B.C. has reached a milestone in its innovative approach to putting forestry revenue directly back into First Nations communities.

The signing of a Forest Consultation and Revenue Sharing Agreement (FCRSA) with the Chawathil First Nation marks the 100th FCRSA signed since B.C. adopted a new model in 2010.

The Chawathil FCRSA agreement flows a percentage of provincial forestry revenue from the First Nation's traditional territory directly back into the community and allows the First Nation to decide where it is needed most.

B.C. launched a new harvest-based FCRSA revenue-sharing model in December 2010. In addition to revenue-sharing, FCRSAs also provide a consultation process for operational decisions related to forestry in the area. This enhances consultation efficiency, provides certainty to the land base and provides a positive investment environment for industry and opportunities for First Nations and non-First Nations community members.

First Nations have used the revenue to support community initiatives and infra-structure projects ranging from economic development in forestry, lands and resource development to afterschool care and education programs. Other uses include funding community hall improvements and community information sessions.

First Nations are managing more than 300 tenures throughout the province and, as of July 2012, held directly awarded tenures representing almost nine per cent of B.C.'s allowable annual cut. First Nations also have competitively obtained forest tenures representing another six per cent of B.C.'s allowable annual cut. In total, First Nations have access to more than 12 million cubic metres this year.

B.C.'s recently released Forest Sector Strategy makes partnerships with First Nations in forestry a priority. The Province continues to pursue new forest tenure opportunity agreements that provide First Nations with both short and longer-term certainty of timber supply for their forestry businesses. Since 2010, more than 25 forest tenure opportunity agreements have been signed.

Quotes:

Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Minister Ida Chong -

"Through the BC Jobs Plan, our government is improving opportunities for First Nations to participate in resource activity in their traditional territory. The signing of this 100th Forest Consultation and Revenue Sharing Agreement, with the Chawathil First Nation, is a clear sign of the progress we are making through our innovative approach."

Chawathil First Nation Chief Rhoda Peters -

"For years, the Province gained revenue from the forestry industry, and now we have a voice in the decisions regarding timber within our traditional territory. We will utilize this opportunity to secure revenue for our community and offer employment to our membership. We look forward to making the best decisions that will allow our membership to be the stewards of the forest lands for future use."

Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Minister Steve Thomson -

"Forestry is the backbone of over 150 communities across B.C., and I'm proud of the significant progress we've made to increase First Nations' participation in the forest sector."

Learn More:

To see a copy of the Chawathil First Nation agreement, go to: http://www.newrelationship.gov.bc.ca/agreements_and_leg/forestry.html

To see a copy of Our Natural Advantage: Forest Sector Strategy for British Columbia, go to:http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/mof/forestsectorstrategy

Contact:

Robin Platts
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation
250 387-1204
250 213-6451 (cell)