VANCOUVER - Greenpeace applauded the Squamish Nation for its efforts to develop a land-use plan for the Nation's territories that is both ecologically and socially responsible, allows some sustainable logging to proceed and may herald an end to conflicts in the region.

Some critically important rainforest valleys within the Squamish Nation's territories have been the subject of heated debate in the past few years, as these last remaining pristine valleys in the area have been clearcut. The draft land-use plan released on June 19, 2001 by the Squamish Nation adopts a more holistic and positive approach to land-use planning. These important rainforest valleys will now be designated as "Wild Spirit Places" in which no logging will occur, while other areas have been set aside for restoration. In areas that have already been fragmented by logging, a more responsible approach that shifts away from clearcutting will be pursued.

"The Squamish Nation has displayed true leadership and vision in beginning to develop this plan and we hope their approach will be supported by a broad array of stakeholders," said Tamara Stark, Forests Campaign Coordinator for Greenpeace Canada. "There are some elements of the draft plan that may require further refinement in regards to aspects of protection or definitions of appropriate logging, but this plan is a far more comprehensive approach to responsible land use planning than any other we've seen for the area."

The Squamish Nation has extended an offer to stakeholders to provide input into the plan for their territory, and Greenpeace has written to the Chiefs and Council of the Squamish Nation to accept their offer. "We very much look forward to providing comment, and we congratulate the Nation on the steps they have taken thus far," Stark said.

The Squamish Nation Land Use Plan can be viewed on the Squamish Nation website www.squamish.net. -30-