Clint Gabriel and Dean Schreiber patrol the reserve, monitor the environment and alert members of potential threats
Since its inception in 2016, the Penticton Indian Band’s Guardian Program has evolved from a land-monitoring initiative to a service that aims to provide safety and security for the entire community.
James Pepper, the director of PIB’s Natural Resources Department, said that the program initially started as a way to restore and enhance areas on the reserve that were sensitive in nature, had species at risk or species of cultural significance. “We don’t just take everyone’s belongings and take them to the dump,” he said. “Even if they haven’t vacated in 24 hours, and they have what are clearly belongings there – and not garbage – we wait.”
“Community tells us what they want,” said Pepper. “Right now, it’s evolved to a security program. But it also does a whole host of other things.” Gabriel said that band members will often send tips about potential threats in the area to help get the word out.