Respect and Recognition Statement for Indigenous Lands and Relationships 

The Nature Trust of British Columbia acknowledges with humility the deep connection Indigenous communities have with the lands and waters now known as British Columbia.  Together, we embark on a conservation journey dedicated to the caretaking and protection of these areas, while honoring and respecting the spiritual, cultural, and ancestral wisdom that Indigenous peoples hold. Acknowledging our journey of continuous improvement, we are dedicated to developing meaningful and lasting relationships with Indigenous peoples and communities by listening, learning, and evolving to ensure our work incorporates and reflects the enduring knowledge and heritage uniquely held by Indigenous peoples. 

Responsibility of the Board: 

Indigenous Engagement and Respect Policy 

In our recognition and respect for First Nations and Indigenous Peoples’ rights and Interests, our approach will include: 

  • Recognition and acknowledgement of the traditional territories within which our various conservation areas are located;
  • Establishment of respectful, meaningful, and productive relationships with First Nations to support our goal of conserving nature and maintaining BC’s natural biodiversity, while recognizing and respecting First Nations’ rights and interests; 
  • Engagement with First Nations to understand the importance of the areas of their traditional territories where our conservation areas are located for ceremony, hunting, fishing, and food production, and the importance of cultural and/or spiritual values; 
  • Respecting all knowledge sources and seeking to understand and incorporate First Nations’ knowledge in developing and implementing management, conservation, and restoration plans; 
  • Engagement with First Nations through collaboration and mutually beneficial relationships, in the development and implementation of management, conservation, and restoration plans; and, 
  • Exploring opportunities to contribute to First Nations and Indigenous community led conservation initiatives (e.g. Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas; Salmon and Tribal Parks)