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Iisaak commissions totem to commemorate tenth anniversary
Oct 31, 2008 Ucluelet, BC -- The year 2008 marks the tenth year of operations for Iisaak Forest Resources Ltd, a first nations owned forestry company operating in Clayoquot Sound. To commemorate the occasion, Iisaak has commissioned local craftsman James Swan, an hereditary chief, (Ha'wilth), from the Ahousaht First Nation, to carve the intricately detailed totem. Throughout the past decade Iisaak has distinguished itself as a world leader in the practice of sustainable forestry, receiving recognition for their unique forest management approach by various organizations around the world. The company holds Forest Stewardship Council certification, and has received Gift to the Earth distinction from the World Wildlife Fund. The traditional totem will be carved from a large cedar log donated by Chief Bert Mack and the Toquaht Nation who's traditional territory is located near the town of Ucluelet BC. James is ambitious about the project, "... the totem will be 3 dimensional, where the designs will or can be seen all around the pole. This pole will have most if not all our crests as well as a Ha'wilth standing in the middle. " James is currently a full time student attending the University of Victoria; and his efforts will also serve as course work toward his Bachelor of Fine Arts. His goal is to complete this project by late January, as he is currently an active reserve member of the Canadian Scottish Regiment, and is being posted to serve in Afghanistan early in the new year. Iisaak is proud to support this work, as it incorporates strong value-added, educational and cultural components, and will also help James to support his young family while he is finishing school. "We feel this is a fitting way to celebrate ten years of success for Iisaak while also demonstrating the hope and pride we have for James and all of the young men and women in our vibrant and growing First Nations communities" said Derek Drake, Operations Manager.
Contact: Derek Drake RPF 
Artwork by James Swan reveals the intricate design of the totem. 
James Swan and Joe Fraser stand beside log delivered to University of Victoria by Dave Edwards. |
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