Global BC visits Haida Gwaii

As part of our our “Explore BC” series, our News Hour team was in Haida Gwaii this week to tell stories about one of the most remote – but most interesting – parts of British Columbia.

The Haida Watchmen Program was set up in the early 1980s for the protection of Gwaii Haanas, where hundreds of archeological and historical sites have been documented. Linda Aylesworth explained the role the Watchmen play, and how they’re protecting and preserving Haida culture through education.

“I wanted to feel connected to my ancestors, and to my culture, because we believe everything’s connected,” said Fallon Crosby, a Haida Watchman.

2:54 How the Haida Watchmen Program began

Mark Madryga tried to try the quintessential Haida Gwaii experience: Dungeness crab net fishing at North Beach.

2:17 Mark Madryga goes Dungeness crab net fishing

And a diversity of experiences is attracting tourists from around the world to Haida Gwaii, bringing in tens of millions of dollars to the region. But as Sophie Lui reports, the benefits aren’t only financial.

3:30 Haida Gwaii attracts tourists from around the world

READ MORE: Aboriginal tourism in B.C. aims to balance culture and commerce