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The Supreme Court decision left a handful of non-native tourism operators stranded on small islands of private lands surrounded by much greater First Nation lands, and with no way to resolve conflicts, including over critical access to former Crown lands for recreation.

William said in an interview that the ecotourism operators are free to continue with the recreational activities for which they had permits previously with the province government, but that he is concerned that activities not permitted are being conducted. He noted he hasn’t experienced the same level of problems with private landowners elsewhere in the territory, although one in the Nemiah Valley, Elkin Creek Ranch, is also concerned.

He said he is willing to negotiate bridging agreements that would allow operators to continue, but also noted that the Xeni Gwet’in still have to decide what they want to do with their lands long-term.

McCutcheon said a buy-out of the operators now seems the only viable option, and William is not opposed, provided senior governments cough up the cash. “If any wanted to sell, we’re open to that,” said William. “If B.C. and Canada are willing to cover that, we’re certainly in favour. We’d work with them.”

Dave Wolstenholme, owner of Chilko Lake Lodge, argued that the current situation would never happen in downtown Vancouver.

“If this was a debate over land at Georgia and Burrard, the government would have already resolved the issue,” he said. “We are hopeful, but not confident, that the Canadian government will fix this injustice.”