In 2015, the people of the Upper Skeena region, B.C. were left devastated by the news that their beloved, 50 year old, volunteer-built ice rink had to close immediately due to the building’s unstable roof.

Fortunately, the ‘Heart of the Hazeltons’ group had already been set up the year before, with the aim of raising funds to build a new recreation centre for the area. After securing the needed funding, the project received the go-ahead in and the Upper Skeena Recreation Centre is now in the construction phase.

With our Pacific Inland Resources mill located in nearby Smithers, B.C., West Fraser made a donation of $25,000 worth of lumber to the project.

Peter Newbery, local physician and head of the Heart of the Hazeltons group, said of the donation: “Thank you for this supportive and generous gift from West Fraser. We greatly appreciate your active participation in this hugely significant project for the people of the upper Skeena.”

Hazelton, B.C. is important centre for four First Nation/Band Councils: the Gitanyow, Gitanmaax, Glen Vowell and Kispiox.  An innovative joint owner-operator model has been established between the Regional District, local governments and the Gitxsan. The recreation facility provides a safe, creative and welcoming place for people of the Upper Skeena, utilizing the platform of wellness, recreation and sport as a catalyst for dialogue, hope and action. It provides programs and services for all ages, as well as sporting and cultural activities.