We Wai Kai Nation and Mosaic Forest Management Joint Statement on Proposal for Quadra Island

Laichkwiltach Territory, Campbell River, BC — Recently the Open Bay Society communicated its interest in establishing a conservancy on Quadra Island.

This area is an important part of the We Wai Kai Nation’s territory and is subject to the Nation’s treaty negotiations and is part of its long-term land-use plan. The area also falls on Crown Land within Tree Farm Licence 47 which is managed by Mosaic Forest Management.

“Through the Treaty process and community planning, we are balancing the need for We Wai Kai community development, sustainability and environmental protection with the right of our future generations to benefit from We Wai lands and resources,” said We Wai Kai Chief Brian Assu. “We also recognize the interests of other Quadra Islanders and are confident that our negotiations on the island will benefit us all. But to be clear, there are no negotiations currently underway with any organization about a conservancy and our Nation retains its right as the ultimate decision makers and stewards over our lands and waters.”

“Over the past decade we have worked closely with the We Wai Kai Nation and today share a mutual understanding of their interests in the TFL,” said Domenico Iannidinardo, Mosaic’s Vice President, Forest & Logistics and Chief Forester. “We support and respect the Treaty process as the Nation builds a long-term vision for the area that meets the traditional, social and economic needs of its members. As such, Mosaic is not in negotiations, nor is it legally in a position to negotiate, with the Open Bay Society.”

“We encourage Open Bay Society or any community organization or business to discuss their interests directly with the Nation and the Province, rather than through the media,” added Chief Assu.

Media Contacts
Chief Brian Assu, We Wai Kai Nation (250-287-9460)
Evelina Lamu, Manager, Communications, Mosaic (media@mosaicforests.com)