British Columbia 2023- Yunesit'in rehabilitation

PROJECT REPORT

BRITISH COLUMBIA 2023- YUNESIT'IN REHABILITATION

Dearfriend,

Thanks to your support, a total of 200,000 trees were planted to restore 98.4 hectaresoflandinBritishColumbia.

Planting trees in areas that have been degraded or deforested helps the environment by accelerating and assuring the re-establishment of healthy forests. Through reforestation, the canopy is restored, ecosystems are made whole,andbiodiversitycanthrive.

None of this would be possible without you. On behalf of everyone at One Tree Planted,thankyou!

What follows is a report outlining the project you supported in British Columbia.Ihopeyouenjoyreadingitandtrulyfeeltheimpactyouhavemade.

The Yunesit’in Caretaker Area, managed by the indigenous Yunesit’in Government, has endured significant challenges, including extensive timber harvest, forest health epidemics such as the Mountain Pine Beetle outbreak in the 1990s, and catastrophic wildfires. These events have profoundly affected the ecological health and functioning of the pine and Douglas-fir dominated ecosystems in the region. The objective of the British Columbia 2023 Yunesit'in Rehabilitation project was to establish a sustainable landscape, incorporating fuel mitigation measures to mitigate the impact of future wildfires. Additionally, the project aimed to rehabilitate forestland that would otherwise undergo slow recovery to healthy standconditionsfollowingtheinitialmountainpinebeetleinfestation.

TREE SPECIES PLANTED

In the context of the region, where extensive harvesting, health epidemics, and wildfires have ravaged the ecological balance of pine and Douglas fir-dominated ecosystems, the Yunesit’in Government has emerged as steadfast stewards, deeply invested in the preservation of the Caretaker Area's forests and its inherent values.

The area designated for reforestation was previously a mature pine stand devastated by the Mountain Pine Beetle outbreak in 2010. Compounding the challenge, remaining trees succumbed to the parasitic Mistletoe. Prior to planting, the infected overstory had to be carefully removed to protect the new seedlings. Spanning 98 hectares, 5 conifer species were meticulously planted. To curb Mistletoe spread, a 20-meter buffer of resistant species like aspen and larch was established along the block's perimeter, safeguarding the interior pine plantings. Furthermore, the inclusion of ponderosa pine, lodgepole pine, and Douglas-fir — recognized pioneers in regional landscape rejuvenation — were selected to bolster therestorationefforts.

SPECIES PLANTED THROUGH THIS PROJECT

Lodgepole pine (Pinus contort)

Ponderosa pine (Picea glauca x engelmannii)

Western larch (Larix occidentalis)

Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii)

Trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides)

TREE SPECIES IDENTIFICATION & USE

Trembling aspen, also known as Populus tremuloides, is a deciduous tree native to North America, particularly thriving in the diverse ecosystems of British Columbia. Identified by its distinctive leaves that quiver with the slightest breeze, trembling aspen stands out with its smooth, chalky-white bark, which contrasts with its bright greenfoliageduringthesummermonths.Growingtoheightsrangingfrom20to80 feet, this resilient species forms extensive clonal colonies, often spreading through rootsystems,creatingvisuallystrikinggrovesacrossthelandscape.

The trembling aspen plays a vital role in the ecosystem, offering a range of ecological services. Its rapid growth and ability to colonize disturbed areas contributes to soil stabilization, erosion prevention, and watershed protection. Furthermore,itsleavesprovideessentialnutrientsastheydecompose,enrichingthe soil and supporting diverse understory vegetation. Beyond its ecological contributions, the trembling aspen serves as a crucial habitat and food source for various wildlife species, including birds, mammals, and insects. Its importance in providing nesting sites, shelter, and forage underscores its significance in fostering biodiversity within British Columbia's forested landscapes. As the most widely planted species in the reforestation project, the trembling aspen stands as a cornerstone in efforts to restore and sustain the region's diverse ecosystems for generationstocome.

Lodgepole pine, scientifically known as Pinus contorta, is a conifer tree native to NorthAmerica,thrivinginavarietyofregionalhabitats,rangingfromcoastalforests to subalpine zones. Recognized by its slender, straight trunk and distinctive paired needles,thelodgepolepinetypicallygrowstoheightsrangingfrom15to30meters, forming dense stands that dominate the landscape. Its bark, characterized by dark furrows and deep ridges, provides protection against wildfires and insect infestations,enhancingitsresilienceinanareathreatenedbythis.

In the ecosystem, the lodgepole pine plays a multifaceted role. Its extensive root system helps stabilize soils, preventing erosion and landslide occurrences. Additionally, the dense canopy of lodgepole pine forests provides habitat for numerous wildlife species, including birds, small mammals, and insects, contributing to overall biodiversity. Further, the seeds of lodgepole pine serve as a vital food source for various wildlife, while its canopy offers shade and shelter for understory vegetation. As the second most planted species in the reforestation project, lodgepole pine is ideal for sustaining the diverse forest ecosystems of BritishColumbiaandensuringthecontinuityofecologicalprocesses.

YOUR IMPACT ON THE MAP

The British Columbia 2023 - Yunesit'in Rehabilitation project supported the planting of 200,000 native conifer trees across nearly 100 hectares of land near Hanceville, British Columbia. Beyond the immediate benefits to the local ecosystem and indigenous communities, the impact of this project resonates regionally and globally. Regionally, the reforestation effort contributes to the restoration of vital habitats, fostering biodiversity and enhancing ecosystem resilience against threats like wildfires and climate change. Moreover, the project serves as a model for collaborative conservation initiatives, showcasing the effectiveness of partnerships between government agencies, indigenous communities, and private organizations in achieving shared environmental goals. Globally, the reforestation of degraded lands in British Columbia represents a tangible step towards addressing climate change, as forests play a crucial role in carbon sequestration and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. By restoring healthy forest ecosystems, the project contributes to a broader, global effort to combatclimatechangeandpreservetheplanet'sbiodiversity.

LANDSCAPE RECOVERY

This reforestation project promises myriad ecological benefits, fostering a profound landscape transformation. Situated within the Chilcotin region, where lodgepole pine stands once reigned supreme, the devastating impact of the Mountain Pine Beetle between 2000 and 2010 left much of the area depleted. Whileinitialsalvageeffortsprioritizedharvestingdeadpine,economicallymarginal zonesliketheonesinthisprojectweredeferreduntillaterstages.

The paradigm shifted with the Hanceville Fire of 2017, redirecting focus to salvagingburnedtimberandrelegatingtheprojectareatothesidelines.Now,over two decades since the pine beetle infestation, the remaining stands face a critical juncture. Yet, amidst the challenges, signs of rejuvenation emerge as immature lodgepole pines regenerate under the aging canopy. However, remnants of mistletoeandElytrodermaloom,threateningthevitalityofthisnewgrowth.

Through strategic efforts like the British Columbia 2023- Yunesit'in Rehabilitation project, we aim to halt the encroachment of disease and kickstart the resurgence of healthy, thriving forests. Mature pine stands not only offer critical habitat and thermal cover for wildlife, but also play a pivotal role in regulating snowmelt rates, vital for maintaining hydrological balance. Furthermore, by diversifying tree species, this restoration work will enrich the ecosystem, fostering resilience and longevity.

Allinalll,thisinitiativeextendsitsbenefitsfarbeyondtherealmoffloraandfauna, promising a sanctuary for a myriad of wildlife species, from mule deer and moose toaerialcreatureslikeeaglesandsongbirds.Intheintricateweboftheecosystem, everycreature,largeorsmall,standstogainfromtherebirthoftheseforests.

DOCUMENTING YOUR IMPACT

Throughauthenticandinformativestorytelling,wehelpdonorsrelatetothepeople who plant their trees and to the impact they're making for the planet. We share photos, videos, and updates from our global projects across our social media, website, and other media to create a personal connection to the incredible work happeningontheground.

PHOTOS FROM YOUR PROJECT

COMMUNITY BENEFITS

Knowledge Dissemination

A cornerstone of this reforestation project's success lies in its commitment to knowledge dissemination and training initiatives. Standard planting training programs have been thoughtfully developed and implemented to equip workers with the essential skills and techniques required for effective tree planting. Additionally, specialized training modules focused on bear awareness and safety protocols were integrated into the program to ensure the well-being of workers

REFORESTATION IS A NATURE-BASED SOLUTION TO THE CLIMATE CRISIS, AND A CRITICAL PART OF THE PROVINCE’S MANDATE TO TAKE ACTION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE. YOUR DONATION HAS ALSO ENABLED US TO REALIZE MORE CARBON SEQUESTRATION IN A SHORTER PERIOD OF TIME. WE APPRECIATE THE CONTRIBUTION TO THIS, AND OTHER PLANTING PROJECTS BY ONE TREE PLANTED, AND LOOK FORWARD TO COLLABORATING ON FUTURE REFORESTATION OPPORTUNITIES.

INDIGENOUS EMPOWERMENT

The trees planted in this project signify more than just a reforestation effort: they represent a pivotal step towards indigenous empowerment and community resilience. By cultivating a landscape that fosters sustainable growth and mitigates the risk of catastrophic wildfires, these trees lay the foundation for a more resilient ecosystem. The stands targeted for rehabilitation, including those affected by the mountain pine beetle epidemic in the early 2000s and industry cutting permits surrendered by the Yunesit’in Government and Xeni Gwet’in, align closelywiththesharedvisionoutlinedintheNewagweẑʔan:CommunityVisionand ManagementGoalsforDasiqoxTribalPark(2018).

Incollaborationwithourplantingpartners,wehaveimplementedacomprehensive approach to stand rehabilitation, encompassing reduction of downed and dead woody material, removal of solid wood for community heating, mechanical site preparation, and reforestation. Leveraging their own resources and business partnerships, the Yunesit’in community has played an integral role in driving these objectivesforward.

The benefits reaped by the Yunesit’in community from these endeavors are manifold.Firstly,theutilizationofresidualfiberforcommunityheatingexemplifies a sustainable approach to resource management, with firewood supplied to every household in the Yunesit'in community of Stone. Moreover, the project has generated employment opportunities for community members, with sawyers and laborers from Yunesit’in Development Enterprises securing sustainable work over the project's lifetime. Notably, this year's planting project saw the employment of three Planting Quality Assessment surveyors locally, two of whom worked for a First Nation joint venture company with majority ownership held by Yunesit’in, and one employed by a development company owned solely by Yunesit’in. Furthermore,theseinitiativescontributetotheprotectionoftimberandnon-timber forest values, ensuring the preservation of healthy ecosystems for future generations. Through such collaborative efforts, indigenous empowerment and sustainable development are not just aspirations, but tangible realities, driving positivechangewithintheYunesit’incommunityandbeyond.

U.N. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

THIS PROJECT CONTRIBUTED TO THE FOLLOWING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS:

WHAT ARE SDGS?

Sustainable development entails seeking out solutions that not only boost the economic outcomes of developing and poorer nations, but also work to limit (or eliminate)ourimpactontheplanet.Treesareonesuchsolution.

From creating jobs and reducing hunger to improving gender equality, cleaning air and water, absorbing carbon, protecting life on land and water, and more, planting treescanaddressall17sustainabledevelopmentgoals.

“It is truly inspiring to witness collaboration among diverse environmentalstewardstransformlandscapesandlivelihoodsalike. If nothing else, this project serves as a testament to the power of unityinsafeguardingournaturalresources.”

Meghan Danny Global Projects Support Specialist

Stephanie Rochemont Project Manager Canada & Northeast US