In the words of Pacheedat elder Bill Jones who has heartily supported the blockades: “Chop a tree, kill an orca”. The point being, in the web of life it’s all connected! Amin and I went to the Fairy Creek logging blockades (there are currently 3 at specific choke points) because THERE IS ONLY 2.7% OF OLD GROWTH FORESTS LEFT IN BC. Settlers started logging as soon as they arrived and we are at the bottom of the barrel, folks. Logging companies have been ramping up efforts to quickly take down the valuable giants that remain, and without counter action these resplendent, über rich ecosystems will be GONE with only stumps and ravaged hillside remaining.
Let me tell you why you should go, if this isn’t enough to have you reaching for the nearest backpack...
Not only were our five days on the blockade useful from a tactical standpoint, preventing the logging company (Teal Jones) from accessing the forest, it was one of the most psychologically and physically rejuvenating camping excursions we’ve been on. At River Camp, our first night was shared with an environmental lawyer, a geophysical engineer, and master gardener with whom we brainstormed and shared/received much exciting knowledge. Over the course of our days we met mycologists, more environmental lawyers, trail builders, policy writers, natural dyers, business owners, artists, therapists, elders, students, and more - all who care deeply about ancient forests and whose energetic presence gave the medicine of hope for these challenging times. Very close to the camp are a couple of beautiful giant trees and a pristine creek and swimming spot that will take your breath away.
Worried about access?? Well don’t, because River Camp is accessible even with a two wheel drive little car with a bad temper.
On site, there are cooking facilities, outhouse, an elders’ tent, and plenty of hand sanitizer. Covid protocols are followed, and although we consider ourselves to be pretty cautious we were comfortable the whole time.
The relationship between Teal Jones, the government, the local First Nations, and other Average Joe/Jills so to speak is a bit complicated and in a near constant state of flux so I won’t go into much detail here save to say that within the legal, governmental framework there is hope that the logging CAN be stopped if we get enough people behind the cause and actively participating. Although weekend support is good, if you can go during weekdays when the loggers are actually working is awesome.
If anyone has questions about what to expect on the ground, wants coordinates for River Camp, what to bring, or other advice please feel free to reach out. This post has been set to public, so at the very least - PLEASE SHARE. Time is of the essence here!
For more information, please see
www.oldgrowthblockade.con
There is also a fund for the blockade where you can donate, here : https://gf.me/u/yzt3h2
Thank you for reading and sharing!
