Ground Blessing at Oliphant Lake Ahead of Malahat Nation Dam Upgrades

On October 20, Elder May Sam and her son Scott Sam blessed the ground at Oliphant Lake on southern Vancouver Island, marking a meaningful occasion as Malahat Nation prepares for the next phase of the Oliphant Lake Dam Upgrade Project.

Elder May Sam conducts a ground blessing beside the Oliphant Lake dam, accompanied by another attendee on Malahat Nation territory.
Elder May Sam conducts a ground blessing at Oliphant Lake on October 20, 2026, ahead of the Malahat Nation-led dam upgrades.

Located within Malahat Nation territory, Oliphant Lake is a natural and cultural feature that supports local ecosystems and surrounding communities. The existing dam requires upgrades to address structural concerns, improve long-term safety, and support reservoir-level management and water releases. The project will also help reduce flood risk to downstream lands and communities.

Barkley Project Group contributes technical capacity through Malahat Barkley Projects Ltd., a majority Malahat Nation-owned company providing Design-Build Management services for the project.

Scott Sam holds a drum beside the existing Oliphant Lake dam, with the reservoir and surrounding forest in the background.
Scott Sam participates in the October 20, 2026 ground blessing ceremony at Oliphant Lake, ahead of the Malahat Nation-led dam upgrades.

The blessing honours the lake’s significance to the community as the project team continues preparations under Malahat Nation’s leadership.

Group of eleven people gathered for a photograph beside the Oliphant Lake dam, with the reservoir and surrounding forest visible.
Participants gather at Oliphant Lake for the October 20, 2026 ground blessing ceremony ahead of the Malahat Nation-led dam upgrade project.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Elder May Sam and Scott Sam for conducting the ground blessing and marking this important occasion.