Indigenous Peoples

When we look back at the history of Indigenous people in Alberta and Canada, we can see how the forested land has, and continues to, met the needs of Indigenous people, not only culturally and spiritually, but in other ways such as fishing, trapping, hunting, etc. We also know that Indigenous people view the forest from a different perspective as it is important to their culture; it provides food, medicine, shelter, and materials.

As the first stewards of the land and forest, Indigenous people recognized that their survival was dependent upon maintaining a healthy forest. Their traditional knowledge of the land is increasingly gaining attention with the decision makers of our forests. In some cases, that traditional knowledge is the best source of information when looking at geographical features, species status and health.

Image Source: Canadian Council of Forest Ministers


During the planning stage, when a Forest Management Agreement is being developed, and before any harvesting can take place, forest companies must consult with the Indigenous people that will be affected. This consultation is not only an opportunity to share information but also for Indigenous people to provide the forest companies with information about any areas that are historically sensitive, spiritual and/or hunting areas that are imperative to their livelihood. The forest companies must do everything possible to limit the effect of harvesting on the lives of the Indigenous people at all stages of any particular harvesting project.
In addition, the Government of Alberta has a policy that outlines its legal obligation to consult with Indigenous people, not only regarding the forested land but also the water, air, or fish and wildlife. Read the Government of Alberta’s Policy on Consultation with First Nations on Land and Natural Resource Management.

Sometimes, even though all parties have the best intentions, Indigenous people feel that their efforts to sustain the forest and land are not being heard. Often, their objections to specific projects are displayed in protests, blocking access roads or other measures. Some First Nations  have come together to oppose certain oil industry projects; the Treaty Alliance Against New Pipeline Development was signed in September 2016, and commits over 50 First Nations and Tribes from Canada and the United States to work together to stop proposed oil sands pipelines, tankers, and rail projects on their lands and waters.

A more recent example of how Indigenous people are using different means to ensure their input is heard occured late 2019 early 2020 when Indigenous people across the country set up barricades on train tracks, roads and bridges in solidarity with Wet’suwet’en Nation’s hereditary chiefs, some of whom objected to the construction of a natural-gas pipeline through their traditional territory.

To ensure that our forests are responsibly managed and sustained, information and input from all stakeholders is important; by working together, everyone benefits from the experiences, knowledge, skills, etc. of the other.