In 1993, the museum commissioned an engineering consultant and a wood scientist to examine the two Haida houses and the 10 poles that make up the village.
They found signs of rot, insect infestation and decay, and said the structures would likely not survive an earthquake.
Widely regarded as the finest collection of outdoor sculptures of its kind in the world, the village features work by Northwest Coast First Nations artists such as Bill Reid, Doug Cranmer, Norman Tait, Walter Harris, Jim Hart and the late Mungo Martin.
More than a million visitors have seen the houses and poles since they were installed in 1961.
Reid conceived the Totem Village as a gathering place for the celebration of the achievements of First Nations people. Many ceremonies, carving workshops, and public and educational programs have been held there. The village has also been an inspiration to other First Nations artists.
A campaign to raise $600,000 to repair and enhance the village has begun with a $125,000 gift from the Royal Bank.
The donation includes commissioning a welcome figure by Musqueam artist Susan Point and a new frontal pole by Haida artist Don Yeomans. The new poles will be erected in March 1997 as part of Royal Bank's celebration of its 100th anniversary in B.C.
Point is one of B.C.'s foremost First Nations artists and her work can be found in private and corporate collections in more than 20 countries. Yeomans is a prominent Haida artist who has worked with Reid on several projects including the sculpture, The Spirit of Haida Gwaii.
The original frontal poles on the Haida houses were carved by Reid and are too fragile to remain outdoors. They will be brought into the museum where they will be on permanent display, adding to the museum's comprehensive collection of Reid art.
The village's eight free-standing poles show the coast's range of artistic styles. To prevent further deterioration and damage from seismic shock each will be treated and remounted.
The Haida houses will also be repaired. Their roof beams will be replaced by beams pressure-treated to resist fungus and rot.
Improved landscaping, outdoor lighting and new paths will improve access, particularly for persons with disabilities.
Matching funds from UBC's President's Fund will go to a new First Nations Studies Endowment at UBC, to enhance the teaching of First Nations issues and eventually enable students to pursue a degree major in First Nations Studies.