(Behchokǫ̀, NWT – March 7, 2025) – The Tłı̨chǫ Government, in partnership with the Government of Canada, is proud to announce a major investment in land restoration and climate resilience through the "Preserving Our Land, Preparing for the Future" tree planting initiative.
Through Natural Resources Canada’s 2 Billion Trees (2BT) program, this initiative will see 12 million trees planted over the next seven years on Tłı̨chǫ lands. The project represents a $53 million joint investment, with $44.8 million from the federal government and $8.2 million from the Tłı̨chǫ Government.
This initiative will support local reforestation efforts, wildlife conservation, and community resilience against climate change while creating training and employment opportunities for Tłı̨chǫ citizens. A key component of the project is the integration of Tłı̨chǫ Knowledge with modern forestry practices, ensuring long-term benefits for the land, wildlife, and future generations.
Grand Chief Jackson Lafferty emphasized the importance of this project, stating:
"The land is our home, and we have a responsibility to protect it. This project will help heal the land, support wildlife like the boreal caribou, and create opportunities for our people. Through this partnership, we are not only restoring forests but also strengthening our communities." - Grand Chief Jackson Lafferty
The investment will also fund the construction of greenhouse facilities for a tree nursery, providing a sustainable source of seedlings while supporting traditional land stewardship practices.
Michael V. McLeod, Member of Parliament for the Northwest Territories, highlighted the significance of the project:
"Canada is proud to support the Tłı̨chǫ Government in this ambitious tree-planting initiative. Indigenous leadership in conservation is critical, and this project will help restore lands impacted by wildfires while contributing to Canada’s broader efforts to combat climate change and biodiversity loss." - Michael V. McLeod, MP
Following the devastating 2023 wildfires, which reached the edge of Behchokǫ̀ and destroyed homes, this initiative will also apply FireSmart principles to enhance community safety and resilience.
This partnership between the Tłı̨chǫ Government and the Government of Canada underscores a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and Indigenous-led climate action.
For more information, contact:
Sarah Hunt
Vice President of Human Resources and Communications
Tłı̨chǫ Investment Corporation
Ph: 867-766-4909 Ext. 1003
Web: www.tlichoic.com
Mehrnoush Zeidabadi
Communications Manager (Acting)
Tłı̨chǫ Government
Email: [email protected]
