Recognizing W̱SÁNEĆ Elder ZȺWIZUT (Carl Olsen) for his defence of SELE₭TEȽ and leadership in upholding Douglas Treaty Rights to steward salmon

VICTORIA/UNCEDED lək̓ʷəŋən TERRITORIES — In recognition of his inspiring leadership and community engagement to protect SELE₭TEȽ (the Goldstream River) from imminent threat and ongoing colonial challenges, the Wilderness Committee the 2025 Eugene Rogers Environmental Award to W̱SÁNEĆ Elder ZȺWIZUT (Carl Olsen) on Saturday, May 30.

"Our responsibility is to protect the salmon, the waters and all living beings connected to this place, for the generations still to come." - Elder ZȺWIZUT (Carl Olsen)

For over three years ZȺWIZUT gathered community members at SELE₭TEȽ every Tuesday morning to build relationships with the land and to fight against the B.C. government’s proposed highway expansion. In early 2026 the province shelved the project and cancelled the $162M budget. This came after years of pushback and 400 people gathering on the legislature lawn protesting the project.

"SELE₭TEȽ is not just a river, it is a living relative that has sustained our people since time immemorial,” said ZȺWIZUT. “Our responsibility is to protect the salmon, the waters and all living beings connected to this place, for the generations still to come. This recognition belongs to everyone who came together to care for the land and our Treaty Rights.”

The Eugene Rogers Environmental Award recognizes individuals whose grassroots leadership has made a significant contribution to environmental protection and social justice in British Columbia. ZȺWIZUT’s work has brought together Indigenous land defenders, scientists, youth, elders and local residents in a movement grounded in Douglas Treaty Rights and care for the watershed.

“ZȺWIZUT’s leadership reminds us that environmental protection is inseparable from Indigenous sovereignty and community stewardship,” said Forest Campaigner Tobyn Neame. “Week after week, rain or shine, he has created a space where people can learn, organize and reconnect with the responsibility to protect salmon habitat. His persistence and generosity inspired a movement that helped stop a destructive highway expansion project.”

This year marks the 34th anniversary of the Eugene Rogers Environmental Award. The Wilderness Committee presents it each year, accompanied by a $1,000 contribution, to individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to protecting the environment and fostering societal change. 

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For more information, please contact:

ZȺWIZUT Carl Olsen | W̱SÁNEĆ Elder and Land Defender 
carlolsen2@hotmail.com

Tobyn Neame | Forest Campaigner, Wilderness Committee 
tobyn@wildernesscommittee.org