Chris Roberts and Dallas Smith: As First Nations across B.C. work to regain control over the unceded territories they’ve occupied and protected for millennia, a recent Forest Appeals Commission ruling about illegal logging in the Great Bear Rainforest raises serious concerns about the province’s ability to monitor timber harvesting as well as its commitment to Indigenous reconciliation.
Between 2016 and 2020, Bigfoot Forest Products illegally harvested timber valued at $226,000 from outside its authorized licence area, in the traditional territory of the Wei Wai Kum First Nation. Following an investigation, the Ministry of Forests, the provincial body entrusted with managing and safeguarding the province’s most valuable natural resource, determined a fine of $12,000 would be appropriate.
Around the province, Indigenous Guardians are the eyes and ears of our Nations. They protect local ecosystems and cultural resources within our territories by watching for the ongoing illegal harvest of trees, illegal hunting, wildlife poaching, fire ban violations and disturbances of archeological sites, such as grave sites and shell middens.
More training and more resources are needed now to expand and empower B.C.’s Guardian programs, which play such an important role in supporting the provincial government while also providing meaningful long-term careers options for Indigenous youth.
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
'Will Smith tells Trevor Noah he was 'going through something' when he hit Chris RockWill Smith says he was \u0022going through something\u0022 the night he struck Chris Rock.
Read more »
Dallas Stars sign Roope Hintz to eight-year, $67.6 million contract extension - Daily FaceoffHintz broke out with a career-high 37 goals and 72 points in 2021-22 and has eight goals and 24 points through 22 games so far this season.
Read more »
Critics say Smith is bullying businesses over COVID-19 policiesPremier Danielle Smith says she is glad to see many employers and businesses who are changing their protocols on vaccination but critics are suggesting these changes are being made because of 'harassment and threats.'
Read more »
Will Smith 'understands' if people don't want to watch new filmWill Smith says he will \u0022understand\u0022 if audiences choose not to watch his upcoming slave drama, Emancipation, after he attacked Chris Rock.
Read more »