West Fraser and Lake Babine Nation Sign Joint Development Agreement

Lake Babine Nation’s forestry enterprise, Lake Babine Nation Forestry Limited Partnership (LBN Forestry), has entered into a Joint Development Agreement (JDA) with West Fraser, The Interior News reported (4-8-24). This significant collaboration will merge their local tenure volumes into a single First Nations Woodland License (FNWL) under the ownership of Lake Babine Nation.

Prioritizing its role in forestry and forest management, Lake Babine established LBN Forestry in 2016, which now employs approximately 27 individuals.

In an April 8th statement, Chief Murphy Abraham expressed optimism about the agreement, emphasizing its potential to align forestry practices with the Nation’s stewardship priorities while fostering economic growth. “This agreement will contribute to the durability of forestry in our region and deliver employment and long-term benefits to the Lake Babine people,” Chief Abraham said.

Highlighting the importance of recognizing Lake Babine Nation’s stewardship role in their traditional territory, West Fraser President and CEO Sean McLaren, said, “Partnerships like this one will be key to restoring a thriving forest sector in the province.”

The Bulkley and the Morice Timber Supply Areas will contribute volume to the FNWL, enhancing its scope and potential impact.