Economic Development
The Uchucklesaht Tribe seeks out development opportunities for our Citizens that are socially, economically and environmentally sustainable while fostering a safer, stronger and more financially secure community.
What we do
Under the guidance of the Economic Development Manager, in accordance with our values and laws we identify opportunities for the Uchucklesaht Tribe and its Citizens to pursue business and employment initiatives both on and off Uchucklesaht lands.
The foundation of Uchucklesaht’s economic development is to contribute to the prosperity of our people and the sustainability of the lands and waters of our territory..
Forestry
The Uchucklesaht Tribe Government is committed to developing and implementing a comprehensive Land Use Management Plan that carefully considers the environmental, social, and economic impacts of all forestry activities. This plan is grounded in our Sacred Principles and reflects our deep respect for the land, water, and all living beings.
In addition to traditional forestry, we are actively exploring opportunities in the management and harvesting of non-timber forest products such as naturally growing, traditional plants, berries, and botanicals. These resources hold the potential to support sustainable economic development without the need to harvest trees.
We have also taken meaningful steps to have a stronger voice in forest management. This includes the recent acquisition of a renewable forest licence from Interfor, in partnership with Probyn, as well as the acquisition of a non-renewable forestry licence from BC in TFL 44.
Through these actions, we aim to support our community, honour our traditions, and protect our lands for generations to come.
Fisheries and Aquaculture
Responsible management of commercial fisheries and aquaculture operations enables consistent revenue streams while leveraging the traditional skills and knowledge of our Citizens and respecting the natural balance of our local ecosystem.
Economic Development Initiatives
Thunderbird Spirit Water
Thunderbird Spirit Water is one of the Uchucklesaht Tribe’s most successful commercial products, winning the Gold Award for Taste at the FineWaters International Water Tasting Competition in 2021, Bled, Slovenia, while raising revenue for our community and for charitable purposes.
Pete’s Mountain Meats
Pete’s Mountain Meats is located in the historic Alberni Post Office at the high-profile corner of Johnston Road (Highway 4) and Gertrude Street.
It is a traditional European-style delicatessen popular for its premium, hormone-free meats, and specialty products, including their famous made-to-order custom sandwiches!
Pete’s Mountain Meats also offers a healthy, wide range of other products such as marinated chicken and pork, wild salmon fillets, sausages, fresh-baked goods, and wholesome snacks.
Thunderbird and Nucci Buildings
Our government operates several buildings in Port Alberni – The Thunderbird, which garnered an award from Vancouver Island Real Estate Board and offers high-quality rental apartments; and the multi-unit, multi-use Nucci buildings, all of which help to serve the business, administrative, cultural and residential needs of UTG.