The Sechelt First Nation says it’s looking to the landmark Chilcotin Decision as it moves to exercise more authority within traditional territories on Mount Elphinstone.
In particular, a 15-hundred hectare area that’s long been a source of tension between locals and the province; mainly over logging.
Sechelt Chief Calvin Craigan says anything that happens there will have to be in line with SIB policies. ” In support of our working relationship and after considerable dialogue we have chosen to protect this area from industrial development. We will be working with the SCRD, as we have in the Chapman and Gray Creek Watersheds, to develop collaborative management,” Craigan says.
In making the announcement Craigan also praised SCRD Director Donna Shugar for her efforts to get the area protected. Shugar says the Sechelt and the SCRD have worked closely on this issue, and it’s an important sign of a new relationship.
Shugar says the next step will be bringing in the Squamish Nation which also has traditional territory on Elphinstone.
