PORT RENFREW, BC – As the rightful stewards of its lands, waters, and resources, the Pacheedaht First Nation is asserting its Inherent Rights and authority over all activities within its Traditional Territory. The Nation is formally asking all blockaders currently obstructing lawful forestry activities in the Walbran Valley area to stand down and leave. “The protestors’ blockade undermines our Nation’s authority to govern our Traditional Territory and disrupts the important work we are doing to protect and manage our lands responsibly,” said Chief Councillor Arliss Daniels, Pacheedaht First Nation. “Blockaders showed complete disrespect for our Territory in the past, including environmental damage. Our lands are not to be misused or disrespected under any circumstances. We call for all external parties to cease their disruptive activities, and for blockaders to leave our Territory, immediately.” Pacheedaht has developed a draft conservation network of areas reserved from harvesting in its Traditional Territory, including within the Walbran Valley. 

Related coverage in Ricochet, by Brandi Morin: In B.C., an elder is taking his own Nation to court to save the ancient forests. Four years ago, Bill Jones was at the forefront of the largest act of civil disobedience in Canadian history. Now he’s once again fighting for the old growth trees.