Federal government to support Indigenous-led projects in BC’s forestry sector

ALERT BAY —  Jonathan Wilkinson, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources, announced over $1.4 million in funding to Atli Chip LP through the Indigenous Forestry Initiative (IFI) program.

The program provides financial support to Indigenous-led economic development projects in Canada’s forest sector. Indigenous Services Canada also supported this project through the Strategic Partnerships Initiative.

The wood chipping facility has the ability to debark and chip larger logs as well as wood chunks, reducing wood waste. It will provide pulp chips to mills on Vancouver Island and British Columbia’s Lower Mainland, as well as biomass from wood harvested in the ‘Namgis traditional territory and adjacent Forest Resources Licenses.

Atli Chip LP is also working closely with FPInnovations to actively improve the efficiency and capacity of their facility, including the ability to process forest harvest residue feedstocks.

“I would like to congratulate the ‘Namgis First Nation on the successful expansion of their sustainable operations at Atli Chip LP. This innovative development will create new opportunities and sustainable jobs while demonstrating Indigenous leadership in the sector. The government of Canada is pleased to support this important work,” said Wilkinson in a statement.