Land Resource Management Planning
The Province will work with the Gitga’at, Haisla, Heiltsuk, Kitasoo/Xaixais, Metlakatla and Haida Nations to define principles and anticipate scope and outcomes of the Land Resource Management Planning processes for the Haida Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands) and North Coast. The First Nations may develop their own Land Resource Management Plans and bring them forward to new planning forums that include local stakeholders. Where a First Nation cannot agree to a recommendation from the planning forum, a government-to-government process will be established to resolve the outstanding matter directly with the province. Note that Central Coast Plancompletion is subject to a more detailed agreement with the First Nations, as it is a more advanced stage that the QCI and North Coast Plans, which are not yet started.
This agreement does not apply to the majority of First Nations participating in the Central Coast land and coastal resources management plan. For that reason a separate agreement is being reached with those nations.
Prior to First Nations involvement with the land-use plan for Haida Gwaii, the Haida Nation and B.C. will identify issues of concern that require immediate resolution.
Interim Measures
The province will identify opportunities and help develop measures to facilitate First Nation involvement in forestry economic development including:
- Joint ventures with existing forest companies and contractors.
- Forest tenures, including community forest pilot projects.
- Development of a forest management workforce, including silviculture crews.
- Contracting for forest management services.
B.C. will also identify timber availability and forest business opportunities and support the development of First Nations business and capacity building plans. Forestry companies and the federal government will be asked to participate.
First Nations and the province will develop a comprehensive tourism strategy for the region. The tourism industry and the federal government will be asked to participate in these discussions. Individual interim measures may be negotiated to support the development of business plans to advance tourism.
Ecosystem-Based Management
Land Resource Management Planning and management will be guided by ecosystem-based management focused on maintaining healthy ecosystems while sustaining human social, economic and cultural activities. An information body formed of representatives from First Nations and local communities and experts in related fields will assist Land Resource Management Planning processes and First Nations doing their own plans.
For Immediate Release
April 4, 2001
