Grassy Narrows

In May 2008, Ontario Minister of Natural Resources Donna Cansfield and Grassy Narrows First Nation Chief Simon Fobister signed a memorandum of understanding reflecting a commitment to build a strong, positive, long-term relationship. Weyerhaeuser has supported resolution of the Grassy Narrows First Nation’s long-running differences with the province, and will support this MOU. Company leaders, including the president of Weyerhaeuser, had urged Premier McGuinty to work with Grassy Narrows at the highest level. We were supportive when, in September 2007, Premier McGuinty, in cooperation with Chief Fobister, appointed former Supreme Court Justice Frank Iacobucci to identify the concerns of the Grassy Narrows community and advise the ministry on addressing those concerns. We extended our full cooperation to Justice Iacobucci in his work.

Weyerhaeuser respects the rights of aboriginal peoples and is committed to building mutually beneficial relationships with aboriginal communities. Read about our policy and framework for building relationships with Canada's aboriginal peoples.

We draw employees, suppliers and contractors from aboriginal communities in the areas where we operate. In Ontario, we involved First Nations extensively during construction of the TimberStrand® Laminated Strand Lumber mill in Kenora, and approximately 25 percent of our work force at the mill is aboriginal.

Grassy Narrows is one of 28 First Nations in Ontario who are parties to an 1873 treaty. The Grassy Narrows reserve is within an area known as the Whiskey Jack Forest. The provincial government currently licenses this forest to AbitibiBowater, Inc., who is responsible for all forest management. AbitibiBowater sells hardwood from the area to Weyerhaeuser’s Kenora mill. In 2000, Grassy Narrows members brought a constitutional claim against the government of Ontario challenging its authority to approve licenses in the area. The court decided that the issues required a full trial, which is pending. AbitibiBowater has honored blockades erected by some Grassy Narrows members, and has engaged in efforts with the province to resolve the issues.

Weyerhaeuser is committed to supporting the process led by Justice Iacobucci to find lasting and inclusive solutions to the issues around the Whiskey Jack Forest.