A new collaborative approach to land-use planning on northern Vancouver Island will help protect ‘Na̲mg̲is First Nation cultural values and biodiversity, while providing operational clarity for the forest industry within ‘Na̲mg̲is territory. Developed through a government-to-government process between the Province and ‘Na̲mg̲is, the Gwa’ni Land Use Plan introduces modifications to the existing Vancouver Island Land Use Plan. …“The implementation of the Gwa’ni recommendations is an important step forward to addressing long-standing concerns of the Nation, setting the stage for achieving shared stewardship responsibilities and establishing new approaches to support a sustainable forestry industry in the north island,” said Victor Isaac, ‘Na̲mg̲is Chief Councillor. …“Western is pleased to see the progress being made in advancing the Gwa’ni Land Use Plan,” said Steven Hofer, president and CEO, Western Forest Products. “…The plan also proposes two new areas for conservation that would cover approximately 1,600 hectares of the 166,000-hectare watershed.

BC Government Press Release: B.C., ‘Na̲mg̲is endorse Gwa’ni land-use planning recommendations