shíshálh Nation Addresses Illegal Poaching of Old Growth Trees Near Mason Road

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

shíshálh Nation Addresses Illegal Poaching of Old Growth Trees Near Mason Road

January 26, 2026 – ch̕atlich (Sechelt), BC – shíshálh Nation has recently been made aware of an incident involving the illegal harvesting and sale of firewood by an individual who is not shíshálh near Mason Road in Sechelt. This activity includes the removal of old growth trees, which is strictly prohibited under shíshálh law and contrary to the Nation’s established policies on forest stewardship.

shíshálh Nation takes this situation seriously, and steps are underway to ensure the appropriate authorities are informed. The matter has been reported to the Natural Resources Conservation Officer and is being handled as time allows.

shíshálh Nation remains committed to the preservation and protection of its lands, waters, and resources. The Nation’s Old Growth Policy is specifically designed to safeguard veteran trees and ensure the sustainable stewardship of the swiya for current and future generations. The actions observed are contrary to shíshálh laws, as articulated in the shíshálh Declaration and the shíshálh Lands and Resources Decision-Making Policy, which assert the Nation’s responsibility to govern and care for its swiya (territory).

shíshálh Nation reminds the public that the harvest of old-growth trees without authorization is prohibited and urges anyone with information about illegal activities in the swiya to contact the Conservation Office.

Chief and Council encourage members of the public to report any unlawful activities to the Conservation Office by calling the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277 or 604-413-0165.

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For further information, contact:

Nancy Shields
Interim Communications Manager
shíshálh Nation
shishalhcommunications@shishalh.com