One of the first modern lodges of indigenous people in the northern hemisphere, Cree Village Eco Lodge in Canada showcases the culture of the MoCreebec community in an eco-friendly environment By Sudipta Dev
Cree Village Eco Lodge is located far north in Ontario, at the southern point of James Bay. It is a remote location on a small island by the Moose River. The area has population of 3000 people, 90 per cent of whom are the First Nation community of MoCreebec who take care of the lodge. Those who visit have a first hand experience of a First Nation culture. The lodge is eco friendly, with minimum impact on the environment. “We run our property responsibly in terms of environmental impact. The products are either organically grown eco friendly or made of high levels of recyclable materials,” says Todd D Haynes, general manager, Cree Village Eco Lodge.
Effort is being made so that natural vegetation returns to the environment around the hotel. “We are not maintaining lawns. We are setting up hydroponic gardens, composting a community garden all to try and keep our carbon footprint to the minimum,” mentions Haynes.
The food served is a part of the culinary legacy of the Cree people. The aboriginal menu comprises of products that also supports other indigenous communities. It includes pure maple syrup, free-range bison, herbs and vegetables, etc. Vegetarian dishes are also offered. The coffee served is organically grown and free-trade. The dining room is a representative of traditional shaapuhtuwaan, which means a “long teepee with doors at each end.”
Moose Cree First Nation Tourism Unit looks after all the tourism activities. The local people want to share their culture with the visitors. “There is a staff house which is like a museum on the island. There is also Cree Culture Interpretive Centre. Local crafts are sold there. Every First Nation community is different in Canada. Visitors get to know about aboriginal community school,” says Paula, a representative of the tourism office. Activities include fishing trips and boat tours.