A parcel of land from the Province is contributing to the K'ómoks First Nation and Town of Comox's shared vision for the management of Northeast Woods.

The Province is transferring 13 hectares of Crown land to be added to the existing Northeast Woods, a popular recreation area minutes from downtown Comox. The land addition is valued at $875,000 and was made possible through a Crown grant sponsored by the Ministry of Environment. The grant ensures the land will continue to be used for recreation and will provide a 'buffer' to enhance wildlife protection for the neighbouring Lazo Marsh Wildlife Management Area.

Funding for the Crown grant will come from the Ministry of Environment's annual allocation in government's Crown Land Special Account. The special account is used to transfer Crown land at less than market value to a government agency for community and institutional use.

Under a memorandum of understanding, the Town of Comox will transfer the Northeast Woods lands, including the new addition, to the K'ómoks First Nation, and the K'ómoks First Nation will then lease the land back to the Town of Comox for 99 years. This allows the Town of Comox to operate the area and ensures both the town and the K'ómoks will have continued involvement in decision-making regarding the future use and management of the area.

Quotes:

Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Steve Thomson -

"I commend the K'ómoks First Nation and the Town of Comox for their hard work to reach this agreement. Their shared vision will allow Comox residents to enjoy this natural space for decades to come."

Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation John Rustad -

"This is just the latest example of the collaborative approach that B.C. and K'ómoks First Nation have established. As we build on our successes, in the treaty process and elsewhere, I look forward to working with K'ómoks First Nation, as we move forward together in partnership."

MLA for Comox Valley Don McRae -

"This agreement is an excellent example of how the Province's Crown grant program can foster local partnerships that create positive benefits for families and residents. I look forward to visiting the expanded Northeast Woods."

Mayor Paul Ives, Town of Comox -

"Through our combined efforts, we have reached our goal of ensuring the long-term protection of Northeast Woods. The Town of Comox looks forward to continuing our relationship with the K'ómoks and local stewardship groups as we manage and operate the area on a collaborative basis for the benefit of the community."

Rob Everson, Chief, K'ómoks First Nation -

"This agreement will preserve the recreational and ecological values of Northeast Woods. The K'ómoks people believe that a healthy environment helps create a strong community. Securing the future of this area helps achieve those goals."

Learn more:

K'ómoks First Nation: http://comoxband.ca/index.php

Town of Comox: http://comox.ca/

Contact:

Brennan Clarke
Media Relations
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261