Integrating archaeology and Indigenous partnerships in trail planning — webinar recap

Image: Destination BC and Marcus Paladino

On November 25, 2025, ORCBC hosted a powerful and timely webinar: “Integrating archaeology and Indigenous partnerships in trail planning.” This event brought together trail-builders, planners, Indigenous partners, heritage professionals, and recreation advocates to explore how archaeological studies and Indigenous collaboration can lead to richer, more respectful, and long-lasting recreation infrastructure in BC.

Who spoke

Our panel featured four experienced professionals from across the field:

• Linden Priest: Recreation Planning Lead, Cabin Operations

• Mike Elvidge: Heritage Division Manager, Cabin Resource Management

• Thomas Schoen: CEO, First Journey Consulting Ltd.

• Tom Eustache: Public Works Manager, Simpcw First Nation

Through their presentations, panellists addressed the legal frameworks, practical processes, and, crucially, the community and relationship-building potential inherent in archaeological assessments tied to recreation projects.

Key takeaways

Archaeology isn’t just a regulatory hurdle — it’s an opportunity

While compliance with legal requirements (like the Heritage Conservation Act (HCA)) is essential, the webinar emphasized that archaeological surveys can — and should — be the first step in building collaborative relationships with local Indigenous communities. Done thoughtfully, archaeology can deepen cultural understanding, foster respect, and lead to recreation infrastructure that reflects shared histories.

Three types of surveys — choose wisely

In BC, the right type of archaeological study depends on the context. The webinar outlined three common survey types:

• Archaeological Overview Assessment (AOA) — desktop research and background checks.

• Preliminary Field Reconnaissance (PFR) — preliminary on-the-ground assessment.

• Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA) — a more involved study, often needed in sensitive areas.

Most recreation-oriented projects begin with AOA or PFR.

Benefits go beyond permits

• Smoother permitting process & risk reduction — Proper archaeological work lowers the risk that a project will be halted or delayed due to unexpected heritage finds.

• Stronger relationships with First Nations — Engaging Nations early signals respect and builds trust. Projects can evolve into efforts that tell a richer story of place, stewardship, and shared history.

• Better recreation experiences — Trails and outdoor spaces that acknowledge and reflect Indigenous heritage and context offer deeper meaning — not just for users, but for the broader community.

What this means for trail-builders, clubs, and communities

• Start early: Incorporate archaeological assessment and Indigenous engagement at the very beginning of planning. Don’t treat heritage as an afterthought.

• Build relationships — not just compliance files: Reach out to Indigenous nations early; where possible, engage directly (not only through consultants), listen, and build shared vision.

• Be prepared to adapt plans: Archaeological findings and community input might require design changes — but that’s part of building respectful, lasting infrastructure.

• Recognize value beyond trails: This work strengthens cultural understanding, supports reconciliation, and creates trails and recreation assets rooted in place and history.

Why this matters for BC’s outdoor recreation future

As more communities in BC aim to build or expand outdoor recreation infrastructure, this webinar shows how we can — and should — do so responsibly. By linking recreation planning with heritage protection and Indigenous partnerships, we help ensure that the trails we build are not just functional, but meaningful. This helps align recreation with reconciliation, stewardship, and long-term sustainability.

For everyone involved, this approach represents a path toward recreation infrastructure that respects place, history, and people.