Munsee-Delaware Nation celebrates green energy opportunities

MUNCEY, ON, July 21 /CNW/ - The Munsee-Delaware Nation is celebrating the launch of Munsee Tree Corporation. The first of its kind for a First Nation, Munsee Tree is a renewable biomass energy, high-yield, fast-growing tree farm located on the Nation. Munsee Tree has been the result of strategic partnerships with the Southern First Nations Secretariat (SFNS), Tree Canada and TD Bank Financial Group.

Munsee Tree will harvest and sell tree cuttings and biomass, as well as generate carbon credits that will be sold to large corporations to offset their greenhouse gas emissions. The farm is the result of a joint venture between the SFNS owned Newco, and the Munsee-Delaware Nation; its focus is on green energy and the reduction of greenhouse gas, as well as the economic sustainability of the community.

In agreement to the recent commitment of National Chief Shawn Atleo and Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee of the Union of Ontario Indians, to facilitate green energy policy development that will tap into the green power located on tribal lands, the Nation is moving forward with the implementation and utilization of local renewable energy opportunities in a manner that supports their traditional ways and respects mother earth.

Several partnerships have been formed through the development of Munsee Tree, and the Nation is proud to announce that they will be working closely with Tree Canada and TD during the initial phase of development.

"The business of Munsee Tree is good for the environment and the economics of our Nation. Munsee Tree is the result of the hard work and perseverance of many people. It is a great example of how our Nation must continue to build partnerships that are sustainable and healthy not only for our Nation but the world we all share," said Chief Patrick Waddilove, Munsee-Delaware Nation

Background: Munsee-Delaware Nation

The Munsee-Delaware Nation is located about 25kms south west of London, Ontario. It has a registered population of 547 people with approximately 170 people living on the reserve. The Nation is vibrant and in a continual state of growth as economic development and new and historic community issues continue to evolve.