B.C. and ‘Namgis First Nation forge sustainable forestry pact – Canadian Forest Industries

April 10, 2024

Formal engagement and negotiations are underway between ‘Namgis First Nation and the province on a joint decision-making agreement to support forest stewardship and sustainable forestry operations.

“Alongside ‘Namgis First Nation, we are working with local communities and forestry operators to make sure local forests are managed sustainably, while increasing certainty in forestry operations that will help to maintain family-supporting jobs for the entire region,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Forests. “By moving toward joint decision-making with ‘Namgis and working together with local partners, we can advance reconciliation, take care of the forests that sustain local communities and support good forestry jobs for the long term.”

Through the Tree Farm Licence (TFL) 37 Forest Landscape Planning pilot project, ‘Namgis First Nation, the province and Western Forest Products are working together toward sustainable forest management that will support forest health, benefit local jobs and advance reconciliation.

Collaboration between the partners shows clear alignment on the desired outcomes for a balanced approach that supports sustainable forestry operations and the environment in the area. In these circumstances, a Section 7 agreement under the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (Declaration Act) is the best tool to create a joint decision-making partnership in the portion of ‘Namgis territory that overlaps Tree Farm Licence 37, currently held by Western Forest Products.

Read More: https://www.woodbusiness.ca/b-c-and-namgis-first-nation-forge-sustainable-forestry-pact/