Hay River Reserve

Katlodeeche First Nation
Hay River, NT
X0E 1G4
Tel: (867) 874-6701
Fax: (867) 874-3229
Email: hrdb@ssimicro.com
Chief Alec Sunrise

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The KFN is the key governing body of the Reserve, which is (52 sq miles) of land, it is on the South shore of the Great Slave Lake. The Reserve was established in 1974, the negotiations was done when Daniel Sonfrere was the chief. The Reserve is a vibrant and prosperous community with a Band Membership of 525 and on Reserve population of 270. Most of the residents are South Slavey Dene, who have occupied these lands for thousands of years. The Region is rich in Wildlife and Natural beauty. But, long before settlement of the (Anglican Mission, Church, Mission School, Roman Catholic, Trading Post and RCMP), the South Slavey Dene used the mouth of the river site for fish camp, taking advantage of the plenty fish runs, during fish seasons. People would camp out on the shores of Buffalo Lake, and are still using the traditional hunting land, Dene life heeded the rhythms of the land. They lived in harmony with the land and made good use of it’s needed resources.

Today, the KFN Reserve is a thriving community, by healing many wounds and by building a viable economic base for itself and for the future of their children.

The Reserve residents elect a Chief and four Councilors every two years (Election on Treaty Day), which govern their community with a vision and mission for their people. The KFN Organization is administered by the Band Administrator, who oversees the programs, services and the personnel, with the direction of the Band Council to bring positive results.

Since it’s inception, the KFN has been very successful in building an economic base, that ensures a brighter future for the Reserve. Ranging from retail in the form of Ehdah Cho Store (gas, cigarettes and groceries), Evergreen Forestry, Tu Cho Gha Contracting and Office leasing.

The Dene Cultural Institute, Nats’jee Keh Treatment Centre and Renewable Resources building are located on the Reserve.

The K’amba Carnival Committee organizes the annual winter activities, first weekend in March, the Reserve comes to life as people gather to celebrate spring and to compete in outdoor/indoor events, dog races and talent shows for all ages.