First Nation forestry businesses throughout British Columbia will continue to receive the technical support they need to succeed, thanks to an additional $400,000 provided by the government of B.C.

First Nations students will receive specific training and be better skilled, thanks to a new two-year educational support program that will help ensure they have the opportunity to participate successfully in British Columbia's forest sector.

The B.C. government and Gitanyow Nation have reached a reconciliation agreement that will lead to shared decision-making and allow the Gitanyow to explore economic opportunities associated with the development of the Northwest Transmission Line.

Certainty for natural-resource development and environmental stewardship in northern B.C. was confirmed, with the formal signing of a Strategic Land Use Planning Agreement between the government of British Columbia and First Nations represented by the Kaska Dena Council.

The Ulkatcho First Nation now is eligible to apply for funding to promote sustainable economic development after signing a Strategic Land Use Planning Agreement governing the area known as the Great Bear Rainforest.

The Hupacasath First Nation have signed an agreement with the B.C. government giving the First Nation access to new, sustainable economic opportunities that reflect their traditional values.

The value of British Columbia's softwood lumber exports to China jumped 60 per cent in 2011, surpassing the $1-billion mark for the first time. Since 2003, lumber exports to China have risen by more than 1,500 per cent.