The Nacho Nyak Dun have lived and trapped throughout the northeast Yukon and Mayo Area for generations. The First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun is affiliated with the Northern Tutchone Council. Calculations generated by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada in 2004 for their internal purposes estimated the registered population of the FNNND at 460. Although a significant number of the First Nation's members live in the Mayo area, some live in other communities and outside the Territory. A large number of First Nations people living in the area are registered to other Yukon First Nations or other First Nations in Canada. First Nations' calculations of their population numbers may differ from Government of Canada figures and may include registered beneficiaries, non-beneficiary citizens and others.
The Nacho Nyak Dun are culturally affiliated with the Northern Tutchone people of the Selkirk First Nation and the Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation. Northern Tutchone is a member of the Athapaskan language family. Some members of the Nacho Nyak Dun trace their ancestry to the Gwich'in people to the north and Mackenzie people to the east. The name "Nacho Nyak Dun" means "big river people."
Since earliest times, the people lived on the land, using the rich supply of game animals, fish, birds and vegetation in the area. They travelled throughout their traditional territory throughout the year. The people of the area followed a traditional moiety system of Crow and Wolf. The oral history of the Nacho Nyak Dun reveals early contacts and trade relationships with explorers and traders in the area. The First Nation have readily adapted to the dramatic changes of the last several decades, as mining interests and settlement expanded in the area and transportation routes were built. Many people found employment in the mines and in road maintenance; others maintained a traditional life on the land.
Along with three other First Nations, the Nacho Nyak Dun signed their land claims and self-government agreements in 1993. The agreements came into effect in 1995. The FNNND was actively involved in land claims negotiations throughout the years and often played a decisive role in shaping the process. Under their Final Agreement, the FNNND are an important contributor to the establishment and management of the Ddhaw Ghro Special Management Area. The agreement also led to the designation of the Bonnet Plume River as a Canadian Heritage River. Since signing their Final Agreement, the First Nation government has implemented a number of local economic and social initiatives. The Nacho Nyak Dun Corporation is establishing a number of training, work and apprenticeship programs in the community. The First Nation is working toward participation in land developments in their traditional territory to safeguard the environment and ensure appropriate and orderly development. The First Nation government employs 59 people.
The Social Programs department of the FNNND has been taking new directions in community and individual healing through an intense cultural revival that includes language and traditional crafts programs, back-to-the-land activities, fish camps, hunting, and school programs. On an annual Wellness Day, people celebrate their culture, visit and share with community members and visitors.
