With deep respect and gratitude, I acknowledge the leadership, guidance, and generosity that made this book possible.
I firstly thank Chief Bonnie Adolph, the Council and Elders of the Cayoose Creek Indian Band (Sekw’el’was), Lillooet, British Columbia, for their trust and formal collaboration. Our Collaboration Agreement (April 25, 2024) established the framework for a respectful, ethical partnership between the community and myself as the compiler and editor, Natasha Ramroop Singh, and it has guided every step of this work. Chief Bonnie has always been warm, welcoming and supportive, and her visionary leadership is reflected in her appreciation of this collaborative resource. A very special thank you to the following Elders who always were willing to give of their time and knowledge – without their support, this resource would not be possible: Elder Wayne Redan, Elder Marilyn Bob, Elder Sharon Frank, Elder Linda Francis, Elder Beatrice Williams, Elder Shirley La Rochelle and Elder Fidele Henry.
I am grateful to Splitrock Environmental, with special thanks to Odin Scholz (Senior Biologist) and Courtney Andrews (Nursery Manager). Odin and Courtney were my primary points of contact with the Nursery and generously shared their expertise, time, and care. Their access, practical support, and infectious commitment to community-centered stewardship were indispensable.
My sincere thanks to the community members of Cayoose Creek who participated in open forums, workshops, and meetings. Your knowledge of plants, as foods and as medicines, was shared with humility and purpose. This resource exists because of your willingness to teach and to preserve knowledge for future generations.
I offer heartfelt thanks to my former student, Abu Harera Nadeem (BSc., Thompson Rivers University, 2024) and former Health Manager of the Cayoose Creek Band. Abu’s initiative and steadfast support introduced me to the Chief, Council, and Management Team and helped finalize the Collaboration Agreement in 2024. Without his efforts, this project would not have taken shape.
I also thank my former students and research assistants—Megan Hanks, Sepideh Mansoori, and Simranjit Kaur, for their careful work in gathering, writing, and compiling materials. Your diligence and integrity strengthened the quality and clarity of this book.
Finally, I am grateful to the Thompson Rivers University Open Press, with special appreciation to Dani Collins, Jessica Obando Almache, Marie Bartlett, and Brenna Clarke Gray for funding, media production, and technical support that enabled this project to move from idea to publication.
This work is offered in the spirit of reciprocity. Any errors or omissions are my own. Knowledge shared here remains rooted in community: the rights, stories, and stewardship of Sekw’el’was continue to guide how this material is used and taught.
Compiler and Editor: Natasha Ramroop Singh
