What's Happening?
Teck Washington, a subsidiary of the Canadian mining company Teck, has partnered with the Kalispel Tribe to conserve approximately 752 acres of forested land near the Pend Oreille River. This initiative is part of Teck's 'nature positive' impact program, aimed at mitigating environmental impacts from the closure of the Pend Oreille Mine. The land, previously owned by timber companies, was purchased with $3.5 million from Teck and is now called the Cee Cee Ah conservation land. The Kalispel Tribe plans to manage the land to support diverse habitats and subsistence harvesting, while also restoring native fish populations in the Cee Cee Ah creek.
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Why It's Important?
This collaboration represents a significant step in environmental conservation, highlighting the importance of partnerships between corporations and Indigenous communities. The project aims to enhance biodiversity and support sustainable forest management, benefiting both the local ecosystem and the Kalispel Tribe's cultural practices. By focusing on conservation beyond regulatory requirements, Teck sets a precedent for responsible corporate behavior in mine reclamation, potentially influencing other companies to adopt similar practices.
What's Next?
The Kalispel Tribe will continue to manage the land, focusing on ecological restoration and sustainable timber harvesting. The conservation easement held by the Inland Northwest Land Conservancy ensures the land's use for conservation purposes. Teck remains responsible for reclamation obligations at the mine site, while the tribe's ongoing efforts will benefit the broader community and environment.
Beyond the Headlines
The project underscores the importance of integrating Indigenous knowledge with scientific approaches to land management. It also highlights the potential for corporate entities to contribute positively to environmental conservation, beyond mere compliance with regulations.
