Gwa̲xdlala / Nala̲xdlala IPCA

Description

This highly diverse and unique site contains a wide range of habitats, including a shallow sill ecosystem, two estuaries, eelgrass beds, kelp forests, gravel and sand beaches, rock cliffs and steep fjord walls. The area has high biological diversity as seen in the variety of marine birds, salmon species, and rockfish, while the shallow sill ecosystem is home to rare coral and sponges, including gorgonian corals, basket stars, glass boot sponges, soft goblet sponge, cloud sponge, and brain sponge, gunpowder star, cookie star, and healthy sunflower sea stars. The estuaries and associated species also offer critical habitat for sustaining healthy grizzly bear populations.

The site is of high cultural and spiritual importance to the Mamalilikulla First Nation and is known as the Nation’s homeland and place of origin. The area is also known for its rich marine resources, hunting and timber activities, and hosts several ancient village sites and numerous other archaeological features. The area continues to be used for traditional food harvesting and cultural practices.