Skooks Landing has been used for years as the only feasible site to launce boats in the entire the area (due to numerous rapids). It is also the only site to enable access into the MKMA via the Kechika / Turnigan River systems.
The existing site has no area to park trucks / boats and trailers. In the past everyone just parked on the river bank, this area flooded several time involving parked vehicles, this created a severe safety / environmental hazards. It also has no facilities for people launching boats or staging for activities.
For several years, the Kaska Nation, Toad River Area Club (TRAC), North East BC Wildlife Fund (NEBCWF), and the Province of BC (Recreation Sites & Trails), have been working collaboratively to establish a recreation site at Skook’s landing (map attached). As you may be aware, Skook’s Landing holds significant cultural and recreational value for our region. It is a place where community members, resident hunters , and guide Outfitters all gather to connect with nature, engage in outdoor activities, and celebrate our shared heritage.
The proposed project aims to develop infrastructure and amenities that will improve access to the site while ensuring its long-term sustainability. This includes the construction and/or improvement of a boat launch, parking area, and interpretive signage. Traditional Kaska knowledge and practices continue to be incorporated into the design and management of the site, fostering cultural appreciation and awareness among visitors. We believe that the recreation site at Skook’s Landing will not only benefit local residents, but will provide visitors with a positive and educational experience while in our region.
We have received letters of support from: NEBCWF, TRAC, and Northern Rockies Regional Municipality as well as Kaska Nation support.
Due to very limited Government funding available for this project, we are requesting any group or individual that would like to donate to get this work completed, please contact us so we can establish a schedule of equipment and personal to complete activities. The cost estimate is $210,000.
At this time we would like (in the next few weeks) to be able to mob in a d-7 dozer and a 225 excavator (of equivalent size) to clear, pile, and burn the brush on the site. By doing it this time of year we are outside of fire season, bird nesting window time line. It does mean mobbing in equipment a second time but we would have the site ready if we are able to obtain funding to complete the project next summer.
Thanks
Jim Fulton (President of Toad River Area Club & Pres. of NEBCWF)
Tom Fulton (Director of special projects NEBCWF and director of TRAC Planning Committee)
Please contact Tom for more information or to contribute equipment or funding: tomfulton.bc@gmail.com
