The District of Squamish and Squamish Nation signed a memorandum of understanding in July 2025 that included creating a Land Back Task Force to research and discuss possibilities for returning public lands to Indigenous governance. This does not impact private land or residential property.
Within the MOU, “Land Back” refers to exploring possibilities for the return or co-management of public lands in ways that respect Squamish Nation Rights and Title, according to the District. The District says the agreement does not include immediate land transfers. Instead, the Land Back Task Force will research, learn, discuss and engage with Squamish residents and Squamish People on the topic. The task force will include representatives from both governments and may involve community members, the District says.
Development on Cheekeye Fan lots C, 2, 9 and 10 (Brackendale Farmers Institute Park) will be paused while exploring potential land transfer to Squamish Nation. Both governments have agreed to explore the potential transfer of this Crown land to the Squamish Nation, according to the District. They will also consider developing a co-created vision and land use plan for the area.
Six priority activities
The MOU outlines six priority activities for the two governments, according to the District:
The District will issue a formal apology acknowledging the impacts of colonization on Squamish People, lands and waters.
Both governments will co-develop a referrals agreement to recognize Squamish Nation jurisdiction and ensure meaningful engagement in land-related decisions.
They will collaborate on community planning, including updates to the District’s Official Community Plan and the Squamish Valley Community Development Plan.
The governments will work to expand inclusive access to recreation by removing barriers to programs, spaces, and services.
They will create the Land Back Task Force to explore returning public lands to Squamish Nation.
Development on Cheekeye Fan lots will be paused while exploring potential land transfer to Squamish Nation.
The District says the agreement does not create new legally binding obligations on either government. It does not remove public access to parks or green spaces, and it does not affect private land or residential property.
The MOU does not change how development is approved or create new legal barriers, according to the District. The District says it remains committed to transparency and fairness in permitting. All projects, including those from Squamish Nation, follow the same due process as other community projects, the district added.
Making public land less public. This is horrible
Were hereditary rights holders consulted in compliance with Section 25 and Section 35 Aboriginal and constitutional rights, and is that consultation documented?
why do anything – if anything, use the land to sell and make money to pay back the towns debt we took on for fire halls and works yard! This council is lunatic and this is just another example. Try fixing some roads or building some roundabouts, which would negate the need for traffic lights….. something that the future residents of Squamish will thank you for!!!!!