FORT FRANCES — A First Nations-owned bio-refinery in Fort Frances is one step closer to becoming reality.
Boundary Waters Forest Management Corporation (BWFMC) has announced that it will enter into a fibre supply business agreement with Wanagekong-Biiwega’iganan Clean Energy Corporation (WBCEC), a corporation owned by 10 First Nations in the District of Rainy River.
The agreement will mark a step forward in supporting sustainable economic development in the region while aligning forest resource management with emerging clean energy initiatives, according to a press release issued Thursday.
Fort Frances-based forest management company is advancing the development of a bio-refinery in Fort Frances that would produce ultra-low-carbon renewable fuels using wood residues as its primary feedstock.
“Partnering with WBCEC represents a forward-looking opportunity to support local Indigenous-led clean energy innovation while ensuring responsible and sustainable forest resource use,” said Ian Armstrong, general manager.
“We are committed to working collaboratively to explore mutually beneficial solutions that align with our forest management responsibilities and the long-term vision for the Rainy River District.”
Janice Henderson, WBCEC board chair, said this partnership is an important milestone for WBCEC’s bio-refinery project.
“Access to a sustainable fibre supply is essential to advancing our clean energy vision, and we are proud to be working with BWFMC to develop solutions rooted in stewardship, innovation and Indigenous leadership.”
The agreement will enable the utilization of non-merchantable forest fibre, which will support both ecological stewardship and job creation through the development of a renewable fuel facility.
WBCEC is an Indigenous-led business which focuses on building a clean energy future grounded in environmental responsibility, technological excellence and inclusive economic participation.
