We have been looking into ways of participating in other Non-Timber Forest Products initiatives. There is a developer in Wawa who has been researching the potential to develop Blueberry Farming as a regional initiative. So far, potential sites include an area in the Chapleau region known as the Sultan flats which encompass approximately 850 acres for development. Potential sites on reserve are also being assessed. This is just one of the NTFP initiatives.

 

The Lands and Resources coordinator has also been involved with Forest Management Planning. We are trying to determine what is best for the lands within our territories. Involvement in this process is essential if we want to help shape our lands for future use. Currently, there are 3 different forest companies whose FMPs are under review. The companies involved are; Domtar (Timmins), Tembec (Chapleau), Tembec (Kapuskasing- Gordon Cousins Project). 

 

The Lands and Resources coordinator will also been attending training sessions in GIS, TEK Database Collection, Eco-Land Class Assessments, Negotiations, and Developing Relations as part of a regional Lands and Resources group from First Nations belonging to the Wabun Tribal Council.This group has a rep in each community who work together for the collective benefit of all the First Nations of the Wabun Tribal Council.