British Columbia

In 2002, the Métis Provincial Council of British Columbia ("MPCBC") established the British Columbia Métis Assembly of Natural Resources ("BCMANR") in order to develop natural resources policy to support the sustenance and cultural needs of the Métis people in British Columbia. The BCMANR is continuing to consult with Métis citizens with a view to developing a implementing a Métis-made harvesting policy in the upcoming year. MPCBC will also begin issuing Métis Harvesters Cards in the near future.

Unfortunately, since the release of the Powley case, the Government of British Columbia has refused to formally negotiate with MPCBC with respect to Métis harvesting in the province. However, some discussions are occurring at the officials level.

MPCBC continues to push the Government of British Columbia to recognize and respect the implications of the Powley case.

What does this mean for Métis harvesters in British Columbia this year?

MPCBC encourages Métis citizens in British Columbia to continue to exercise their harvesting rights in the province in a manner consistent with the Powley case. Since there is currently no formal Métis harvesting arrangement between MPCBC and the Government of British Columbia for this Fall, Métis harvesters should be aware that they may be charged.

For information on Métis harvesting in British Columbia contact:

Métis Provincial Council of British Columbia
Natural Resources Department
1-800-940-1150 (British Columbia Only)
604-801-5853
www.mpcbc.bc.ca