The David Douglas Botanical Garden Society, in partnership with the University of Northern British Columbia, has unveiled its new Indigenous name during a special naming ceremony held on campus.
The garden is now called Khasdzoon Yusk’ut, which translates to Red Maple Hill Garden in the Carrier (Dakelh) language.
The late Elder Edie Frederick, a respected knowledge keeper and UNBC’s first Elder-in-Residence, played a pivotal role in identifying the name.
During the ceremony on Thursday, June 26, a commemorative tree was planted in her honour by her son, Jason Frederick.
UNBC said the name reflects the spirit of connection, cultural recognition and community belonging, and aligns with the garden’s values as a space of shared stewardship.
“We are pleased to be able to reveal the name for the new garden, which was given to the society by the late Lheidli T’enneh Elder, Edie Frederick,” said Catriona McLenna, president of the David Douglas Botanical Garden Society. “This connection to the local First Nation will continue to be reflected in the future development of this garden.”
The garden and campus were filled with Elders, community members, volunteers and supporters for the event.
The ceremony also featured reflections on the garden’s development, recognition of early contributors and a look ahead to the second phase of its expansion.
Phase two is expected to further enhance the garden as a destination for ecological education, cultural exchange and environmental research.
“This naming ceremony is a reflection of what’s possible through meaningful partnership and shared purpose,” said former UNBC president Geoff Payne. “Khasdzoon Yusk’ut honours Indigenous language and connection to the land while deepening the relationships that guide UNBC’s work across the North."
