MONTREAL, April 11, 2013 /CNW/ - The Canadian Boreal Initiative (CBI) enthusiastically supports the Broadback Watershed Conservation Plan, released yesterday by the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee), to protect the Broadback River. The proposal, which covers more than 20,000 km2, proposes a balanced approach for the remaining intact roadless areas within the traditional territories of the communities of Mistissini, Oujé-Bougoumou, Waswanipi, Nemaska and Waskaganish. These areas are currently threatened by commercial forestry and mining.
"This campaign is a great example of exactly the sort of initiative needed to ensure that the remaining intact areas, essential to protecting the cultural identity of the Crees and their relationship with the land, are protected in perpetuity," said Valérie Courtois, CBI's Senior Advisor for Aboriginal Relations. "By including special conservation zones for community-based sustainable development, the Crees have developed a true watershed approach."
"CBI has supported the Crees in developing these protected area proposals for many years," said Suzann Méthot, CBI's Regional Director in Quebec. "We recognize the great value of the Broadback-Lake Evans area for the Aboriginal way of life, as well as its importance as habitat for the threatened woodland caribou. The Cree proposal is consistent with the Government of Quebec's commitments to protect at least 50% of the northern territory. The Crees' initiative offers the Quebec government with a great opportunity to address their commitments in the boreal region. Industrial activities currently occurring within the Broadback River watershed protected areas proposal should be suspended immediately, including logging, mining, and mineral staking," concluded Ms. Méthot.
About the Canadian Boreal Initiative
The Canadian Boreal Initiative brings together diverse partners to create new solutions for Boreal Forest conservation and acts as a catalyst for on-the-ground efforts across the Boreal Forest by governments, industry, Aboriginal communities, conservation groups, major retailers, financial institutions, and scientists.
SOURCE: Canadian Boreal Initiative
Suzann Méthot, Regional Director, Québec
(514) 792-1843 / [email protected]
Valérie Courtois, Senior Advisor, Aboriginal Relations
(709) 899-0578, [email protected]
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