Tsútswecw

Tsútswecw Provincial Park, formerly known as Roderick Haig-Brown Provincial Park, is located in the interior of British Columbia along a scenic stretch of the Adams River. The park covers approximately 1,088 hectares and is world-renowned for its spectacular sockeye salmon runs, particularly during dominant years when millions of fish return to spawn. The park's name honors the Secwepemc people's connection to this important salmon-bearing river.

The park's wildlife community revolves largely around the Adams River and its legendary salmon runs. During spawning season, sockeye salmon transform the river into a spectacular display of nature. This abundance attracts black bears and grizzly bears who feast on the salmon. Bald eagles congregate in large numbers, feeding on spawning and spent salmon. Year-round residents include mule deer, black-tailed deer, coyotes, and smaller mammals like mink and river otters.

The park protects diverse plant communities typical of BC's interior transition zone. Douglas-fir dominates the upland forests, mixed with ponderosa pine in drier areas and western redcedar in moister sites near the river. The understory includes Oregon grape, snowberry, and kinnikinnick. The riverbanks feature extensive stands of black cottonwood, willow, and red-osier dogwood, creating important riparian habitat.

The Adams River flows through a valley shaped by ancient glaciation and ongoing fluvial processes. The bedrock consists primarily of metamorphic and igneous rocks from the Shuswap Metamorphic Complex, some of the oldest exposed rocks in British Columbia. During the last ice age, massive glaciers carved the valley and connected lake basins. The river continues to reshape its channel through erosion and deposition, creating gravel bars that provide ideal salmon spawning habitat.

The park experiences a transitional climate between coastal and continental patterns, with warm, dry summers and cool winters with moderate snowfall. Summer temperatures typically range from 20-30°C. Winter temperatures usually stay between -5°C and 5°C. The salmon spawning season in October typically features cool, clear fall weather, ideal for viewing.

The Adams River has been a vital resource for the Secwepemc people for thousands of years, with salmon forming a cornerstone of their culture, economy, and spirituality. Traditional fishing sites along the river were used seasonally, with elaborate drying and preservation methods. Recognition of Indigenous connections led to the park's renaming to Tsútswecw, honoring the Secwepemc heritage.

The park was established in 1977, initially named after conservationist Roderick Haig-Brown, recognizing the need to protect the Adams River salmon run. In 2018, the park was renamed Tsútswecw to honor the Secwepemc people's enduring connection to the river and salmon. The park has become a premier destination for witnessing natural salmon migration.

The park's primary attraction is the spectacular salmon run, particularly during dominant years when millions of sockeye return to spawn. Wheelchair-accessible viewing platforms and trails allow close observation of spawning salmon. The park features several kilometers of trails along the river. Interpretive signs explain salmon biology, life cycles, and ecosystem importance.

Tsútswecw Provincial Park is accessed via a short drive from Highway 1, located approximately 5 kilometers north of Squilax. Facilities include accessible viewing platforms, vault toilets, picnic areas, and extensive trail networks. During dominant salmon run years, special facilities and shuttle services are often provided. The nearest services are available in Salmon Arm or Chase.

BC Parks manages Tsútswecw with primary focus on protecting the Adams River salmon runs and supporting ecosystems. Strict regulations prohibit fishing within the park. Visitor management strategies prevent trampling of spawning areas. The park works closely with fisheries managers and Indigenous communities to monitor salmon populations and ensure conservation measures are effective.