A Case Study in Northern Québec: Indians and the Quévillon Mill – Multiple Use of Resources

Abstract

At present the James Bay region is utilized almost exclusively by James Bay Cree, but they have no voice on the decision-making bodies which are planning resource exploitation. This despite their aboriginal rights to the land and its produce. Cree subsistence is threatened by excessive logging and resultant game depletion, and their health is threatened by mercury released from a pulp and paper mill. Yet it should be possible to sustain hunting and health with carefully regulated forestry activities. Developing a suitable program of resource management that coordinates the needs of the Native people, crown corporations, and private industry requires that Cree have an effective voice in decision-making. Their knowledge and expertise cannot be duplicated by scientific researchers who see a portion of the region for brief periods of time. A program of multiple-use forest and environmental management is possible and it would require the cooperation and full partnership of the Cree.