Part B: Ministry of Agriculture and Lands

New Relationship

The Government of British Columbia is leading the nation in developing a New Relationship with First Nations and Aboriginal people. Guided by principles of trust, and by recognition and respect of First Nations' rights and title, we are building a stronger and healthier relationship between government and Aboriginal people. By working together, we will bring tangible social and economic benefits to Aboriginal people across the Province and narrow the gap between Aboriginal people and other British Columbians.

In support of the New Relationship, the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands is engaged in a broad range of activities.

Business Ventures and Economic Opportunities

  • Engage with First Nations in identifying opportunities in shellfish farming and promoting aquaculture development that supports First Nations and Aboriginal people;
  • support efforts of First Nations 2010 Agriculture Initiative Working Group to identify and capture business opportunities from the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games; and
  • assist in the establishment of Sustainable Agricultural Development Councils to provide leadership in Agricultural Planning for First Nations communities.

Training and Skill Development

  • Support Gitksan Government Commission in establishing an Agriculture Training Centre in Hazelton, B.C.;
  • establish intern positions for technical areas such as biological reviews, inspections and compliance with aquaculture regulatory requirements;
  • encourage establishment of 4-H clubs within First Nations and participate in First Nations schools career fairs;
  • in partnership with the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources, continue to support the Reclamation and Prospecting Project which provides training opportunities in prospecting and environmental assessment for First Nations youth; and
  • provide extension services including workshops on production agriculture issues and one-on-one information and skill development sessions as requested.

Consultation and Accommodation

  • Continue to improve consultation processes for aquaculture applications by ensuring consultations are handled in a timely manner; and
  • with First Nations and the Integrated Land Management Bureau, determine more strategic, efficient and effective approaches to consultation on land dispositions.

Healthy Living

  • Support the ActNow BC initiative First Nations Community Food Systems Project for Healthy Living aimed at raising awareness and improving access to healthy foods as well as encourage agri-food business development.
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