Lunch & Learn, July 2026, Colville Tribe Conservation Work

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7/29/2026 Lunch & Learn - "From Time Immemorial to Today: Reciprocity-based Conservation in Action."

Chelan-Douglas Land (CDLT) hosted another Lunch & Learn event, bringing CDLT members together for an engaging and informative conversation on land conservation.

Thank you to everyone who joined us-we’re grateful for your time and participation. For those who were unable to attend, the presentation details and resources are shared below.

About the Presentation: Many people know tribes have a deep connection to the land, but fewer understand that tribal governments operate some of the most sophisticated conservation programs in the region. This conversation explores how the Colville Tribes are restoring habitat, managing wildlife, protecting native plants, and share common land protection goals with CDLT.

Presenter Bio:  John Sirois - say' ay' (pronounced Sigh Eye) say' ay' is a citizen of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation and is of the respective Okanagan, Methow and Wenatchi Tribes. say’ay’ was born and raised on the Colville Indian Reservation in Omak, WA. John carries cultural teachings and histories from his grandmother and extended family that tie him to the lands and waters of the greater Okanogan and Wenatchee Valley regions. John earned degrees from Dartmouth College (History, and Native American Studies) and Master of Public Administration at the University of Washington. He worked for over 20 years in the Colville Tribes’ government as former Council Chair and representative, and he also led departments that focused on tribal lands, cultural preservation and revitalization, economic development, renewable energy project development, policy development, governance. John currently serves as the Traditional Territory Advisor for the Colville Confederated Tribes advocating for the Indigenous rights to ensure that those rights are fully respected. He harvests Chinook salmon at the Icicle every year and can be seen there every spring. He seeks to build a better future for all for generations to come. You can find say’ay’ camping, hunting, hiking, reading and salmon fishing with his family.

Here are the resources from the event: