The recent blockades in the Upper Walbran have made difficult decisions for the FoCW. But showing respect and keeping the dialogue, or the channels for dialogue open with the Nation is important in regards to the ratification of the 1500 hectare Central Walbran deferral area, the 500 hectare Key Biodiversity Area and our  work there, the trails and the different flora, fungi and fauna surveys. This is a copy of a letter we recently sent to Chief Councillor Arliss Jones in response to a September 10th press release from the Band Council.

September 14th 2025

To Chief Councillor Arliss Daniels,

I am writing on behalf of the Friends of Carmanah Walbran (FoCW), in response to your press release on September 10th 2025. FoCW reiterates that we do our work within Pacheedaht Nation Territory and that we recognize and respect your Inherent Rights and authority “over all activities within [your] Traditional Territory”. It is our goal to be guided by this in the work we do in and around the valley. 

FoCW is a volunteer, non profit group that has worked in the Central Walbran, Pacheedaht Nation Territory, since 2012. We have built and maintained trails, signage and outhouses that enable people to visit this special place. This work helps to mitigate the impacts of these visits on the forest ecosystem. Our work there has also included mapping the flora and fauna and our peer reviewed list now contains over seven hundred species.

We also acknowledge and express gratitude for the Council’s “draft conservation network of areas reserved from harvesting in its Traditional Territory, including within the Walbran Valley”.

Pacheedaht elder Bill Jones has supported our work in the territory and we continue to consider his guidance as we do our work. Our goal as an organization is to walk alongside the Nation to preserve biodiversity, climate security and cultural connection in the Walbran Valley. We try to do this in a good way that follows Pacheedaht Nations sovereign rights. Our June 8th 2021 letter of support to acknowledge and respect Pacheedaht Nation Territory still stands.

Sincerely
The Friends of Carmanah Walbran