Tree Farm Licence 44 Limited Partnership (TFL 44 LP) announced today positive safety and financial results for fiscal 2020. TFL 44 LP is a partnership between Western Forest Products Inc. (Western) and Huumiis Ventures Limited Partnership (Huumiis). The 2020 financial and safety results were a remarkable achievement given TFL 44 LP only fully operated for seven months during fiscal 2020 and faced unprecedented challenges from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
“When we formed this partnership in 2019 with Western, we did so with the intention of advancing our shared vision of forestry revitalization, reconciliation, and creating a brighter future for present and future generations,” said Tayii Ḥawił ƛiišin, Huu-ay-aht First Nations Head Hereditary Chief, Derek Peters, and TFL 44 LP Board Member. “In order to accomplish this, we have focused on employment and training, strengthening the relationship with USW and long-term resource management planning. Now one year in, we are pleased with the positive financial performance, and we are making great steps toward our broader goals.”
TFL 44 LP is committed to fostering a strong relationship with United Steelworkers Local 1-1937 (USW) and the local workforce. It is focused on creating opportunities for employees and supporting increased jobs and training for Huu-ay-aht citizens, their family members, and other local First Nations, as positions become available. Huumiis has recently hired a new full-time Employment and Training Manager to ensure the success of its employment and training efforts.
“In light of the many challenges we faced in 2020, the progress that has been made is encouraging,” said Dallyn Willis, Western Vice President, Finance, and TFL 44 LP Board Member. “Western congratulates Huu-ay-aht First Nations and USW on their recent agreement and looks forward to all parties’ continued collaboration to foster the economic revitalization of the Alberni Valley forest sector.”
In addition to their focus on jobs and training, TFL 44 LP and Western have been invited to participate in the Huu-ay-aht-led hišuk ma c̕awak Integrated Resource Management Plan (IRMP). The IRMP is a coordinated plan for forest and environmental management on the Ḥahuułi of the Huu-ay-aht ḥaw̓iiḥ (Huu-ay-aht traditional territory) that respects the present and future needs of the Nation. It considers the entire ecosystem including watersheds, salmon, and other aquatic life, wildlife, and ancient trees. The plan will be guided by the Nation’s three sacred principles: ʔiisaak (greater respect), ʔuuʔałuk (taking care of), and hišuk ma c̕awak (everything is one). It will consider ways to advance the already industry-leading biodiversity and old-forest management practices employed by Western and TFL 44 LP, including retention, silviculture systems and big tree protections. “The commitment to collaboration with Western and TFL 44 LP on the development and implementation of the IRMP is very promising, and we are excited about the future of this relationship,” said John Jack, Huumiis Chair. “As we expand our collective vision of reconciliation and revitalization of the forest sector, we will contribute to the long-term stability of the Alberni Valley for all.”