This is a joint release between the Government of Yukon and Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in.
In May of 2023, an ice jam formed at the confluence of the Fortymile and Yukon Rivers, resulting in extensive ice and water damage to the co-managed Ch'ëdähdëk (Forty Mile) Historic Site. Following damage assessments and stabilization of the remaining infrastructure, the Yukon and Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in governments have contracted ERA Architects to lead the development of a conservation plan to provide options and guidance for the future of the site.
With a consultant now in place, planning will begin with a community engagement event in Dawson on June 14. The event will open with a free barbecue at the Dänojà Zho Cultural Centre at 4:30 pm, followed by presentations and guided discussions starting at 5:30 pm at the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Community Hall.
Due to the hazards posed by debris, damaged trails and unstable structures, Ch'ëdähdëk (Forty Mile) remains closed to the public. Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in and the Government of Yukon ask the public not to travel to the site until further notice.
A finalized conservation plan is anticipated by 2025.
The launch of community engagement for the Ch'ëdähdëk Historic Site conservation plan marks a pivotal step in preserving the cultural significance of this site for generations to come. Given the site’s cultural significance and enduring popularity, we know that community involvement will be central as we move forward together to determine what comes next. I look forward to learning what Yukoners envision.
Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in are excited to begin collaborating with this new partner on a plan for the preservation of Ch'ëdädëk. This site has been a gathering place for our people for thousands of years and is an essential part of our culture and heritage. In creating a formal plan for Ch'ëdädëk, we will be guided by principles of good stewardship and knowledge passed down by our ancestors, ensuring the site is preserved to be enjoyed by generations to come.
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Ch’ëdähdëk (Forty Mile) est un site patrimonial et culturel important situé à 88 km en aval de Dawson, au confluent de la rivière Fortymile et du fleuve Yukon.
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Le site porte d’importantes traces matérielles de sa fréquentation à la fin de la préhistoire. On y trouve aussi des preuves archéologiques et des structures autoporteuses de la période contemporaine qui remontent jusqu’à 1886.
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Ch’ëdähdëk (Forty Mile) est l’un des 8 emplacements qui composent le site du patrimoine mondial de l’UNESCO Tr’ondëk-Klondike.
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La firme ERA Architects a été choisie pour diriger la conception et l’élaboration d’un plan de conservation qui présentera des options et des orientations pour l’avenir du site. La firme a déjà travaillé avec le gouvernement du Yukon, en 2022, sur l’examen de 16 sites historiques et patrimoniaux et la conception d’un cadre de priorisation pour leur gestion. Des représentants des gouvernements des Premières Nations, dont celles des Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in, de Champagne et d’Aishihik, ont participé directement à cet examen.
Elaine Corden
Director of Communications and Policy, Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in
867-993-7100 extension 136
elaine.corden@trondek.ca
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
Laura.Seeley@yukon.ca
Cameron Webber
Communications, Tourism and Culture
867-332-0400
cameron.webber@yukon.ca