Richard Froese
South Peace News

Mercer Peace River Pulp Ltd. and Woodland Cree First Nation signed a historic agreement to extend their co-ownership relationship of Peace River Logging.

The renewed partnership is a significant step forward for both parties, which extends their positive working relationship and reinforces their commitment to responsible forestry practices, says a joint news release dated Jan. 21.

The new agreement was signed Oct, 1, 2024.

By working together, MPR and Woodland Cree have established one of the most successful long operations in the region.

MPR and Woodland Cree have co-owned Peace River Logging since 2004 and the new agreement ensures the long-term sustainability of the joint venture and secures jobs of more than 80 local people.

Woodland Cree Chief Isaac Laboucan-Avirom says the joint business is valuable to the First Nation.

“This renewed agreement marks an important milestone in our ongoing relationship with Mercer Peace River,” says Laboucan-Avirom.

“It reflects our commitment to responsible forestry and the economic well-being of the Woodland Cree First Nation.”

He adds Woodland Cree is eager to further develop the partnership.

“While we celebrate the progress we’ve made together, we also recognize there is more work ahead to ensure this collaboration continues to grow and benefit our people for generations to come,” says Laboucan- Avirom.

MPR managing director Roger Ashfield echoes those words.

“Mercer Peace River is committed to working with Indigenous communities and we look forward to continuing our relationship with Woodland Cree,” Ashfield says.

“Our partnership with Woodland Cree has been built on mutual respect and a shared vision for a sustainable future.

“Together, we will continue to be dedicated to sustainable management of forest resources.”

MPR is a subsidiary of Mercer International Inc., a diversified global producer of forest products, bioproducts and green electricity with operations in Canada, the United States and Germany.

MPR manages about 2.7 million hectares of forest, which supplies the majority of its annual fibre requirements.

Located in the boreal forest region of northern Alberta, MPR produces both high-quality softwood and hardwood pulp