In the heart of Piikani territory, an innovative partnership between TELUS Environmental Solutions and Piikani Nation is setting a new standard for economic reconciliation. This Indigenous-led initiative not only aims to restore crucial ecosystems but also creates sustainable economic opportunities that respect traditional knowledge and practices. For businesses looking to meaningfully contribute to reconciliation efforts, this collaboration offers a unique opportunity to engage in a way that prioritizes Indigenous leadership and mutual benefit.
The Náápi Otsíthaatan (Oldman River) watershed, integral to Piikani Nation’s cultural and economic practices, has faced significant challenges in recent years. Noreen Plain Eagle, Lands Manager with Piikani Nation, explains, “Over the last few years, we’ve seen shorter seasons with our berries, sweetgrass, mint, harvesting of medicines, and with the availability of fish.” This decline has impacted not only the ecosystem but also the traditional practices and economic opportunities of the Piikani community.
Recognizing the need for a holistic approach to restoration, Piikani Nation has partnered with TELUS to launch a comprehensive project that goes beyond environmental rehabilitation. Building on the success of planting 150,000 trees in 2024, the initiative aims to plant a total of 938,000 native trees and shrubs on high-priority land by the end of 2025, the majority of which are still available for sponsorship. However, what sets this project apart is its focus on long-term, sustainable economic opportunities for the Piikani community.
“It’s creating employment for our community members, it’s creating awareness among our youth, and it’s creating long-term stability in the river valley that’s been lacking for a long time,” Plain Eagle shares. The project has already trained and employed 16 Nation members in specialized skills such as seed collection, cutting, planting, and ATV operation, laying the groundwork for enduring careers in land management and environmental stewardship.
For businesses seeking to engage in meaningful reconciliation efforts, this partnership offers a thoughtful approach. By purchasing trees to support this initiative, companies can:
- Contribute to Indigenous-led economic development
- Support the restoration of ecosystems crucial to Indigenous cultural practices
- Participate in a model of reconciliation that prioritizes mutual benefit and respect
- Align their sustainability efforts with Indigenous values and priorities
It’s crucial to understand that this is not simply a transactional opportunity, but a chance to build genuine, long-term relationships based on trust and mutual respect.
Plain Eagle hints at the potential for expanded collaborations, stating, “As we’re moving forward, there are other opportunities that are starting to surface.” This underscores the long-term vision of the partnership, which seeks to create lasting positive impact for the Piikani community and the environment.
For businesses interested in supporting this initiative and learning more about partnerships with Indigenous communities, TELUS Environmental Solutions offers guidance and opportunities for engagement. This is not just about purchasing trees – it’s about investing in a shared future that respects Indigenous leadership, traditional knowledge, and the principles of economic reconciliation.
To explore how your organization can thoughtfully participate in this transformative initiative, contact telusenvironment@telus.com. Together, we can support a future that honors Indigenous knowledge, supports community-led development, and fosters true reconciliation.