Lyell Island, also known as Athlii Gwaii, is in a remote area of the archipelago, only accessible by boat but has ancient growth of monumental cedars, hemlocks and Sitkas.

 

In 1985, after ten years of building tensions over logging rights on Moresby Island (the largest island in the archipelago) and surrounding areas, a logging company owned by Frank Beban was allowed to renew its licenses and begin work again. The permits were issued by the Minister of Forests. This act stirred frustration and further tension between the Haidas and the government.

 

As Haidas have always been inextricably connected to nature, 72 Haidas converged on the area and formed a blockade along the logging road to protect it.