PRINCE GEORGE, B.C. – The David Douglas Botanical Garden Society (DDBGS), in partnership with the University of Northern British Columbia, unveiled the new Indigenous traditional name for the botanical garden during a special naming ceremony held June 26 at the Prince George campus.

The garden will now be known as Khasdzoon Yusk’ut (Khas̲•d̲z̲oon Yus̲•k'ut), which translates to Red Maple Hill Garden in the Carrier (Dakelh) language. The late Elder Edie Frederick, UNBC’s first Elder-in-Residence and a respected Lheidli T’enneh knowledge keeper, played a pivotal role in identifying the name Khasdzoon Yusk’ut. The name was bestowed in the spirit of connection, cultural recognition and community belonging and reflects the garden’s location, values and growing legacy as a space of shared stewardship and respect for the land. During the ceremony, a commemorative tree was planted in her honour by her son Jason Frederick.

“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 Fredrick,” 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 ceremony was attended by Elders, community members, volunteers and supporters. In addition to the name unveiling, the event featured reflections on the garden’s development, recognition of early contributors and a look ahead to Expansion Phase Two, which will 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 UNBC President Dr. 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.”

As the northernmost botanical garden in North America, Khasdzoon Yusk’ut offers a one-of-a-kind experience that blends cultural heritage with natural beauty. The renaming and ongoing development support regional tourism and contribute to Prince George’s growing identity as a year-round destination for visitors seeking Indigenous cultural experiences, sustainability-focused attractions and meaningful connections to place.

Khasdzoon Yusk’ut Botanical Garden stands as a symbol of cultural respect, environmental stewardship and community connection.