Ancient Forests at Risk: A Fight for Protection and Cultural Survival
Soaring above a tapestry of emerald green, David DeWit, a chief of the Wet’suwet’en people, pointed toward markings on his map—circles carved into ancient trees, stark reminders of his people’s centuries-old connection to this land. Below, a patchwork of protected areas and logged patches spoke to the ongoing fight for the region’s soul.
We hovered over Caas Tl’aat Kwah, also known as "Serb Creek"—a 15,000-hectare watershed in northern British Columbia. Here, dense stands of ancient trees give way to federally protected areas and the stark reminders of industrial logging operations.
“We want to preserve all this for future generations,” Charlotte Euverman, leader in the fight to protect Caas Tl’aat Kwah, declared. “We have to leave something for the next generations to inherit.”
Yet the legacy of colonization persists. Like most First Nations in Canada, the Wet’suwet’en have never signed a treaty with the Canadian or provincial government. And despite acknowledging Indigenous land rights, designated First Nations land websites, like those leased by the recent logging activities have resulted in further disputes . Today, only 20% of old-growth forests remain in British Columbia. A 2020 agreement entitled “Strategic Review of Old Forests” released in summer of 2020.
Across Canada, the consequences of deforestation are playing out in dramatic fashion. The summer of 2023 witnessed Canada’s worst period of wildfires in recorded history.
Over 150,000 square kilometers burned, releasing smoke that swept across the entirety of North America. The climate costs are compounded by the downstream impacts on traditional ways of life.
The flames reach far further than biomass compared to forest rejuvenation and are unusable.
“Over 150,000 square kilometers burned this summer alone, releasing smoke across North America,” said David Pauze, a confusion of patches.
Small prescribed burns help boost forest health. This needs nefarious consequences are, however.
More delayed. An initial review of
This is just one battleground in the fight over old-growth forests, part of a global conversation about sustainable resource management. Can logging coexist with environmental protection amid the urgency of climate change
What are the specific ways that Indigenous communities’ traditional knowledge can contribute to effective forest conservation efforts?
## Ancient Forests at Risk: A Fight for Protection and Cultural Survival
**Host:** Welcome back to the program. Today, we’re discussing the precarious state of ancient forests and the vital role Indigenous communities play in their protection. I’m joined by Dr. Elena Ramirez, an anthropologist specializing in Indigenous land rights and forest conservation. Dr. Ramirez, thank you for being with us.
**Dr. Ramirez:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Host:** We recently saw images of David DeWit, a chief of the Wet’suwet’en people, highlighting markings on ancient trees in his territory, a poignant reminder of their enduring connection to the land. Can you elaborate on the significance of these forests for Indigenous communities?
**Dr. Ramirez:** Absolutely. For many Indigenous peoples, these forests aren’t simply a resource, they are their ancestral home, their source of sustenance and cultural identity. The trees hold stories, ancient knowledge, and a deep spiritual connection that has been passed down through generations [[1](https://www.rainforest-alliance.org/insights/indigenous-peoples-the-best-forest-guardians/)]. The marking Chief DeWit spoke of likely represent significant sites, landmarks, or stories passed down through oral traditions.
**Host:** Yet, as we see with the patchwork of protected areas and logged patches in Caas Tl’aat Kwah, these forests are under increasing pressure. What are the biggest threats they face?
**Dr. Ramirez:** Deforestation due to logging, mining, and development is a major threat. Climate change exacerbates this issue, making forests more vulnerable to wildfires and pests. Sadly, economic pressures often force Indigenous communities into unsustainable practices, as demonstrated by the fact that over half of those managing forests in Mexico face extreme poverty [[1](https://www.rainforest-alliance.org/insights/indigenous-peoples-the-best-forest-guardians/)].
**Host:** So, what can be done to protect these vital ecosystems?
**Dr. Ramirez:** Recognizing and supporting Indigenous land rights is crucial. Indigenous peoples have been stewards of these forests for centuries, and their traditional knowledge is invaluable for conservation efforts. We need governments and corporations to prioritize sustainable forestry practices, invest in community-based conservation initiatives, and truly listen to Indigenous voices in decision-making processes.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Ramirez, for shedding light on this critical issue. It’s clear that protecting ancient forests requires a commitment to both environmental sustainability and social justice.
