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In a world increasingly aware of the delicate balance between human activity and nature, Rylan Tsuji is a passionate steward of the water. As a Marine Operations Supervisor for the Port Authority in Prince Rupert, British Columbia and a proud Ts'msyen member of the Metlakatla First Nation, Rylan embodies a deep-rooted connection to family, culture, and environmental responsibility. Through his work with conservation organizations and the wisdom passed down through his lineage, he demonstrates that stewardship is more than a duty—it's a legacy. One that he is eager to pass on to his two-year-old son, Luwi, and future generations.
As part of his role at the Port Authority, Rylan assists with their Environmental Department’s initiatives, working alongside organizations like Ocean Wise and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to monitor marine life, track sound levels for marine mammals, and combat invasive species like the green crab.
As Canada’s third busiest port, Rylan and his team also abide by and enforce the Marine Mammal Regulations. "Certain times of the year, we have tons of humpbacks in the harbour," says Rylan. "Sometimes container ships sit idle to ensure that we don't have a whale strike; that's a big part of our restrictions."
- Preparation for a day out in the Men's Taku Waterproof Jacket
Rylan's dedication to environmental responsibility extends beyond his job. Teachings passed down through generations—and teasing from his father-in-law—shape his personal philosophy.
"Once, when I brought home six spring salmon, he jokingly told me I have to think about my grandkids," he says.
While the advice is given in jest, it underscores a serious commitment: take only what you need to preserve the ecosystem for future generations. For Rylan, this balance between providing for his family and protecting the environment is key to ensuring Luwi and the generations to come can share the same connection to the water that he cherishes.
In the Sm'algya̱x, the Ts'msyen language, the names of the months are based on what they are harvesting at that time. For example, October is the time for harvesting cockles and is called Ha'lila̱xsig̱a̱boox. Ha’li (time for) si (to harvest) g̱a̱boox (cockles.)
Rylan grew up with seasonal rounds, as this calendar system is called, as a way of life and a connection to the water his grandfather nurtured early on. Rylan and his brother spent countless days on the boat with his grandfather, listening to him say, "One day, I'll be sitting on the porch with my coffee, watching you two go out on your own, using all the lessons I taught you." Whether jumping rock-to-slippery-rock to harvest seaweed in May (Ha'lila̱xsiła̱'a̱sk) or gillnetting for sockeye salmon in July (Ha'lila̱xsimisoo), his teachings were abundant. Now, what Rylan had dismissed as a joke in his youth has become a reality. "My grandpa has done his time, and now he's happy to sit at home while we bring back the fish."
- Rylan out for a day of crabbing in Men's Taku Waterproof Jacket and HIT Hydrostatic Inflatable PFD
In many ways, Rylan's story comes full circle. The lessons passed down from his grandfather now guide his own journey as a steward of the water. Whether he's working alongside conservation organizations or sharing the joys of the sea with his young son, Rylan remains deeply committed to preserving the waters that have shaped his life and heritage. As he honours the stewardship Indigenous communities have maintained since time immemorial, Rylan ensures that future generations—including Luwi—will inherit not just a responsibility but a deep and abiding connection to the water, family, and tradition.
Author: Danielle Baker
