Upper Nicola Band
Background
Negotiating status
: Government representatives are working to build relationships with the Upper Nicola Band outside of the British Columbia Treaty Commission six-stage treaty process.
Negotiating affiliation
: Currently affiliated with both the Okanagan Nation Alliance and the Nicola Tribal Association.
Location
: Approximately 35 km east of Merritt. Main communities are located on Nicola Lake Indian Reserve #1 and Douglas Lake Indian Reserve #3. (Eight reserves on 1,600 hectares.)
Total Band Members
: 846 (Source: Registered Indian Population by Sex and Residence 2005, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada)
Discussions
In September 2004, the Upper Nicola Band was one of six First Nations that signed the 13th aboriginal enhancement agreement with the province, which is aimed at improving aboriginal student achievement.
In August 2004, B.C. announced $110,000 in funding for the Upper Nicola to allow the band to replace an irrigation line and revitalize farming, and to produce a first-ever community economic development plan.
In February 2005, the B.C. Minister of Forests signed an agreement with the Upper Nicola that provides the band with $2 million in revenue sharing and access to 222,760 cubic metres of timber over five years in the Merritt, Kamloops and Okanagan timber supply areas.
Provincial negotiators undertake discussions with First Nations outside the treaty process on a wide range of topics. Discussions are informal so the level of interaction varies according to specific situations and needs. Initiatives can involve building relationships with First Nations, and addressing concerns associated with asserted traditional territory.
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Final Agreements
Principle
