Historically, they were seasonally migrant people, who would converge on their creek fishing grounds at least twice a year to spearfish from their canoes by torchlight, to harvest and dry the fish that would sustain them during the winter months. They recognized water for its life-giving properties and powers to create and destroy, viewing water as the life blood of mother earth. They recognized the gentleness of water as it protected the unborn child in the womb of its mother. This differed from the views of settlers arriving during the treaty making period of 1781-1820, who viewed it as something inanimate– a commodity to be used to drive mills and harvest salmon, and a place to dump refuse. During this time, the Mississauga's gradually became alienated from the waters of their territory and their holistic view of water and harmony was swept away in the name of "civilization" and "progress".  

The Mississauga's and settler society are now on a path to reconciliation with environmental stewardship being a joint concern. The spirit of reconciliation can be nurtured by both groups focusing their attention to restoring a respectful, harmonious, and grateful relationship with water. Today, the Mississauga's of the New Credit First Nation rejoice in a culture that is both thriving, and on the rise, retaining strong ties to their traditional territory.