Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program (REDIP)

Advancing Food Sovereignty and Economic Resilience

We are excited to share updates on the REDIP initiative, which focuses on revitalizing ancestral practices, fostering sustainable resource management, and supporting economic diversification within the Haíɫzaqv community.

About the Project

This project aims to:

  • Revitalize and future-proof λíλábac̓i (clam gardens) through community visits, rock wall restoration, and clam harvesting.

  • Establish local seed labs and create value-added branding, marketing, and retail opportunities.

  • Foster collaboration with academic institutions and industry partners to support sustainable practices.

Current Progress

The project is currently in the planning phase, with key milestones including:

  • Organizing a Kelp Symposium in May 2025.

  • Planning a SEAS visit to λábac̓i for clam harvesting, wall restoration, and distributing butter clams to elders.

  • Engaging with community programs to ensure alignment with local needs and goals.

Timeline

  • 2024: Project planning and REDIP application submission.

  • May 2025: Kelp Symposium.

  • Duration: One year of funding, with potential for extensions based on success.

Upcoming Dates:

  • Community dinner before/after the kelp symposium (date TBD).

Community Involvement

Community participation is integral to this project, with opportunities including:

  • Engagement through local programming.

  • Participation in community events and online surveys to provide input.

Partnerships and Support

This project is supported by partnerships with:

  • North Island College

  • Coastal First Nations Fishery

  • Community-Based Fishery - Haíɫc̓istut

  • Haíɫzaqv Tribal Council

  • Aboriginal Aquaculture Association

  • Cascadia Seaweed

  • PEW Foundation

These collaborators are providing funding and resources for the Kelp Symposium and ongoing planning efforts.

Sustainability and Impact

Sustainability Goals:

  • Strengthen and preserve clam gardens to withstand projected sea-level rise.

Community Impact:

  • Promote cultural revitalization and traditional trading systems.

  • Develop branding and marketing strategies to support future kelp aquaculture efforts.