letter from Snaw-naw-as (Nanoose) First Nation

Here is the text of a letter I received today by email.

Nanoose Economic Development Master LP
209 Mallard Way, Lantzville, B.C. V0R2H0
P 250-390-3661
March 9, 2021
Peter Johnston
Islands Trust
VIA EMAIL: pjohnston [at] islandstrust [dot] bc [dot] ca

Dear Mr. Johnston,

Snaw-Naw-As First Nation is submitting application for a First Nation Woodland Licence (FNWL) that will include crown land within Snaw-Naw-As traditional territory on Lasqueti Island. The FNWL will be managed by Snaw-Naw-As Forest Services LP, a company solely owned by the Snaw-Naw-As First Nation.

It is Snaw-Naw-As’ interest to manage lands within their traditional territory wherever possible. Management interests include protection of cultural values, traditional uses of natural resources, wildlife, fish, aquatic life, water, biodiversity, and for economic opportunity. We are aware of pending protection regulations that the proposed FNWL may be subject to including marbled murrelet habitat and visual quality objectives. Snaw-Naw-As Forestry will ensure that all regulations are respected.

We recognize that the community on Lasqueti Island is concerned about protection of
biodiversity. Snaw-Naw-As Forestry has no plans in the foreseeable future to develop harvest blocks on Lasqueti Island. Should we consider harvesting in the future we will consult with the community on Lasqueti.

We appreciate your interest and respect for Snaw-Naw-As territorial lands.

Sincerely,
Cindy Stern
Chief Executive Officer
Nanoose Economic Development Corporation