North Saskatchewan River designated a Canadian Heritage River
On March 22, the entire section of the river flowing in Alberta was designated under the Canadian Heritage River System. Heritage places reflect the rich and varied stories of Canada and provide an opportunity for Canadians to learn more about our diverse history.
The North Saskatchewan River is a traditional gathering place, travel route, and home to Indigenous peoples including the nêhiyawak (Cree), Niitsitapi (Blackfoot), Ktunaxa, Métis, Nakota Sioux, Iroquois, Dene, Ojibwe, Saulteaux, Anishinaabe, Inuit, and Assiniboine.
The river is known as kisiskâciwani-sîpiy, meaning “swift-flowing river” in nêhiyawêwin (Cree), and Omaka-ty, meaning “the big river” in Niitsitapi (Blackfoot). This designation provides an opportunity to foster support for wider use of Indigenous languages and cultural connections to this important waterway.
For centuries, the river was a transportation and trade route, first for Indigenous peoples, then settlers and explorers coming from the east to the Rocky Mountains. kisiskâciwanisîpiy played a pivotal role in the fur trade, early scientific expeditions, human settlement patterns and agriculture.
River Valley News shortlisted for the 2024 Emerald Awards
This newsletter has been shortlisted in the Public Engagement & Outreach category of the Annual Emerald Awards. Winners will be announced at the 33rd Annual Emerald Awards in Calgary on June 6, 2024.
The citation noted the weekly publication shares historical narratives, promotes engagement in valley issues, and highlights Indigenous knowledge, biodiversity, and recreational opportunities. With 100% volunteer efforts, it has garnered 2450 email subscribers and 1770 Facebook followers, amplifying its impact.
River Valley News serves as a platform to celebrate Edmonton’s North Saskatchewan River Valley and engage residents in its past, present, and future. Beyond information dissemination, the NSRVCS actively participates in decision-making processes, including city modernization initiatives and the proposal for a national urban park.
The newsletter plays a crucial role in this by providing timely updates and opportunities for public input and enhancing citizen awareness and engagement on issues like climate impacts, wildlife conservation, and proposed developments.
River Valley News fosters community cohesion by providing a platform for diverse voices to share their stories and perspectives on nature preservation and access. This inclusivity addresses an unmet need, particularly for newcomers to the city, who may lack information on local environmental initiatives and opportunities for involvement. https://emeraldfoundation.ca/33rd-annual-emerald-awards-celebrating-environmental-excellence/
Edmonton riverboat looking for a new owner
The Edmonton Riverboat, a paddlewheeler that has cruised the North Saskatchewan River for nearly three decades, is up for sale. The owners of the boat previously known as the Edmonton Queen are searching for a new captain to take the wheel.
The boat is a unique buy. Weighing in at 210 tonnes, the 52-metre steel-hulled paddlewheeler has the capacity to host more than 300 passengers. It has a working restaurant, a wet bar, an open-air dining deck and a dance floor. Edmonton businessman Jay Esterer has been the boat's owner since 2016. He purchased it for $553,000 after the previous owner put it up for auction.
The riverboat has changed hands many times since it first sailed the river in 1995, The boat, a nod to Edmonton's steamboat era, has since served as a unique attraction, hosting special events and offering river valley cruises through the summer season. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/edmonton-riverboat-queen-for-sale-1.7150975
Fishing the North Saskatchewan river in Edmonton
Ron writes “I wonder what people catch. I wonder whether the river still has Sturgeon and how big?”
Editor’s note: “Fish in the river include Burbot, Goldeye, Lake Sturgeon, Mountain Whitefish, Northern Pike, Sauger, five species of Sucker, and Walleye. Lake sturgeon are the largest and longest living fish in the river. The Alberta angling record is 47.7 kg and the maximum fork length is 170 cm. Lake Sturgeon are a Threatened Species due to population size and concerns with viability. There is a zero possession limit across the province. If you catch Lake Sturgeon, you must release it.”
The Circle of Life by Alex Janvier, Main rotunda in Muttart Conservatory
https://www.edmontonarts.ca/public-art/the-circle-of-life
Comment or Contributions
Please note articles may not reflect the position of NSRVCS. River Valley News is meant to be a clearinghouse for the variety of opinions and ideas about Edmonton’s River Valley.
Email river valley photos, event information, comments, or questions to nsrivervalley@gmail.com