Nisga’a and Tahltan Nations Acquire Stewart Bulk Terminal

The Nisga’a Nation and the Tahltan Nation have made a pivotal advancement in economic self-determination by acquiring the Stewart Bulk Terminal, a crucial piece of infrastructure located in British Columbia’s northwest region. This acquisition is part of a joint venture with Arrow Transportation Systems, establishing equal ownership in the terminal, which is fully permitted for deep-sea shipping. This facility will facilitate the transportation of copper concentrate and other essential resources sourced from local mines, aligning with the rising demand for critical minerals.

With over half of British Columbia’s exploration and mining activities concentrated in the Northwest, this partnership is expected to significantly boost Indigenous-led development. It represents a strategic move toward long-term involvement in the resource economy for both Nations.

In a statement highlighting the historical significance of this venture, Kerry Carlick, president of the Tahltan Central Government, expressed pride in the collaboration. “Together, we are making history. The acquisition of this strategic asset will drive economic growth, create opportunities, and strengthen our nations’ self-determination,” Carlick said. He emphasized the legacy of their ancestors in this achievement, noting the importance of unity in fostering prosperity for their communities.

The partnership, named Portland Canal Holdings Limited Partnership, has entered a binding agreement to purchase Stewart Bulk Terminals, the operator of the port. The deal is anticipated to finalize in the coming months, contingent upon customary conditions.

Eva Clayton, president of the Nisg̱a’a Lisims Government, spoke about the benefits of the acquisition. “This partnership represents an opportunity for the Nisga’a Nation to be involved in efficiently operating and expanding an integral piece of infrastructure in our territory in a way that is environmentally responsible,” she stated.

In conjunction with the port acquisition, the partnership is also consolidating two local trucking operations to create Portland Canal Transportation Limited Partnership. This new logistics company will cater to the mining sector in the region by merging Arrow’s Stewart Trucking Division with the Tahltan-Arrow Transportation Limited Partnership. Ownership and management of both the port and transportation companies will be evenly distributed among the three partners, ensuring equal representation and profit-sharing.

As part of its commitment to supporting Indigenous initiatives, the provincial government of British Columbia has provided a $5 million grant to facilitate the purchase of the Stewart Bulk Terminal. David Eby, Premier of British Columbia, described the port as a vital hub that will support significant growth in the critical minerals and metals production sector. “We are proud to support this partnership — it furthers reconciliation and creates good jobs for people while demonstrating how British Columbia will become Canada’s new economic engine,” Eby remarked.

The new venture has garnered support from Newmont, which operates the Brucejack and Red Chris mines within the territories of the Nisga’a and Tahltan Nations. Tim Bell, executive vice president of the Arrow Group of Companies, noted the benefits of consolidating operations. “By merging the port terminal and our regional trucking operations, we are creating a vertically integrated supply chain that improves efficiency, enhances safety, and creates long-term, high-quality jobs for all employees.”

The acquisition signifies a substantial step towards economic empowerment for the Nisga’a and Tahltan Nations, as they seek to establish a robust presence in the mining sector while promoting sustainability and responsible development in their territories.