Image from Tsawout Marine Use Study
This week, I came across a study outlining Tsawout uses of different marine animals. Tsawout First Nation is located near central Saanich on Saanichton Bay. The community practices subsistence farming and hunting of species in order to sustain populations and not disrupt the ecosystem. The study examines the different methods, uses, and frequency of gathering for certain marine creatures. Most of the marine life harvested or hunted by the Tsawout is consumed within the household or shared with immediate community.
Crab is the most common food source gathered by the Tsawout, an important feature at community events. Shrimp and shellfish are also commonly gathered by the Tsawout, harvested and eaten fresh or dried and preserved for the winter. The study notes that it can be difficult for the Tsawout to find clean beaches to harvest shellfish from and often shellfish must be harvested on more remote islands, which poses a barrier for those without access to boats. The Tsawout fish salmon, cod, rockfish, flounder, sole, halibut, sturgeon and herring. The study notes that chitons and sea cucumbers are occasionally harvested and eaten, but it is not as common.
Sea urchins (XIWE or SQUITZI) are a delicacy and a medicine for the Tsawout. Medicinal properties are derived from the high iron content in XIWE/SQUITZI. XIWE/SQUITZI are used for ceremonial purposes, especially in funerals and during the process of grieving. Octopus are important creatures to the Tsawout due to their intelligence and belief that octopus once came from humans. They are fished to be eaten and also used as bait for other types of fishing.
I’m glad I had the chance to research Indigenous connections to the creatures I often see at the ocean- it provides a different and important perspective. There is so much history to consider about the ocean and the relationship Indigenous communities have to it – an important lesson I could see myself bringing in to future social studies classes as well.
