No information shared with the Mi’gmaq on JDI’s proposal under Shared Landscape Initiative

February 4, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

No information shared with the Mi’gmaq on JDI’s proposal under Shared Landscape Initiative

MTI Chiefs have been made aware of JDI’s proposal to cut old growth forests in protected areas and on Crown lands through media reports and information shared by conservation organizations. We understand this proposal was brought forward under the Government of New Brunswick’s Shared Landscape Initiative.

“It is unacceptable we would have to learn about this proposal through media coverage and conservation groups. From what we can gather, the proposed cutting and land swaps would take place within the Mi’gmaq Title Area and areas identified as existing or potential Indigenous Protected and Cultural Areas (IPCAs). We are still trying to obtain maps and information to verify what we have heard,” said Chief Rebecca Knockwood,” Chief of Amlamgog and Co-Chair of MTI.

The Government of New Brunswick first wrote to the Chiefs about the Shared Landscape Initiative in December 2025. This despite the fact that work has clearly been ongoing on this Initiative since at least the Summer.

The Shared Landscape Initiative is clearly being planned and worked on in Mi’gmaq territory. It is very concerning that the Government of New Brunswick has been working with stakeholders, soliciting their input on areas to protect, and that Irving is engaging with other stakeholders, before and without involving First Nations leadership and MTI especially considering the potential impact on Mi’gmaq Rights.

“From what we have seen, this proposal and the areas identified raises serious concerns about the potential impact on Mi’gmaq rights, as well as the overall health of the Wabanaki Forest that sustains all New Brunswickers. From what we have seen, we are not prepared to consent to forestry activity in protected areas nor are we prepared to consent to our Title lands being transferred to forestry companies,” said Chief George Ginnish, Chief of Natoaganeg and Co-Chair of MTI.

The Mi’gmaq also have secured private lands near the areas identified for "swap" and cutting. These lands are protected by a land trust, Keki’namuanen Msit Wen Wlo’tmnen Nmaqami’kminu Inc. (KMWWN). These lands are to be conserved as IPCA’s. To date, the Government of New Brunswick has been reluctant to recognize and support IPCA’s on Title Lands, which would be owned and protected by the Mi’gmaq in a manner that upholds Indigenous rights and for the benefit of all New Brunswickers.

MTI has written to Minister Herron to express our broader concerns about the Shared Landscape Initiative, and the Irving proposal. This work cannot be undertaken without direct Mi’gmag involvement. We are working with Minister Herron’s oZice to arrange a meeting date to express our concerns.

“We expected more from a government committed to rebuilding relationships and trust with Indigenous Nations. Although we remain open to a meeting, we are extremely skeptical of a process where significant decisions are already being made without our involvement,” said Chief Rebecca Knockwood.

Media inquiries

Jennifer Coleman, jennifer@migmawel.org