"It's time for some respect for our lands and waters from the company and the government," Mike Sutherland, Councillor for Peguis First Nation, said. Berger Peat Moss Ltd. is clearing forest and building roads prior to required plant study and inventory. Mike Sutherland said the mine was initially licensed in the summer of 2011 despite a moratorium on new peat mines, and a new license was issued in February despite months of formal appeals and community consultations.

The Washow Peninsula is situated within the Treaty Land Entitlement notice area for Peguis First Nation, and is a shared traditional use area for Peguis and Fisher River First Nations.

"We have taken every step with the Manitoba government in good faith. This peat mine, and the others intended for the Peninsula, are not right. Our First Nations, and our supporters know we need a real peat mine moratorium in Manitoba. Berger talks one way and acts another way. It is time for some respect for our lands and waters from the company and the government."