Tsawak-qin Forestry Limited Partnership (C̕awak ʔqin Forestry) recognizes that the Walbran Valley is a place of high ecological and cultural significance. Our approach reflects this understanding and follows the Pacheedaht First Nation and the Province of British Columbia’s shared objective for the area which prioritizes ecological integrity while allowing for limited, carefully managed forest harvesting to support local economic resilience.

The Pacheedaht First Nation Chief and Council, on behalf of the Nation, have given consent to the harvest plan in the Walbran Valley. Our planned activity incorporates specific measures to integrate cultural and ecological priorities, including the protection of culturally significant trees, support for traditional bark harvesting and respect for Indigenous knowledge. Moreover, harvesting activities undertaken by C̕awak ʔqin Forestry are conducted in compliance with provincial regulations and best practices, including our industry-leading measures to protect tall trees.

On Friday, September 5, C̕awak ʔqin Forestry filed an application seeking an interim injunction. If granted by the court, the injunction would prohibit anyone from interfering or blocking access to the permitted harvest area and any road within the injunction area.

At this time, the court has granted short leave for the injunction application to be heard on Tuesday, September 9. Notice of the court hearing has been served to the blockaders.

It is important to note that C̕awak ʔqin Forestry respects and upholds Pacheedaht First Nation’s sovereignty and right to self-determination (you can read a statement from Pacheedaht at www.pacheedaht.ca).

Together, we have jointly developed a draft conservation network of areas reserved from harvesting in Pacheedaht’s traditional territory in TFL 44, including the Walbran. All forestry activities directly support the local economy, local workers and Indigenous sovereignty.

We will continue to provide updates as the court process unfolds.