DRFN is one of four Dane-zaa communities of the Peace River, also referred to as the Beaver People. John and the surrounding area.
We are the traditional people of the land now referred to as Fort St.
08/28/2025
Our people have always been guided by Dreamers.
Dreamers were spiritual leaders who received songs in their sleep. These songs guide how we live, connect to the land, and care for each other.
Our Doig River drummers carry those songs forward. Every beat of the drum beat and song is the voice of our Dreamers, passed down from elders to youth.
Today the Doig River drummers includes both respected elders and new drummers as young as 13, all working together to keep the Dreamer songs alive for the generations to come.
When you hear our drums, you are hearing the spirit of the Dreamers. 🌙
Freddy Askoty Garry Oker Traill Acko Levi Davis Maxem Bachnick Jack Askoty Ross Askoty Sam Acko Carl Pouce Coupe Trevor Makadahay
08/20/2025
🌟 Walking the Path of Justice: First Nations Court Conference 2025 🌟
🎤Speaker Reveal: The Honourable Marion Buller
We are proud to announce that The Honourable Marion Buller will be joining us as a featured speaker at this year’s conference.✨
A member of the Mistawasis Nehiyawak, a Cree First Nation in Saskatchewan, Ms. Buller is a pioneering force in Canadian law. She made history as the first First Nations woman appointed as a judge in any level of British Columbia courts, founding and presiding over BC’s first Indigenous Court in New Westminster and building the foundation for the province’s first Indigenous Family Court.
With over two decades on the BC Provincial Court, Ms. Buller went on to serve as Chief Commissioner for the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, Canada’s first truly national inquiry. Her leadership set new legal precedents and brought international attention to the Final Report and Calls for Justice.
She has returned to legal practice with Miller Titerle and serves as Chancellor of the University of Victoria. Ms. Buller is also a former Director and President of the Indigenous Bar Association and has championed Indigenous and human rights across numerous organizations and platforms.
In recognition of her impact, she has received multiple awards, including Honourary Doctor of Laws degrees from Thompson Rivers University and Lakehead University, and in 2022, was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada.✨
Day 1 - November 19, 2025
🗣️ Keynote Topic - A Day in Indigenous Court
⚖️ Her story is one of courage, leadership, and transformative justice.🧠
🎟️ Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a trailblazer. 💫
08/19/2025
🌿 Exciting news! The First Nations Court Conference 2025 is now extended to 2.5 days.
📅 November 19–21, 2025
📍 Ovintiv Events Centre, Dawson Creek
More speakers, more discussions, more opportunities to connect. Website launching soon!
08/15/2025
The next two weeks are a traditional gathering time for Doig River First Nation. 🌿
This past week at Moose Camp, we were proud to see one of our youth members harvest a moose for their family. This moment filled our hearts and will help feed our people.
Moose hunting is a traditional activity of the Dane Zaa peoples, passed down from generation to generation. It is a living example of how the rights of Indigenous peoples are upheld, as knowledge is shared and taught to keep our culture thriving.
Together, we celebrate our successes, learn and share our culture, and work side by side to prepare for the seasons ahead. ❤️
As summer winds down, may the fall bring your family warmth, smiles, and memories to carry for years to come.
Doig River First Nation
08/15/2025
✨ Calling all Indigenous Artists! ✨
Doig River First Nation is excited to share that we have limited vendor tables available for the Walking the Path of Justice: First Nations Court Conference 2025.
This is your chance to:
🎨 Connect with community
🧵 Share your beautiful creations
💬 Be part of a powerful event focused on justice and healing
📅 Deadline to apply: September 23, 2025
📍 Vendor spots are limited — only 10 available!
Let’s fill the space with art, culture, and stories that inspire.
For more information or to secure your table, contact 778-715-9697.
08/05/2025
Today, the Doig River First Nation Lands Governance Committee and Elders toured DRFN urban reserve lands in Fort St. John and the Old Fort, including a stop at our new gas station at Naache Commons! This project is a proud example of how DRFN is building a strong, self-sustaining economy—rooted in Dane-zaa values and led by Doig people.
Our project at Naache Commons is financed by the First Nations Bank of Canada with the support of the Canada Infrastructure Bank/ Banque de l'infrastructure du Canada Indigenous Land Development program.
Thanks to the First Nations Land Management Act (FNLMA), DRFN has opted out of the land-related sections of the Indian Act and now governs our lands through our own Land Code. This community-developed legal framework gives us the authority to make decisions about land use, development, and environmental stewardship—without needing federal approval.
Our Land Code empowers us to pursue on-reserve commercial development like Naache Commons, creating jobs, generating revenue, and supporting long-term prosperity for our Nation. It’s a powerful tool for economic self-determination, allowing us to shape a future that reflects our culture, priorities, and vision.
We’re proud to have community members actively involved in implementing and managing our Land Code. Their leadership ensures our lands are governed with care, wisdom, and purpose.
Today’s tour was a celebration of progress, pride, and possibility. Guided by our Elders and driven by our community, DRFN continues to lead the way in Indigenous land governance and economic development.
08/02/2025
Wow! What an amazing turnout at the Doig River Rodeo this weekend! 🎉🐎
A huge thank you to everyone who continues to make the Doig River Rodeo happen! This weekend would not have been possible without the hardworking planners and staff on the ground, you make this event truly amazing!
You all rock! 🙌
📸 Photo courtesy of Amanda Rose Gauthier
07/31/2025
🌱 DRFN Community Garden: Growing Together, Nourishing Our Elders 🥕🍓
We're proud to celebrate the beautiful growth of our Doig River First Nation Community Garden, lovingly championed by our Home Care Attendant Jenn C. and supported by our hardworking Career and College Prep students and summer student team.
This garden is more than just a space—it's a living example of local food sovereignty, healthy eating, and community care. It provides fresh produce like carrots, strawberries, beets, and zucchini, and offers a moment of joy and nourishment for our Elders who enjoy the fruits of this shared effort. Elders Margaret Davis and Sam Acko were enjoying the fresh vegetables this afternoon.
Every harvest brings us closer to self-reliance, well-being, and connection to the land.
Wuujo asanalaa to everyone involved for planting not just food—but love, learning, and legacy. 🌿
07/30/2025
🌿 Community Spotlight: Moig Flats Development 🌿
We’re proud to celebrate the incredible work of Tracker Contracting and Big Creek Services, two Doig River member-owned businesses, for their leadership in creating community access and site development at Moig Flats a cherished traditional gathering area for our people.
This project is more than just infrastructure, it's a powerful step toward cultural revitalization and community connection. By improving access to Moig Flats, these businesses are helping ensure that our traditions, stories, and gatherings continue to thrive for generations to come.
👏 A huge thank you to Wes Rothlisbergerand Ferlin Makadahayfor your dedication to supporting community cultural development and for showing how Indigenous-owned businesses can lead with purpose and pride. Healing the land and healing the people!
07/29/2025
🔧 Supporting Doig-Owned Business 🔧
Doig River is proud to recognize Dustin and Ashley Kucher of Dark Arc Welding, a Doig member-owned business, for their work on community development projects like the construction of community gates and fences.
By supporting local entrepreneurs like Ashley and Dustin, we’re building a stronger Doig River economy—one that creates jobs, builds skills, and keeps investment in the community.
Wuujo asanalaa for your hard work and commitment!
07/28/2025
🌟 Walking the Path of Justice: First Nations Court Conference 2025 🌟
🎤Speaker Reveal: Graham A. Kay
Crown Prosecutor | Indigenous Court Advocate | Community Justice Leader
We are proud to announce Graham A. Kay as a featured speaker at this year’s conference.🌟
Graham is a lawyer based in Terrace, BC, where he currently serves as a Crown Prosecutor. With over 20 years of experience in Criminal, Family, and Child Protection law across British Columbia, he brings deep expertise and unwavering commitment to justice and community.
For the past 14 years, Graham has worked with all six Indigenous Courts in Regions 4 and 5, as a developer, trainer, Defence Counsel, Duty Counsel, and now Crown Counsel. He has been a guest presenter on Indigenous courts at Thompson Rivers University Law School, Coast Mountain College, the RCMP, Band Councils, Restorative Justice agencies, and numerous community gatherings.
Graham has also delivered training to child protection and Aboriginal agencies, presented at Continuing Legal Education Society events, and serves as a member of the BC Prosecution Service Resource Group for Indigenous Courts.
Before law, Graham spent 20 years in health and social services, working in Alberta, Ontario, and Northwestern BC. He holds degrees from the University of British Columbia (BA), Carleton University (MSW), and the University of Alberta (LLB).
🎵 When he’s not in court or the community, Graham is an avid musician who enjoys scuba diving and golf.🏌️🤿
Day 1 - November 19, 2025
🗣️ Keynote Topic - Building Trust Together: Community Driven BC Indigenous Court Model
🌟 Why should you attend?
If you’re passionate about justice reform, Indigenous legal systems, or community-based advocacy, Graham’s insights and lived experience will be a powerful and practical addition to your professional toolkit.
07/28/2025
Gymkhana is happening Friday, August 1
Start time is 11:00 AM and we'll have a barbecued lunch on-site.
We've got a full lineup of games and events. It’s always a good time, and we’d love to see you there.
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Doig River First Nation (DRFN) is one of four Dane-zaa (sometimes referred to as Beaver Indian) communities of the Peace River area of northeastern British Columbia and Alberta. Our nation’s population is just over 300 people and our members reside on and off reserve.
Today, DRFN members participate in the modern economy while practicing their language, culture and traditions. DRFN is undergoing a transformation period in the community’s organizational development with the conclusion of Treaty Land Entitlement (TLE) and other outstanding claims. Continued resource development within DRFN’s territory and recent Impact and Benefits agreements have positioned DRFN to experience unprecedented cultural, economic and social development opportunities. The community is engaged in a range of economic initiatives that are focused on strengthening the economic base, while improving the health and wellness of the community.
In July of 2003, DRFN opened their Administrative Complex at IR #206. This facility includes a museum, gym, health care and administration offices. In 2020, DRFN is opening a new cultural, spiritual, health and wellness facility. This new space will house an Elder’s lounge, Aboriginal Head Start program, a spiritual gathering place and counseling office. DRFN will be constructing a new, outdoor Tea Dance Circle in the cultural grounds. Doig River is also home to a rodeo facility that hosts the annual Doig River Rodeo.
Location:
Doig River First Nation (DRFN) is located in northeastern British Columbia, approximately 70 km northeast of the City of Fort St. John. The main reserve is situated on approximately 2500 acres of land and the Nation holds several fee simple parcels of land in and near IR #206. DRFN is a proud nation of northeastern Dane-zaa peoples from British Columbia and Alberta.
DRFN’s traditional hunting and trapping grounds include vast areas that extend in all directions from the current reserve Iat Hanás̱ Saahgéʔ (Doig River). IR’s #206 and #204 were established in 1952 and the surrounding area is rich in natural resources that include major oil and gas deposits and boreal forest.
