Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

The federal government is investing over $250,000 in five forestry-related projects across
western Quebec, including initiatives in the Outaouais region, as part of a larger $13.3 million
funding package aimed at strengthening the competitiveness and sustainability of Quebec’s
forest sector.

Announced on March 20 by Minister of Natural Resources Jonathan Wilkinson, the funding
includes support from the Indigenous Forestry Initiative, which focuses on fostering Indigenous
leadership in forest management and encouraging economic opportunities rooted in
environmental stewardship.

In the Outaouais, the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg community in Maniwaki will receive $50,000 to
enhance its ability to participate in forestry consultations. The project aims to equip the
community with the tools and expertise needed to conduct in-depth analyses of proposed forest
plans, ensuring that responses reflect community values and long-term impacts.

Further north in Kebaowek, two projects are receiving federal support. One, funded at $50,000,
will enable the creation of enhanced territorial maps that integrate historical, cultural, and
ecological data. This resource will support more meaningful collaboration with governments and
industry during planning processes. The second, with $57,700 in funding, will allow the
community to operate its sugar bush for the first full season as an environmentally conscious,
forest-based enterprise.

Additional funded projects include $50,000 for the Timiskaming First Nation in Notre-Dame-du-
Nord to develop consultation tools for forest planning, and $50,000 for the Abitibiwinni First
Nation in Pikogan to create a geomatics decision-making platform, helping the community
engage more proactively in government and industry consultations.

Together, these projects are expected to strengthen Indigenous governance in forestry, support
local employment, and contribute to sustainable land management in western Quebec.
“These strategic investments will not only empower our Indigenous partners, but they also pave
the way for more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable forest practices across our region,” said
Pontiac MP Sophie Chatel. “It’s about creating shared prosperity, grounded in respect for the
land and for the people who care for it.”

Photo: The federal government is investing over $250,000 in five forestry projects across
western Quebec, including in the Outaouais and Pontiac, to strengthen Indigenous leadership,
promote sustainable land use, and support local economic development. (TF) Photo: Melissa
Gelinas