BC’s Klahoose First Nation Signs Landmark Forest Tenure Agreement With Interfor

The Klahoose First Nation has signed a landmark deal with Interfor to purchase a total tenure of 181,036 cubic meters of annual cut of forest lands located on the Sunshine Coast in the Nation’s traditional territory, the Campbell River Mirror reported (12-5-23).

The Klahoose invested from their forestry revenue to add over 180,000 cubic meters of timber to the existing tenure of 115,000 cubic meters, resulting in a total of 296,036 cubic meters in annual allowable cut (AAC) under their ownership and management, according to the Campbell River Mirror. The purchase brings the Klahoose First Nation a step closer to its goal of being the only licensee in its territory. It also makes the Klahoose one of the largest First Nations tenure holders and forestry operators in the province.

The Klahoose First Nation is currently investing in a refit of its community mill, which will use sustainably logged fiber from the separate community forest and woodlot tenures on Cortes Island to make a range of value-added forestry products for local use.

“The Klahoose Nation is a forestry nation,” said Klahoose First Nation Chief Steven Brown. “We see a bright future for forestry and it is time for us to manage the resources in our territory for the benefits to come to our members. By purchasing the tenure licenses to these lands from Interfor we will create jobs and revenue for our members but also help ensure that B.C.’s forest sector thrives into the future rather than being a sunset industry.”

Interfor Vice President of Coastal Operations Ralph Fredrich said, “We have valued our long-term relationship with the Klahoose First Nation and are delighted to reach this milestone agreement. Interfor is committed to the ongoing progress on reconciliation in British Columbia. This tenure transfer agreement with the Klahoose is a demonstration of the mutually beneficial outcomes that can be achieved when Nations and companies like ours work together in a collaborative spirit.”