The Aboriginal Leadership Initiative (Ahp-ii-cuk) and the Clayoquot Forest Communities Program have been working closely with Ahousaht and a number of other key partners since 2008 to re-open the Wild Side Heritage Trail.

The trail, from the Ahousaht’s main village to the wild outer coast of Flores Island, is a unique showcase of the First Nation’s history and culture. The trail has been continuously used by the Ahousaht people for hundreds of years. The trail was-and still is-used to gather medicinal plants and seasonal food, to collect wood and wood products such as bark for cultural uses, and to go on spiritual quests. 

In the 1990s, Ahousaht partnered with environmental groups to build an extensive boardwalk and trail system, which is now being repaired and restored in collaboration with BC Parks and the BC Conservation Corps. The trail offers a unique perspective to visitors, including cultural education that enhances the users’ experience. It also offers a truly breathtaking wilderness hike on the “wild side” of Flores Island in the heart of Clayoquot Sound.

The Clayoquot Biosphere Trust and the Clayoquot Forest Communities Program are seeking business input for a comprehensive economic analysis covering the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve region and adjacent communities.

The report will provide business owners, local governments and regional organizations with a current and credible snapshot of the regional economy and how it is influenced by broader economic developments at the provincial, national and international level. It will provide an economic snapshot of individual communities, as well as key sectors of the regional economy.

According to Curtis Cook, Executive Director of the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust, “The communities and business owners of the Biosphere Reserve region have not had a recent, credible report like this. Effective decision-making on business matters cannot be fully realized without knowing potential economic influences and impacts. This is particularly significant during a recession.”

Jackie Godfrey, Director for the Clayoquot Forest Communities Program and Central Region Chiefs, concurs: “The opportunity to assess the economic state of both First Nation and non-native communities is critical, particularly as we look for innovative ways to emerge out of the recession with a greener and socially inclusive economy.” (more…)