Mount Benson North transferred from B.C. to Snuneymuxw First Nation

The Snuneymuxw First Nation received over 700 hectares of land on te’tuxwtun, known as Mount Benson North, from the Province of British Columbia, furthering their reconciliation efforts. This transfer is part of the Snuneymuxw First Nation and British Columbia Land Transfer Agreement, which aims to return over 3,000 hectares of land to the Nation. Chief Mike Wyse expressed that each returned parcel strengthens their economic autonomy and cultural connection to the land. The Petroglyph Development Group will manage the land, incorporating it into their Mount Benson Forestry operations. Minister Spencer Chandra Herbert emphasized the partnership's potential to create jobs in Nanaimo and surrounding areas.

Randene Neill, Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, noted that the land return fosters economic opportunities and responsible stewardship. Since 2020, Snuneymuxw and the Province have collaborated on numerous agreements, supported by local governments. This ongoing effort aims to resolve long-standing issues regarding Indigenous rights and economic development.