The Katzie First Nation peoples have strong cultural ties to Pitt Lake, also known as “sq̓ə́yc̓əyaʔɬ x̌acaʔ (the lake of the Katzie).” This lake is right in the middle of their traditional territory. Their powerful benefactor Swaneset shaped the lake and surrounded land, entrusting the Katzie First Nation peoples to take care of the land and waters so that they can care for the Katzie people in return. To this day, Katzie First Nation stewards the land and waters through environmental and wildlife conservation.

The q̓ic̓əy̓ (Katzie) name itself means “Land of the moss.” The wetlands south of Pitt Lake and their sloughs were central to Katzie ways of life, sustaining their people with hunting grounds and plant life. Katzie peoples had strict protocols to prevent overhunting, overfishing and overharvesting.

We humbly request your help with maintaining the beauty of Pitt Lake and Widgeon by using the provided garbage disposal areas, packing out what you pack in, and staying on the allotted trails surrounding the area. These trials are mapped out specifically to avoid nesting areas for bird species. Please do not harass or feed our local wildlife, and observe our animal neighbors from a safe distance.