CivicInfo Library

Publisher: Squamish, District of

Author: Squamish, District of

Subject(s):

Collection(s):

Posting Date: April 16, 2019

Year Published: 2019

The Squamish Nation and District of Squamish have signed a historic agreement that defines a governance structure to put control of approximately 10,000 hectares of forest land squarely in the hands of the community. The governance structure agreement was signed by the Nation and District earlier this year, and an open house will be held May 1 to engage residents in the next steps. This is the first partnership agreement signed by the Nation and District where the two organizations will be co-managing a local asset.

A Squamish Community Forest offers many benefits including: long-term economic development and local employment; local level decision-making and planning over timber harvesting in key areas such as cultural and spiritual sites, watersheds, viewscapes and recreational areas; education and research opportunities including increased community awareness of forest management.

Residents and community groups are invited to learn more about the Squamish Community Forest and share ideas about proposed forest values that will guide the development of the management plan. All are invited on Wednesday, May 1 from 3 to 8 p.m. at the Sea to Sky Hotel (Tantalus Room). A second open house will be scheduled in June for those who may not be able to attend.

The Squamish Community Forest was an opportunity presented to Squamish by the B.C. Ministry of Forests and Range. The Squamish Community Forest Corporation will be responsible for overseeing the forest operations. The Board of Directors includes: Mayor Karen Elliott, Councillors Armand Hurford and Jenna Stoner representing the District of Squamish and Chief Ian Campbell, Wilson Williams and Richard Baker representing the Squamish Nation.

Full Text Word Count: 2272