Dialogue on Development Edited by Malcolm McColl

We salute the independent economic development spirit of Klahoose First Nation At Hedefine Contracting Ltd., we’re proud of our reputation as the foremost roofing contractor serving the northern Gulf Islands of British Columbia. Since 1998 we have constructed more than 1,500 hundred roofs in the Discovery group of Islands alone.

Hedefine Contracting Ltd. PO Box 186 Quathiaski Cove, BC V0P 1N0 Telephone 250-285-2866 | www.hedefine.com

We salute the independent spirit of economic development in Klahoose First Nation

“Serving Vancouver Island & The Gulf Islands for 62 Years” Sidney Head Office: (250) 656-1125 Admirals Road: (250) 388-5443 Langford: (250) 478-5509 Saltspring: (250) 537-4978 Delta: (604) 580-3033 Vancouver: (604) 215-1152 Slegg Wall Panel Plant: Sidney (250) 656-9255

Slegg Door Shop: Langford (250) 386-3667 Nanaimo: (250) 758-8329 Tofino: (250) 725-2538 Lantzville: (250) 390-1207 Cumberland: (250) 336-8710 Comox: (250) 339-2207

TOLL FREE: 1-888-444-5570 North Island Representative : 1-888-444-5563

www.slegglumber.com Proud To Serve The First Nations May 2010 25

Dialogue on Development

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Econ Forestry and Consulting Committed to Client Service

en Apedaile, partner at Econ Forestry, says the current expansion and increased scope of interim forestry resource agreements, super woodlots, community forests and the new First Nations woodlands tenure have increased business and community development opportunities available to First Nations in BC. He adds, “They have also increased expectations— both internal (Band Councils, members, EDOs) and external (governments, clients, partners and stakeholders)—that these bear fruit and succeed on all fronts. But it is one thing to

work for years to acquire a forest tenure agreement and quite another thing to take ownership of it, get it up and running, make money, and meet everyone’s expectations.”

their aspirations, goals, interests, and priorities with respect to forestry ventures,” says Len, “whether these be jobs, revenue, resource management, forest business development, secondary industry such as milling or manufacturing, or a combination thereof. We have Econ Consulting fits with their witnessed and shared in successes First Nations Forest Enterprise but we have also learned first hand Development Program. Econ is a about the difficulties, challenges and small group of forestry professionals realities faced by communities that can based in the Comox Valley on complicate the process of engaging in Vancouver Island. The company the business and management of new has been in business since 1995 forest tenure. These challenges are and specializes in mentoring and complex and extend beyond technical managing small scale forest tenures, issues to encompass broader factors particularly woodlots (including their such as isolation, governance, limited own), as well as providing a full range leadership and business management of professional and technical services capacity, limited experience, to forest landowners, communities, community engagement and support, First Nations, governments, and the trust, and a need for skills training.” forest industry. In light of these challenges, Econ “Over the years, our First Nations has expanded their approach beyond clients have taught us a lot about providing basic forest management planning, implementation, and administrative services. Their wider focus includes facilitating, supporting, and empowering First Nations clients to boldly embark on their new forest enterprise so that its full potential can be realized. Dedicated to treating members, staff, clients, consultants and The First Nations Forest Enterprise external organizations with integrity, respect, fairness and honesty. Development Program embodies a Vancouver Office Kamloops Regional Office suite of services and approaches Unit 102 - 70 Orwell Street 712 Mount Paul Way tailored to each client’s unique North Vancouver BC V7J 3R5 Kamloops BC V2H 1B5 requirements. According to Len, Tel: 604-669-7305 Tel: 250-377-7600 “These interventions are designed Fax: 604-669-9832 Fax: 250-377-7610 to get the tenure ball rolling quickly Toll Free: 1-888-822-3388 Toll Free: 1-888-388-4431

www.fness.bc.ca

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and to keep it running through a series of business cycles in order to generate revenue, experience, a track record with government and business associates, lessons, and community learning opportunities.” This provides a basis for developing business and governance structures while working on strategic priorities and goals. Key enterprise development strategies and interventions include Band Council briefing, tenure strategic planning and governance advice, as well as business planning, monitoring, and evaluation services. The program encourages community engagement, ongoing communication, and networking. Leadership and professional development support is available for First Nations forestry managers (including mentoring, guidance and advocacy support). Skill development training modules and hands on workshops ranging from tenure management to essential forestry skills are also available. Training sessions can be arranged in or outside of your community. Econ’s overall approach and philosophy when working with clients is based on the principles of patience, perseverance, respect, and working in partnership towards a common goal. Practical solutions based on real life experience and individual circumstances are emphasized. Visit [www.econ.ca] for more information.

Dialogue on Development

We salute First Nations housing managers and improving infrastructure First Nations Housing Solutions Inc. has united the First Nations people to create a powerful buying group that delivers quality building materials at lower prices. With over 30 member bands in British Columbia and growing, our ability to provide unmatched prices and services increases as our membership increases. To receive low material prices and importantly, help ensure that all your fellow First Nations receive the best possible materials prices and service, join the First Nations Buying Group. Power in membership – A First Nation Company Suite 62, 1959 Marine Drive North Vancouver, B.C. V7P 3G1 Toll Free: 888-364-7583 Fax: 778-340-1057 www.fnhs.ca

Dunlop’s

STRYKER ELECTRONICS LTD. We specialize in marine communication and navigation equipment including GPS, Radar, Sonar equipment as well as various safety systems. Located at the northern tip of Vancouver island in Port Hardy we service many fishing boats as well as personal yachts 6710 Hardy Bay Rd. Port Hardy, BC V0N 2P0 Email: [email protected]

We salute our North Island First Nations friends 8945 Granville Street, Port Hardy, BC, V0N 2P0 Tel: (250) 949-8313

Call Toll Free 1-888-839-8022 Tel: (250) 949-8022 | Fax: (250) 949-8077

We salute First Nations fisheries managers and their economic development initiatives in Vancouver Island communities

The Keltic Seafoods plant employs, on average, 84 people and is a large contributor to the local economy of Port Hardy on North Vancouver Island.

¸Bait ¸Flake Ice ¸Custom Processing ¸Custom Buying 8625 Glenview Road, Port Hardy, BC V0N 2P0 Phone: 250-949-8088 | Fax: 250-949-8825 www.kelticseafoods.com May 2010 27

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Dialogue on Development

May 2010 29

Dialogue on Development

KLAHOOSE FIRST NATION Box 09 Squirrel Cove, B.C. V0P 1T0 Tel: 250.935.6536

www.klahoose.com

New Klahoose community building has undergone visible progress over the past months. Cement slab floors for the big hall were poured for the main floor area; sub contractors are finishing off the sub floors for the main level of the structure up above. Several truck trailers have arrived with more wall, roof and heavy timber components. Klahoose Memorial Pole Project is nearing completion and the beautifully carved western red cedar will be returning to the Toba valley for its final preparation. Carver, Darren Joseph worked throughout the cold winter months to see the project completed. The Memorial Pole will be taking to trip by barge to IR# 1 in the Toba Valley in Springtime 2010 NEW HOUSING / PARTNERS IN INDUSTRY / STEWARDSHIP OF FORESTS / RUN-OF-RIVER HYDRO DEVELOPMENTS

BUSINESS OPERATIONS (INCLUDING BUT NOT EXCLUSIVELY): A Growing Aquaaculture and Mariculture Portfolio Theechim Management Group

Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation DEPARTMENTS • Employment • Fisheries • Chief and Council • Maintenance • Membership • Addictions

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• • • • • •

R.S Survivors Health Administration Social Development Education Housing

Dialogue on Development New Partnership Forms To Guide Resource Development “The Shatlaqua RM is just getting started,” says Forsite forest management specialist Tony Pereira. Forsite has worked in the St’at’imc territory for 20 years, and the area of Seton Lake includes familiar surroundings. “We are partnered up with First Nations to use local personnel and expertise, and our goal is to focus on the many resource development and forestry opportunities out there.” The Shatlaqua RM is operating at offices owned by Lillooet Tribal Council in Lillooet, BC. “We are a partnership together with the Sekw’el’was (Cayoose), and Tsal’alh (Seton) Bands of the St’at’imc,” says Tony. Shatlaqua (Sáťatqwa7) Resource Management (Shatlaqua RM) is a First Nations-owned business consultancy firm that provides natural resource services and management to forestry, mining, fisheries, and power distribution clients in southwestern British Columbia. “The extraction of resources from traditional territories needs to be a well-guided process,” he says. Shatlaqua RM will provide consulting at the ground floor, looking at First Nation concerns. “The prospect of new developments of all kinds require expertise, including the great prospects for hydro power. These prospects call for consultancy,” Tony says. He notes First Nations

in the area have big prospects in hydro development and forestry, and hydroelectric power development is part of the resource planning required. It takes a long time—sometimes more than two years—to put together business proposals involving INAC and other government agencies. “Often, the Bands are overwhelmed by the size and timing of business proposals in resource development. We formed a partnership with First Nations to work through business proposals in resource development, including new tenure issues in forestry arising from amendments to Bill 13 [the overarching forestry legislation in BC],” Tony points out. Evert Erickson of Forsite says, “The slump in the forest industry puts the onus on the government to make changes. We are way down in our areas, and the business is not bouncing back. This means the planning stages have changed and adapted to the current market.” Forsite has been working in bio-mass forestry opportunities with First Nations. “They have influence in terms of access to fibre,” says Evert, “and rightly so. We’ve been working with First Nations to develop business relationships and understand their goals. We are dedicated to building the resources needed to support and attain economic development goals.”

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Dialogue on Development

The Haida Enterprise Corporation, acting on behalf of the Haida Nation, announced on August 13, 2009, that it has signed a memorandum of understanding with NaiKun Wind Energy Group to acquire 40 per cent of the 396 MW wind energy project being proposed for the Hecate Strait. Future income from part ownership of the wind energy project could provide the catalyst to enable the Haida Nation to create a sustainable economy for Haida Gwaii in areas such as forestry products, fisheries and aquaculture and tourism and recreation, as well as community infrastructure. The Haida Enterprise Corporation and the Haida Nation will be seeking the support of the federal government for this proposal. Tel. 250-287-6345 Toll-Free. 888-389-3224

Husby Group We salute the forestry initiatives of the Haida Nation

The Husby Group is the largest privately held full-service forest management company in Canada. The group directly employs and contracts more than 250 individuals who have earned excellent reputations for delivering on their promises. Husby Forest Products specializes in a wide range of services including Strategic Planning, Forestry, Logging, Lumber Production, Custom Cutting, Stewardship and Environmental Monitoring with a focus on the coastal forest region of British Columbia. Husby is keenly attuned to the complex economic and environmental demands of timber harvesting on the Queen Charlotte Islands / Haida Gwaii. As a result, they have prospered and earned recognition for innovative logging concepts and fish & wildlife protection.

Haida Enterprise Corporation Prepared For New Horizons In Forestry

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aida Enterprise Corporation’s (HaiCO) Bob Brash is excited about prospects for a new level of forestry in the Haida Nation. For nearly a decade, the Haida Nation has been working toward developing a Haida-based forestry license, and the process is finally bearing fruit here in mid2010. “We are ready in many ways,” says Bob, “including the marketing aspects and branding of our company. We have business plans based on the existing Haida tenure of 120,000 CM and are seriously investigating other options for further volumes and tenure.”

qualified forestry personnel ready to start, and these people will be joined by new personnel trained in the business of forestry. “It’s going to take a few years getting up to speed, but we’ll get there sooner than later. Our business model is simple enough,” says Bob. “It will be market-based. Those that pay the most get the wood with a decided focus to encourage local consumption as much as possible.” The markets bearing Haida timber will be domestic and international. The wood is generally high quality. According to Bob, “Any old growth forests have about 20-30% of higher value timber, 40% of medium grade commodity wood, and the rest in pulp.” HaiCO will harvest a timber profile that provides quality construction material for doors, windows, and finishing. Bob says the company will conduct harvesting on a long term sustainable basis that recognizes Haida cultural values. Regardless of the final size of Plans for the future at HaiCo (wholly the company, acquiring the license owned by Haida Nation) include represents a big boost to Haida creating new enterprise with valueforestry. Bob points out, “It will give added forestry products shipping out us the ability to do long-term planning, of the archipelago. “We intend to grow and diligently work towards bringing new businesses with custom-cutting far more benefits directly back to the and opportunities for contractors to communities and hopefully create the develop businesses,” Bob says, and he environment to attract investors locally believes this entrepreneurial push could to create value-added businesses from happen soon. At any rate, the future the more secure log and lumber supply will be driven by trying to maximize that the Haida Nation will have.” local benefits, jobs, security, and a The Haida Nation has a pool of sound future.

6425 River Road Delta, British Columbia V4K 5B9 Tel: 604-940-1234 Fax: 604-940-1236 Email: [email protected] | www.husbyforestproducts.com We salute the independent spirit of the emerging Haida Forestry Probyn Log Ltd., based in New Westminster, has over 30 years of experience in the forestry industry. It’s scope of operations include: Timberland Management, Forestry and Engineering, Domestic and Export Log Marketing, Financing Forest Operations, Timber Valuations and Appraisals, Log Sorting and Quality Control, Administration and Accounting Custom Cutting Probyn Log Ltd. #500 - 628 Sixth Avenue New Westminster, B.C. V3M 6Z1 Tel: 604.526.8545 Fax: 604.526.0891 Email: [email protected] | www.probynlog.com

Edwards & Associates Logging Ltd Operating in Haida Gwaii Since 1971 18-19158 94 Avenue, Surrey, B.C.V4N 4X8 Tel: (604) 513-1883 First Nations Drum 32

Dialogue on Development

Bio-Coal Scenario Fits Neatly Into Plan Regarding Emission Control

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anadian Bio-Coal Energy Inc., based in Vancouver, has issued invitations to tender for the supply of wastewood biomass to a new bio-coal production plant to be located in Terrace BC, the first of its kind in the world. A patented system created by Rotawave Ltd. of the UK uses microwave technology to treat raw wastewood fibre at commercially viable speeds and quantities. According to a company spokesman, the first unit will run 24/7 at a 25-tonneper-hour feed rate. The facility will initially produce 120,000 tonnes of bio-coal per year. Since the system is scaleable, the company expects to step up production to 100-tones-perhour. John Bennett, Board Chairman of Global Bio-Coal Energy Inc. (GBCE) noted a Memorandum of Under standing has been signed with the Northwest BC Forest Coalition. “We are now moving ahead to secure our fibre sources in the Northwest with the issuing of the Invitation to Tender,” he said, adding that negotiations are conluding with an international energy group that is taking 100% of our output and wants up to 10 million tonnes of bio-coal per year.” Mr. Bennett said this is good news for the BC forest industry since it will create new jobs and make fibreharvesting feasible. “We are offering the forest industry a means to by which they can turn their waste wood into an asset rather than a liability,” he said. “It will also contribute to getting rid of beetle-killed pine and forest floor debris that is such a fire hazard.” The entire output from the Terrace plant will be shipped worldwide. Here in Canada, Ontario is the first jurisdiction in to enact timelines for the reduction of emissions from coal-fired power plants, explains Bill McIntyre of GBCE. He said, “The federal government has committed the country to emissions reductions but has not targeted specific industries at this point. The move by Ontario will help create a homegrown market for bio-coal.” Under Canadian strategies, coalfired power plants will have to move to bio-coal, which could begin to reduce

harmful emissions and would not require costly changes to generating stations. GBCE has found a unique new way to extract economic value from timber and forest resources that traditionally have been considered waste. Targeted Energy System Torrefaction is a method used to improve the properties of biomass as a fuel, creating a coal-substitute for power generation plants around the world. High-grade bio-coal is created using low-temperature, low-power microwave activation of decadent wood, often Mountain Pine Beetle killed pine and other waste materials. Bio-coal as fuel works just like coal. “Rotawave Targeted Energy Systems is a patented microwavebased, closed continuous feed process that is used for the low-energy cost, high volume torrefaction of forest and other biomass,” says Bill. “Solid end products from biomass include high calorific value bio-coal. This system discharges no emissions, airborne contaminates or liquid waste back into the environment.” The environmental aspects remain positive, as heat and gas wastes are recycled during the process. Bill says, “The process takes the heat generated in the kiln and diverts it back to the pre-dry stage, and takes gases to create electricity around the facilities.” Some of the advantages of treated biomass, especially in terms of shipping to other markets, include low water content and low oxygen to carbon ratios. Bill adds, “The bio-coal is suitable for micronisation, stable for long term storage, and contains consistent physical properties and does not contain the pollutants associated with natural coal.” Bio-coal technology was developed in Britain and takes advantage of any type of wood, including the crown of a tree and the bark, as well as limbs and roots left on the forest floor after timber harvest. Bill says the process can use anything, including bug-infested wood and the decadent forestry timber found in Tsimshin, Nisga’a and Gitxsan. “If it’s on the forest floor it’s useable,” says Bill. “We can also use cardboard, wood pallets, and biomass from agricultural waste.” Bill says his company subsequently made presentations to several interested First Nations communities in BC, and found they were listening. Bill notes, “We outlined all the benefits in May 2009. The interest level was

GLOBAL BIO-COAL ENERGY INC. INVITATION TO TENDER (British Columbia Suppliers Only) TENDER ID NO: 2010-01 CLOSING DATE: August 31/2010 CONTRACT: Supply wood fibre to Global Bio-Coal Energy Inc. (GBCE) Terrace British Columbia bio-coal manufacturing facility. The supply contract generally consists of the following: 1. Supply up to 300,000 tonnes or portion thereof per year of ground or chipped waste-wood fibre to the GBCE processing site to be selected on a scheduled basis. 2. Waste-wood is generally defined as non-commercial grade fibre such as tree crowns, bark, branches, needles, leaves, sawdust, shavings, pulp logs and related material. 3. Acceptable species include, but not limited to, pine, spruce, fir, hemlock, aspen, birch, willow, alder and hardwoods. 4. Other acceptable fibre includes MPB killed fibre, pallet woods, cardboard, railway ties and clean construction wood. SUPPLIERS MUST: 1. Be bona-fide forest licence holders. 2. Prove long-term (10 years or better) sustainable fibre volumes. 3. Harvest fibre in accord with current government regulations and standards. 4. Demonstrate having the financial, technical and qualified personnel to provide fibre. 5. Be prepared to enter into 10-year contracts. 6. Set realistic market-based prices on a bone-dry basis for fibre. GBCE WILL: 1. Guarantee markets for its bio-coal. 2. Negotiate in good faith, fair and equitable terms for bio-mass fibre. 3. Pay market prices by the bone-dry tonne for bio-mass fibre. 4. Respond to possible future changes in market conditions. 5. Provide timely notice to suppliers as demand for fibre increases. GBCE CONTACT: Tenders may be sent electronically or by mail to: John Bennett C.Eng., M.I. Mech.E,A.M.I. Mar.E Chairman of the Board of Directors Global Bio-Coal Energy Inc. Guinness Tower 1070-1055 W. Hastings Street Vancouver, BC V6E 2E9 If you require additional information or wish to discuss your tender please use the following co-ordinates to contact Mr. Bennett. Cell: 604-761-0075 Tel: 604-683-7955 Fax: 604-683-7970 Email: [email protected]

Cont on page May 2010 33

Dialogue on Development

UBC Forestry Degree Redesigned

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onald Trosper is a professor of forestry at UBC, where the Department of Forestry has modified the standard forest management degree by adding ten new courses about community and First Nation forestry. For a Bachelor of Science in Forestry, Ron says, “We are going to be teaching students of forestry to work with communities, businesses, and First Nations.” The newly designed UBC forestry degree starts in Fall 2010.

forestry have become part of a new management paradigm in the industry. Ron says, “We reduced the core biology and operational content in the courses and made room for more community and Aboriginal forestry instruction, and a specialization was born.” He adds, “We are building innovation into the undergrad degree program to make room for more community and Aboriginal forestry content.” A four-year forestry degree with specialization covers the basics in forestry, including operational behaviour and accounting, plus new courses. According to Ron, Aboriginal forestry courses are required for the specialization degrees, and he expects that up to 50 students per session The forestry industry in BC will specialize in these new degree is changing to meet the times, programs at UBC. and community and Aboriginal

Bio-Coal Cont from page

Coal already has letters of interest expressing interest in more than 3 million tonnes of bio-coal per year.

there so we returned to Terrace in January of 2010. We began to realize it would be First Nations that would drive this technology forward. They have the fibre, and they have the access to freight bio-mass to the facilities.” GBCE is keenly interested in entering joint ventures with Bands in the province. Regarding potential demand, Bill says, “BC produced 1.5 million tonnes of wood pellets last year. A single coal fired power-generating station can use anywhere from 1 million tons of bio-coal to more than 10 million tonnes depending upon the size of the station.” Canadian Bio-

We salute the growth of First Nations housing and infrastructure

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38927 Queens Way, Squamish, BC V8B 0K9 Phone: 1-604-898-1907 EMAIL: [email protected]

Located in Campbell River on the east coat of Vancouver Island Discovery Harbour Marina is a full service marina offering boat moorage, power, water, washrooms, showers, laundry facilities, parking (including boat trailers), fishing licenses and ice. Marine fuel is available. This secure marina is located near Campbell River’s Discovery Harbour shopping Mall and offers easy access to a grocery store, restaurants, pubs and other shopping and amenities. We monitor VHF Channel 66A / Our Call Sign: “DISCOVERY HARBOUR MARINA” / 50’ 02’ 02” N 125’ 14’ 39”W Business Office: 392 - 1434 Ironwood St. Campbell River, B.C. V9W 5T5 Phone: (250) 287-2614 Fax: (250) 287-8939 First Nations Drum 34

Dialogue on Development

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Looking For A Healthier Home?

ood building science practices can provide solutions in the search for a healthy home. According to Chris Schmidt of Island Building Sciences Group, “As a waterproofing and building envelope contractor, we constantly see people living in homes that have poor indoor air quality (IAQ) and are energy hogs because they are so inefficient.”

Chris explains, “Inefficient homes with poor ventilation result in condensation forming, which leads to mould growth. People typically complain about their homes because of condensation on windows, musty smells, flooded basements, mould growth, floor joist rot, water stains, etc. These problems are all related to excess moisture [water or water vapour] inside a home.” In providing necessary repairs to these homes, it is essential to address moisture control and thermal insulation issues. Moisture control involves three elements: water through the foundation, water from air leakage, and water produced by the occupants. Proper thermal insulation keeps the home comfortable and ensures energy efficiency. Building science practices take into account that pesky thing called the Law of Physics. “Sometimes, I wish building codes would also consider that,” says Chris. He explains, “Moisture is the cause of over 90% of all building problems. And from what I’ve seen, simply following local building codes is not sufficient, or we wouldn’t have such a large problem with unhealthy homes.” As the science advances, Chris says “occupants demand more from their homes: consistent temperatures,

decent humidity levels (not too wet to cause mould, not too dry so their eyeballs dry up and fall out), comfortable living conditions, and good sound control, all in an efficient, cost-effective, and convenient manner.” That seems like a tall order. So how do homeowners get more of what they need? Chris says, “Two simple steps: the building envelope should be air-tight, draft proof, well insulated, and not be able to absorb water from rain/ snow. Secondly, really, really good mechanical ventilation to provide moisture control and indoor air quality.” He recommends reading the online article called “Building a Perfect Wall” written by the building science gurus at [www.buildingscience.com]. Chris offers other suggestions as well. “Stop using fibreglass batt insulation,” he says. “In the 16 years that I’ve been involved with fixing moisture-damaged homes, I could have built a small ski hill out of the hideous amounts of rotten, mouldy batt insulation we’ve disposed of. The stuff is crap. It doesn’t work except in the laboratory, and it causes too many problems. I suppose in all fairness I should say to stop using 6 mil poly too, but that’s just my opinion based on my experience.” Chris’ next suggestion: “Stop ventilating crawlspaces. It is amazing how many homes that I see with the furnace in the crawlspace, insulation on the walls, and these big holes in the walls that let the cold air in during the winter and warm humid air in the summer.” Finally, he suggests, “Start following building science practices.” Chris encourages people to do some research on building science. He says, “It will be well worth your time!” Healthy homes have good indoor air quality. Good air quality comes from homes that don’t leak and have great mechanical ventilation. Simple, eh?

STORAGE SOLUTIONS CONCRETE: Turtle Tanks offers a wide variety of containment products using our casting technology. FIBREGLASS: Design, Installation, Maintenance, The Strongest and most Economical Tank Design in the World! ACCESSORIES: Accessories are an important part of a successful installation.

The Turtle Tank Team is always looking for new players 977 Monashee Place, Kelowna, B.C. V1V 1J8 Tel: (250) 863-8372 Open: 7:30 to 4:30 www.turtletanks.com Email: [email protected]

We salute the development of First Nation’s infrastructure May 2010 35

Dialogue on Development

Many Hands Work On Klahoose Building Project

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cCoy Excavating’s Reo McCoy has been working on the multi-purpose building that will house Klahoose First Nation administration and other services for the community on Cortes Island. “We’re waiting to go back in to excavate for sewer and hydro,” Reo says. The company has been there since they broke ground last July and cleared the Klahoose building site in only ten days.

and has ready access to leasing two additional backhoes. “We’re pretty much contained to Cortes Island,” says Reo regarding the amount of work they have to do. The jobs on Cortes Island come on a year-round basis. Reo worked on excavations at the multi-purpose building through the winter. Spearhead Timberworks of Nelson, BC supplied the beams that span the heights and depths of the new facilities in Squirrel Cove. Randy Richmond of Spearhead says, “We’ve been going since the early 1990s. We sell in Canada and USA. It’s usually Douglas Fir timber frame and glue-laminated Douglas Fir beams. We also work in Western Red Cedar.” Reo has been working in the island communities Spearhead Timberworks uses CAD drawing for 30 years. “I was also in logging,” he says, “and I and design to put the wood in shape, and they use ran a mill as a business to supply cedar and timber CNC mills and lathes. “We’re fully automated and on Cortes Island. It was doing well, producing 700 as quick as the design,” says Randy. Spearhead cm3 a year when I sold it.” McCoy Excavating produces pre-manufactured specs and works in operates a couple of backhoes, four dumptrucks, cabinets, doors, stairs, and a variety of projects,

including the building in Klahoose. “We have a bunch of projects with First Nations, a few with work in coastal cedar. The Klahoose project includes cedar beams. It’s a beautiful project, and the site for the building is spectacular. The work

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McCoy Excavation Proud to salute the independent spirit of our brothers and sisters in Klahoose First Nation economic development Resource Management and Consulting: • Forestry • Forestry Management • Power • Forestry Engineering • Fisheries Working on Klahoose First Nation forestry in the Toba Valley with A & A Trading

203- 4400 Marine Ave. Powell River, B.C.V8A 2K1 Ben Lessard/Chris Roddan 604-485-3811

Back Hoes, Dump Trucks Serving Cortes Island Pleased to salute our Friends and Neighbours in Klahoose First Nation and their independent spirit of economic development

Box 132 Manson’s Lands BC V0P 1K0 Phone 1-250-935-6352 [email protected]

We salute the independent spirit of Klahoose First Nation forestry

A&A Trading Ltd. Forestry Management and Marketing

• Proven 25 year track record of maximizing timber values. • Experienced, qualified staff including 5 Registered Professional Foresters • Development capital at attractive rates • Strong customer base in domestic and export markets • Detailed planning and budgeting process to ensure performance

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Vancouver 1210 - 1111 Melville Street, Vancouver, BC V6E 3V6 T: 604--684-2107 F: 604-689-0977 E: [email protected]

Terrace 211 - 4644 Lazelle Avenue, Terrace, BC V8G 1S6 T: 250-615-2841 F: 250-615-2842 E: [email protected]

Campbell River 301-1170 Shoppers Row, Campbell River, BC V9W 2C8 T: 250-286-3353 F: 250-286-3919 E: [email protected]

Sechelt 5083 Bay Road, Sechelt, BC V0N 3A2 T: 604-740-0603 F: 604-689-0977 E: [email protected]

Dialogue on Development Klahoose Cont from page done in the architecture is inspiring,” says Randy. Shane Hedefine runs Hedefine Contracting on Quadra Island. He says, “We are finishing up the roof on the Klahoose project on Cortes Island.” Shane apprenticed on Cortes Island a few years ago. He grew up at Cape Mudge and schooled with a lot of Band members. He made a business career in roofing and likes the work in the Inside Passage. “I’ve done thousands of roofs in the Inside Passage, Stuart Island, Quadra, Cortes. I’m very busy with the amount of work we are doing these days,” says Shane. Hedefine Contracting is a roofing specialist that offers a lot of different ways to build a roof, including metal roofing, shingles and shakes, torch-on roofing, and green (growing) roofs. They also install gutters and leaf

guards. Hedefine Contracting Ltd. is “proud of our reputation as the foremost roofing contractor serving the northern Gulf Islands of British Columbia.” Hedefine Contracting Ltd. is centrally based on Quadra Island and often serves clients on Cortes, Read, Sonora, and Stuart Islands. Pino-Lite Glass installed a curtainwall glazing system on the Klahoose multi-purpose building. Rob Molonari of Pino-Lite sums up construction: “Soft-coat, low-E, state-of-the-art, pressure equalized, no shrinking, lost of window space. Each pane is 60 inches wide by 12 inches tall.” Rob says the project came together for Pino-Lite when main assembly of the glazing began this month. “We will be installing the frames by the end of May.” Rob says the work on Cortes Island is a break from the norm. “It’s exciting to be out there,” he says. “The people of Klahoose are first-class and have treated us very well.

Pino-Lite Glass Ltd. We salute the independent spirit of economic development in Klahoose First Nation

Pino-Lite Glass is on the leading edge of the glazing industry.We specialize in commercial and institutional glazing. We also service existing works. Our expertise includes: • Aluminum storefront • Frameless interior glazing, • Aluminum storefront • All glass interior doors entrance doors • Renovation and tenant • Curtainwall, Skylights improvement projects 508 Hillside Ave. Victoria BC V8T 1Y9 Ph:250-385-1332 | Fax: 250-385-3350

We salute our Brothers and Sisters in Klahoose First Nation for their strong initiative toward independent Economic Development

Qathen Xwegus Management Corporation The mission of QXMC is to develop independance for the Klahoose First Nation through economic opportunities. As a key contributor to the coastal economy, QXMC will identify and invest in opportunities across a broad range of business sectors. The principles that will guide our investment decisions are generation of profits management of resources, creation of employment, development of capacity and sustainability.

Suite 203-4400 Marine Avenue Powell River, B.C.V8A-2K1 Ph: (604) 485-9400 Fax: (604) 485-9448 [email protected] | www.qxmc.org

E J Klassen Motorcade We salute economic development in the North Island First Nations communities

Get behind the wheel of an allnew 2010 GMC Sierra 1500 and receive $8,000 in cash credits. And for a limited time, on most models you’ll get up to $1,500 in chrome accessories on us 9045 Granville Street Port Hardy, BC V0N 2P0 Phone: (877) 658-1671 | Fax: (250) 949-5788 www.klassengm.com

Lewkowich Engineering Associates Ltd. Geotechnical Engineering / Materials Testing On-site sewage system design Central Island Division Suite A-2569 Kenworth Road Nanaimo, BC V9T 3M4 Tel: (250) 756-0355 Fax: (250) 756-3831

North Island Division 2351B Rosewall Cres, Courtenay, BC V9N 8R9 Tel: (250) 334-0384 Fax: (250) 334-9601

Vancouver Studio (604) 683-4131 Victoria Studio (250) 480-7811 www.merrickarch.com | [email protected]

Sierra Glass Contracting We salute the independent spirit of Klahoose First Nation in their economic development initiatives

7469 Tern Street. Mission, BC V2V 5R8 604-834-8242 [email protected]

Quinsam Communications Group Your north island communications specialists! We have the technology and we’re not afraid to use it! TWO CAMPBELL RIVER LOCATIONS! 1437 B 16th Ave, Campbell River, B.C. V9W 2E4 Toll Free:1-877-666-4541 Local: 250-287-4541

162-1436 Discovery Harbour Shopping Centre, Campbell River, B.C. V9W 8C9 Toll Free: 1-877-666-4541 Local: 250-286-3484

May 2010 37

Dialogue on Development

LNIB Construction: Capacity-Built Home Construction In Merritt James Blankinship runs LNIB Construction Ltd. of Merritt, B.C.. Owned by the Lower Nicola Indian Band, the company has a long history in building and renovating houses. According to James, the inBand housing construction company formed when the Nicola leadership began to create a skilled labour pool in the 1990s. That labour pool includes thirteen carpenters and other building trade employees who continue to work for LNIB Construction. Lorna Shuter is in the business and says the company deals with all proposals and contracts in housing repair and renovation on 300 LNIB houses, as well as new construction when the company wins bids elsewhere. They always look for contract opportunities that fit within their abilities, including excavation, foundation work, framing, roofing, and finishing (inside and out). The work that flows to the company also flows from the company because the contractors work for LNIB Construction. All projects are built to code, and structures are assembled by certified building contractors; the result is quality construction done on time. Projects use certified inspection procedures for CMHC, INAC, and Band Administration or financial approvals. The current pool of skilled labour grew out of LNIB Construction’s early days of skill-development.

“Our personnel include half-a-dozen carpenters who apprenticed when LNIB Construction started in the 1990s.” Other building tradespeople in Lower Nicola supply electrical work and plumbing installations. A high demand for teams of builders in the region who can achieve great things in a single season makes LNIB Construction willing to take on projects outside of Lower Nicola. “We are going to work at other Bands, at off-reserve building sites as well. We are working outside Lower Nicola more and more often in our projects. We put out the bids everywhere today,” says James. The company occasionally takes on special projects like the construction of te grandstand beside broadcastbooth facilities at the City of Merritt Rodeo Grounds. On a related note, the Richest Indian Rodeo is underway May 21-24 in the City of Merritt. Lorna’s husband is a former bull and bronc rider who is supervising the gates at what will hopefully become an annual event. Three nights of entertainment include headliners like Shane Yellowbird, Crystal Shawanda, and Derek Miller. Lorna and James are bringing cost-efficiencies into the business planning at LNIB Construction, with First Nation Housing Solutions (FNHS) supplying buying power for building materials. This

James Blankenship, owner of LNIB construction

cooperative endeavor with FNHS includes the distribution of housing material to level the playing field, according to Lennard Brillon, a co-founder of FNHS. The goal at FNHS is to provide companies like LNIB Construction with on-time delivery of high-quality construction material at wholesale prices. Lennard notes, “Bands are often buying at the highest prices in the market then facing additional shipping and handling expenses. This cuts into the ability to bid and still factor in costs of better quality materials.”

James wants the advantages supplied by FNHS because “minimums are not good enough.” James says, “We are building with Home Warranty Protection in our construction. We need to have good material for our skilled workers to meet the standards that will make our constructions last.” Furthermore, the company grew up and operates where the people are. “We are there, and we do the work there,” says James. They did 24 major renovation projects last year.

We salute the independent spirit of housing management in Lower Nicola Indian Band CARPET / LAMINATE / VINYL / HARDWOOD / AREA RUGS 962A Laval Crescent Kamloops, BC V2C 5P5 Phone: (250) 372-1008 | Fax: (250) 372-1028 Toll Free: 1.866.372.1008 | Toll free fax 1.866 372.1009 Email: [email protected]

Aspen Planers Ltd. (Aspen) is an independent, family-owned business founded in 1959 by the Ghog family. Over the years, the business has grown to include an additional Planer mill (formerly Weyerhaeuser Canada Ltd.) and the completion of a major upgrade to the existing breakdown facility in 2003/04 at the Merritt Mill. Future projects include an additional Dry Kiln and continued upgrades to various machine centers. In addition to holding a replaceable Forest License,Aspen is also a joint venture partner with four First Nation Bands: Cooks Ferry; Coldwater; Nooaitch; and Siska. Aspen works cooperatively with the Lower Nicola Band through Shulus Enterprises in the management of Small Scale Salvage opportunities in the Operating area. LUMBER SALES / SORTED TRIM ENDS / RAIL AND POST

2399 Quilchena Avenue, P.O. Box 160 Merritt, B.C., Canada,V1K 1B8 Phone: (250) 378-9266 | Fax: (250) 315-4237 | Sales: (604) 580-2240 www.aspenplaners.ca First Nations Drum 38