Tla’amin Nation and Western Forest Products (WFP) announced the signing of a renewal agreement on July 6 that builds upon the current 2019 memorandum of understanding.
According to a media release from Tla’amin and WFP, the agreement furthers existing collaboration and initiates the development of a Tla’amin-led, collaborative integrated resource management plan (IRMP) for the Tla’amin territory. In addition to planning for Tla’amin treaty lands and crown tenure areas, the IRMP will include collaboration with WFP on planning for the portion of tree farm licence 39 block 1, located in the Tla’amin territory.
“Today, Tla’amin celebrates the next step in regaining control over the forests and natural resources throughout our territory,” stated hegus John Hackett. “We have a strong and respectful working relationship with Western, and through this joint planning process, we will better ensure that forestry decisions on our territory are made by Tla’amin and reflect the best interests of both present and future generations of Tla’amin citizens.”
Shannon Janzen, WFP vice-president of partnerships and sustainability, and chief forester, stated the agreement is an important step in reconciliation and recognizes and respects the interests of Tla’amin.
“At Western, we are committed to continuous improvement and have a long-term track record in sustainable forest management,” stated Janzen. “We look forward to collaborating with the Tla’amin Nation through this agreement that includes joint planning and shared learning to define a path forward together.”
The release stated the agreement advances joint efforts that have been underway since the signing of the 2019 memorandum of understanding regarding relationship, business relations and economic opportunities. Completion of the IRMP process is expected to take up to two years to develop a values and science-based plan, according to the release.
In the interim, WFP will work with Tla’amin leadership toward the goal of reaching consensus on identified forestry decisions, the release stated. The announcement introduces an improved structure for continued exploration of innovative ideas to advance the parties’ common interests related to their respective forestry assets and interests in the territory.
