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Western Forest Products & Huu-ay-aht First Nations to collaborate on reconciliation, environmental stewardship

August 23, 2018 – Western Forest Products and Huu-ay-aht First Nations, an indigenous community located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, have announced that they are working together to explore potential alternative ownership structures in Huu-ay-aht’s traditional territories in accordance with the Reconciliation Protocol Agreement.

The discussions will take place on an ongoing basis over the next several years, and possibly involve other area First Nations with traditional territories. The groups plan to develop a framework for reconciliation and revitalization of the Alberni Valley forest sector. This will include increased participation from First Nations via tenure ownership, employment and business opportunities, as well as sustained domestic manufacturing, increased training and jobs, better marketing, product innovation and environmental stewardship.

Western and Huu-ay-aht say they both strongly believe that working together will benefit the community, region and forestry sector.