Cemetery Planning

About the Project

‘Na̱mg̱is First Nation is developing a Cemetery Plan to guide the respectful care, use, and future planning of cemeteries under Nation control. The plan is intended to support organized, culturally appropriate cemetery management for current and future generations.

This work is being supported by external consultants and is shaped by community input gathered through engagement sessions and surveys. Feedback shared by members helps inform draft concepts and next steps toward a final Cemetery Plan.

Cemeteries Included in the Plan

The Cemetery Plan includes the following cemeteries, each with unique history, conditions, and needs:

  • Old ‘Na̱mg̱is Cemetery
  • ‘Na̱mg̱is (Wood St.) Cemetery
  • Gatu Road Cemetery (Anglican Cemetery)

Community Engagement

Community engagement is a key part of the Cemetery Planning process. Members have been invited to share feedback, priorities, and concerns related to cemetery care, access, cultural considerations, and future improvements.

Past Engagement Sessions

  • October 6, 2025 – Community forum where members shared initial feedback to help inform draft concepts.
  • January 14, 2026 (Forum #2) – Community forum where draft cemetery concepts were presented and additional feedback was gathered.

Feedback from these sessions, along with survey responses, will help guide revisions and the development of the final Cemetery Plan.

Forum #2 – Draft Cemetery Concepts (January 2026)

In January 2026, ‘Na̱mg̱is First Nation hosted Community Forum #2 as part of the Cemetery Planning Project. During this forum, draft concept plans were presented for each cemetery to show possible layouts, access improvements, and future interment options.

These concepts were shared for discussion and feedback only and do not represent final decisions. Community input will help inform revisions before the final Cemetery Plan is completed.

‘Na̱mg̱is (Wood St.) Cemetery – Draft Concept

Draft Concept Objectives

  • Extend the lifespan of the cemetery by optimizing the lot layout
  • Create an organized family plot layout that allows families to reserve lots
  • Offer a range of interment options, including cremation burial and columbarium niches
  • Establish a clear cemetery boundary that defines the sacred space
  • Enhance the overall landscape through thoughtful tree planting

Gatu Road Cemetery – Draft Concept

Draft Concept Objectives

  • Create a cemetery layout that will serve the community for 50+ years
  • Create an organized family plot layout that allows families to reserve lots
  • Offer a range of interment options, including cremation burial and columbarium niches
  • Establish a clear cemetery boundary that defines the sacred space
  • Maintain existing landscape character and protect areas with possible unmarked graves

Old ‘Na̱mg̱is Cemetery – Draft Concept

Draft Concept Objectives

  • Establish a clear cemetery boundary that defines the sacred space
  • Provide an information kiosk with interpretive signage on appropriate cemetery behaviour
  • Enhance the cemetery landscape with meadow planting and perimeter planting

About the Precedent Images

The Forum #2 materials include precedent images to help illustrate possible approaches to amenities such as memorial walls, columbaria, fencing, gates, and signage.

These images are examples only and do not represent final designs, materials, or cultural decisions. Community feedback will guide what elements, if any, are appropriate to include in the final Cemetery Plan.

Project Documents & Resources

The following documents are shared to support transparency and informed community participation:

Additional documents, such as engagement summaries or revised draft materials, will be added as they become available.

Staying Informed

Updates on the Cemetery Planning project will be shared through official ‘Na̱mg̱is communication channels:

Members are encouraged to follow these channels for future updates and engagement opportunities.