Chu Chua, BC – April 11, 2025 – Today, Simpcw and the District of Clearwater have come together in a ceremony to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and
Protocol Agreement, which represents the strengthening relationship between the two governments which is grounded in respect, openness, understanding, and trust.
The MOU states, in Secwepemctsín: “Re Simpcw ell re District of Clearwater me7 le7 k st7eks k stemi re stqwelminst.s,” meaning “Simpcw and District of Clearwater will talk and everything will be good.”
Quote from the Mayor of Clearwater: “This is a good day for Clearwater. This MOU solidifies the relationship between Clearwater and the Simpcw First Nation and gives us a framework to work from. All North Thompson and Robson Valley elected leaders have already seen much success collaborating and negotiating in partnership with Simpcw leadership, especially in talks with provincial government ministers and their ministry staff. I look forward to many successful years of working together for the greater good of all residents.”
Quote from Kukwpí7 George: “Today marks a significant milestone for Simpcw as we move forward with this Memorandum of Understanding. We believe that such partnerships are essential for fostering positive collaboration that benefits the municipalities in Simpcw Territory, proponents, and our community alike. This MOU is a step toward building strong, respectful relationships, reflecting our shared commitment to working together in a spirit of cooperation and reconciliation. It is a key moment for strengthening bonds and advancing mutual success.”
Kúkwpi7 George Lampreau and Simpcw Tќwenem7i’ple7 (Councillors) came together with the Mayor and Council of Clearwater in Chu Chua during the Community to Community Forum 2025. Clearwater is the second municipality in Simpcwúĺecw (Simpcw Territory), after Valemount (MOU signing on March 6, 2024) to enter into a close relationship with Simpcw in the spirit of cooperation and reconciliation through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
The District of Clearwater is committed to strengthening this relationship and to building a shared future with Simpcw whose territory all reside on. Simpcw has prioritized building relationships through agreements with municipalities and the Thompson Nicola Regional District. Last June Simpcw entered in an MOU with the TNRD and is working to develop a similar agreement with the Village of McBride and others.
About Simpcw
Simpcw, a Secwépemc campfire, are the yecwemínmen (guardians/caretakers) of Simpcwùĺecw (Simpcw Territory). Simpcwùĺecw includes more than 5 million hectares in the North Thompson and Robson valleys, from McLure in the South to Kakwa Park in the North. This area covers Jasper and the Eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains, the headwaters of the Athabasca River, and the Big Bend of the Columbia River.
About the District of Clearwater
The District of Clearwater is a welcoming and resilient community located at the confluence of the North Thompson and Clearwater Rivers, and the gateway to Wells Gray Provincial Park. Known for its stunning landscapes and strong sense of place, Clearwater is proud to be located within Simpcwúĺecw. With a population of just over 2,500, the community offers a balance of small-town charm and natural beauty, serving as a hub for outdoor adventure, tourism, and regional services in the North Thompson Valley.
MOU signing Simpcw with Clearwater April 11 2025 – press release