Quatsino First Nation (Quatsino or the Nation) and Western Forest Products Inc. (Western) have entered into an agreement that provides for a joint vision and approach to share opportunities related to forest resources in unceded Quatsino traditional territory. This agreement allows for a “bridging period” of increased stability for forestry workers and North Island communities as Quatsino, Western and the Province continue to pursue longer term reconciliation arrangements that respect and recognize Quatsino’s rights within its territory, and provide for North Island economic stability.
The investments are part of the Company’s ongoing commitment to support value-added manufacturing on the B.C. Coast and grow its value-added wood products business, all while continuing to improve Western’s long-term competitiveness.
Motorists may encounter Western employees on select roads this Victoria Day weekend, as well as future holiday weekends in 2022. Employees will be available to offer safe driving tips for the industrial roads, and answer related questions, as appropriate.
Nuchatlaht Chief Jordan Michael acknowledged that, during the five years of proceedings leading up to the trial, Western never disputed Nuchatlaht’s claim of Aboriginal title to their lands on Nootka Island, and expressed appreciation for the fact that Western will not seek court costs for its participation in the case to date.
“We are proud to have one of the most gender diverse Board and executive management teams in the industry,” said Jennifer Foster, Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Human Resources, Western Forest Products. “As we celebrate this recognition of women in leadership roles, I would also like to acknowledge the valued contributions of all of the women on the Western team.”
The Western Forest Products Bursary for Women in Forestry will cover half of the tuition fees for the successful candidate enrolled in VIU’s two-year Forestry Resources Technology Diploma Program.
A planning and reconciliation agreement between four member Nations of the Nanwakolas Council and Western Forest Products includes an agreement to defer harvest of approximately 2,500 hectares of ancient, rare and other priority old growth for two years in support of Province’s Old Growth Strategy.
The contract supports the ongoing relationship between the two parties and builds on the Renewal Agreement Western and the Tla’amin Nation signed last July by demonstrating progress in advancing innovative and mutually beneficial activities in the Tla’amin Territory.
The company is contributing $100,000 to 30 community groups and First Nations partners to help provide food and toys for the holidays where they are needed the most on the coast of B.C. and Washington State. Through Western’s Community Enhancement Fund, the company provides support to local community events, organizations and initiatives. Western takes pride in its commitment to sustainable and stable communities in the areas in which it operates.
Under this comprehensive agreement, the parties will work towards co-developing an Integrated Resource Management Plan (IMRP) and mutually beneficial business solutions in support of economic reconciliation.