NWPR: Columbia River treaty tribes keep their traditions alive

Monday, March 5, 2012  

"Columbia River Indian tribes are keeping their ancient traditions alive in the coming weeks with ceremonies to open their spring fisheries. Predictions of strong salmon runs are giving the tribes extra reason to celebrate.

To get to the Dallesport Treaty Access Fishing Site, you have to drive through town and wind down a bumpy gravel road. Eventually you’ll end up on the banks of the Columbia River. This time of year the fishery is quiet – some sturgeon swim through the waters.

Tribal fishermen will soon begin to prepare for the First Salmon Feast a few weeks down the road. It’s one of the most culturally significant ceremonies for Pacific Northwest Tribes.

“To give thanks for the gifts that our creator gave to us, placed us here for our use and benefit. We give thanks to him for all of those things.”"

Get the Story:
Ceremonial Fisheries Culturally Important to NW Tribes (Northwest Public Radio 3/5)