Crystal McMaster

Hello, my name is Crystal McMaster, and I proudly serve as the Administrative Director at the Nicola Watershed Governance Partnership.

I am originally from Nkmaplqs/Head of the Lake (OKIB) near Vernon and have been a resident of the Lower Nicola Band community for the past 30 years. My heritage is a blend of Syilx, Nlaka’pamux, and French ancestry, providing me with a rich and diverse perspective.

Since the establishment of NWGP in 2019, I have been deeply involved in collaborating with provincial partners to advance co-management and co-governance over water in the drought-prone Nicola Watershed. My passion for creativity and continuous learning drives me to infuse knowledge into project development, while also raising awareness of the crucial importance of land and water connection, protection, and sustainability for First Nations people. I deeply value the significance of understanding our roots and the interconnectedness with the land and water that sustain our traditional ways of life. Guided by the teachings passed down by yéyeʔs and stəmtimaʔs (grandmothers), I emphasize the reciprocal relationship with the land and waters that have nurtured Indigenous communities for generations.

My commitment to preserving Indigenous heritage and advocating for environmental stewardship is at the heart of NWGP's mission, and I'm honored to play a role in this important work.