A First Nation in the northern-central region of British Columbia has announced a prohibition on the use of herbicides throughout its entire territory, encompassing Prince George and the Robson Valley. The Lheidli T’enneh First Nation stated that the ban is being implemented due to the adverse effects herbicides, particularly glyphosate, have had on the environment and wildlife that they are responsible for protecting.
During a press conference on Tuesday morning, Lheidli T’enneh Elected Chief Dolleen Logan emphasized the message that no further spraying will be allowed within their territory, expressing hope that this stance will extend to a broader ban on spraying in British Columbia. The Nation expects all government and private industry workers operating in the area to comply with the ban.
Chief Logan mentioned that while the ban ideally applies to private landowners voluntarily refraining from using environmentally harmful products, the primary target is to end the practice of extensive glyphosate spraying over forests in the region. Concerns over the environmental impact of herbicide use have been growing, with environmentalists and researchers in British Columbia and other parts of Canada raising alarms about potential harms.
The Lheidli T’enneh First Nation’s traditional territories cover approximately 41,000 square kilometers and have not been relinquished through treaties or other means. These territories stretch from the Rocky Mountains near Valemount through the Interior Plateau to the city of Prince George.
The City of Prince George stated that it uses herbicides sparingly, mainly to address trees affecting critical city infrastructure like sewer lines. While the city has not directly engaged with the Lheidli T’enneh regarding the ban, they acknowledged the good relationship between the two entities and expressed readiness to explore alternative solutions collaboratively.
The B.C. NDP government has pledged to phase out glyphosate usage, which has historically been employed to eliminate broadleaf trees for the growth of commercially valuable tree species. The Ministry of Forests reported a decline in glyphosate use year over year, even without a complete ban, and has already ceased its application on lands managed by B.C. Timber Sales.
Health Canada last reviewed glyphosate in 2017, affirming that exposures within Canada do not pose harmful effects when the chemical is used correctly following product instructions. Research from the University of Northern B.C. has highlighted the need for a better understanding of glyphosate’s long-term impacts on wildlife and the environment.
Elder Les Baker, a land guardian, expressed concerns over the safety of hunters and gatherers due to herbicide use in the wilderness. He emphasized the importance of halting such practices until the full extent of the harm caused is known. Overall, the community is taking proactive steps to safeguard their environment and wildlife from potentially harmful chemicals.