BCCFA Recognizes National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2026

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a time to reflect on our shared history, to listen and learn, and to recognize that reconciliation is ongoing work. Across BC, community forests are contributing to that work by building relationships with First Nations, creating opportunities for shared stewardship and decision-making, and learning from the knowledge and values that First Nations bring to caring for the land.

The BCCFA 2026 Indicators Report reflects the growing role of First Nations leadership in the community forest program. Among the 37 community forests that participated in this year’s survey, 24% are held by First Nations and 41% are governed through partnerships between First Nations and local communities. Half reported cooperative planning with First Nations, and 68% reported taking action in response to the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act and related provincial commitments.

There is no single model for this work. Relationships are shaped by the history of each place, the people and communities involved, and their connections to the land. The examples shared through this year’s Indicators Report show some of the different ways those relationships are taking shape.

On the Sunshine Coast, Talaysay Tours, with support from the Sunshine Coast Community Forest, launched the three-year Tatchulmixw ?e te Swiya (Animals of the Land) initiative in 2025. The land-based learning program brings together First Nations knowledge, forest science, art and language while providing education, paid mentorship and workforce training.

At Wetzin’kwa Community Forest, stewardship includes attention to culturally important plants and habitat values alongside more conventional measures of forest management. Huckleberry and soopalalie are planted or transplanted in areas where they have cultural significance, and the community forest is exploring ways to maintain more open forest conditions that support a range of values, including healthy grizzly bear habitat.

These are just two examples of work taking place across the community forest network. They also remind us that meaningful relationships are built over time through listening, working together, sharing knowledge and making space for different ways of understanding and caring for the land.

On September 30, the BCCFA recognizes National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and the importance of continuing this work with humility, respect and a commitment to strong and enduring relationships with First Nations.