The first annual Columbia Salmon Festival wrapped up Saturday, October 1 with an afternoon of ceremonies and festivities in James Chabot Park.

The four-day festival featured environmental field trips, a charity golf tournament, a gala dinner and art exhibitions.

On Saturday, participants celebrated the unveiling of a new monument at Chabot park dedicated to the Chinook Salmon (right), which  has disappeared from Upper Columbia Valley.

The festival, which was hosted by the Shuswap Indian Band and the Akisqnuk First Nation, aims to educate the public about the history of salmon in the Columbia Valley region and its importance to First Nations — as well as restorative efforts taking place today and in the future.