This area is called Nicola Country. It is known for its beautiful lakes and rivers. Their main community is near Douglas Lake. This is not far from the town of Merritt. The land has been home to their ancestors for thousands of years.
What is a First Nation Band?
In Canada, a "First Nation band" is a community of Indigenous people. They have their own government. This government works to support their members. They manage services like education, housing, and health. They also work to protect their culture and language. The Upper Nicola Band is one such community.
Working Together: Alliances and Councils
The Upper Nicola Band works with other First Nations. They are part of the Okanagan Nation Alliance. This alliance helps different Okanagan communities work together. They share knowledge and resources. They also belong to the Scwʼexmx Tribal Council. This council includes both Okanagan and Nlaka'pamux bands. Working together helps them have a stronger voice. It also helps them protect their shared interests.
Upper Nicola Band's Land: Indian Reserves
The Upper Nicola Band manages several areas of land. These lands are called Indian Reserves. These reserves are special areas set aside for First Nations communities. They are important for living, cultural practices, and economic activities.
What are Indian Reserves?
An Indian Reserve is land that has been set aside by the Canadian government. This land is for the use and benefit of a specific First Nation band. These lands are very important. They help First Nations keep their communities together. They also help them practice their traditions. The Upper Nicola Band has several such reserves.
The Lands of the Upper Nicola Band
The Upper Nicola Band administers several Indian Reserves. Each reserve has a unique name and size. These lands are vital to the community. They provide space for homes, businesses, and cultural activities. Here are some of the reserves they manage:
- Nicola Lake 1: This is a large reserve, covering about 2,699 acres.
- Hamilton Creek 2: A smaller reserve, about 60 acres in size.
- Douglas Lake 3: This is the largest reserve, with about 23,047 acres.
- Spahomin Creek 4: This reserve is approximately 32 acres.
- Chapperon Lake 5: This reserve covers about 725 acres.
- Chapperon Creek 6: A smaller reserve, about 15 acres.
- Salmon Lake 7: This reserve is about 172 acres.
- Spahomin Creek 8: Another large reserve, covering about 3,857 acres.
- Hihium Lake 6: This reserve is about 78 acres. It is shared. The Upper Nicola Band shares it with the Lower Nicola, Bonaparte, and Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc Bands.
