Nuchatlaht First Nation Gains Aboriginal Title

0:00British Columbia's Court of Appeal just flipped the lower court ruling, granting the New Kotlin First Nation Aboriginal title over their full two. 110 square kilometer claim on remote Newka Island, off Vancouver Island's west coast. This covers only provincial government land with no private property involved. The decision rests on a broader view of occupation, looking beyond just village sites to longstanding practices by harvesting trees and bark inland. Appeal judges said the lower court undervalued the new shot lots way of life and control over resources before European contact. The new shot lot are celebrating this win as a foundation for their future, focusing on helping members and stewarding the land. Chief Jordan Michael called it a big step forward, though plenty of work remains. Meanwhile, the BC, Attorney General is reviewing the ruling and its options. This could ripple out to other First Nations claims, especially after six groups intervened. It also means provincial laws like the Forest Act and Park Act don't apply there.

1:04Newka Islands have been heavily logged, and the nation plans to rehab forests, boost wild salmon runs, and build better housing. broader context ties into BC's history of tidal winds, like the Cowwich and Trives case including urban lands. With marine parts already shifting and eyes on reconciliation, this sets the states for real change on the ground. I'm Corey with the story, and you've been listening to Vancouver News today, AI-powered local news.