Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd. – 2026 ISBY Award

Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation - CCIB ISBY Award Logo

2026

Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd.

Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd. (CCR) is an Indigenous-owned forestry organization representing the communities of Tŝideldel, Tl’etinqox and Yunesit’in in the Chilcotin region of British Columbia. Established to create long-term economic opportunities while restoring and protecting traditional territories, CCR has become a recognized example of Indigenous-led forestry and environmental stewardship in Canada.

CCR is guided by a simple but powerful principle: First Nations should play a leading role in managing and caring for the lands that have sustained their communities for generations. Through this approach, CCR is helping reshape how forestry is conducted by balancing economic development, environmental responsibility, cultural values and community well-being.

Today, CCR oversees and delivers large-scale forestry, wildfire risk reduction, forest rehabilitation, fibre recovery and reforestation projects across the Chilcotin region. The organization works closely with industry partners, governments and local communities to develop solutions that address challenges related to wildfire resilience, forest health, climate adaptation and fibre utilization.

CCR has earned provincial and national recognition for its work in wildfire rehabilitation and fibre recovery. Through initiatives such as the Pressy Lake Pilot Project and the Palmer Lake Project, the organization has demonstrated that fire-killed fibre can be recovered and utilized productively rather than burned, creating economic opportunities while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and wildfire risks. These projects have challenged long-held assumptions within the forestry sector and have positioned CCR as an innovator in sustainable forest management.

The impact of CCR extends well beyond the forest. By prioritizing Indigenous employment, local contractors and community-owned businesses, CCR helps keep economic benefits within the region while building long-term skills, experience and capacity for future generations.

CCR’s work is deeply rooted in Indigenous values and traditional ecological knowledge. The organization recognizes that healthy forests contribute to healthy communities and that stewardship is an intergenerational responsibility. This philosophy guides every project, from wildfire mitigation and habitat restoration to cultural plant programs and initiatives that reconnect youth and Elders with the land.

Under the leadership of CEO Percy Guichon and its board of directors, CCR has become a respected voice in forestry and land stewardship across British Columbia and Canada. The organization regularly shares its experiences and lessons learned with governments, industry leaders, researchers and Indigenous communities, helping advance collaborative approaches to resource management and reconciliation.

As climate change continues to transform forest landscapes across Canada, CCR remains focused on creating practical solutions that support communities, strengthen economies and protect the environment. Through Indigenous leadership, innovation and collaboration, CCR is helping build healthier forests, more resilient communities and a stronger future for generations to come.

Have questions about CCIB Awards?

Sign up for the newsletter

Find out about upcoming gatherings, latest news and CCIB resources by subscribing to our bi-weekly newsletter.

Follow Us on Social Media