Great News for the Boreal Forest

The next step is to start developing a regional land use framework (to be completed by spring 2009), and work with First Nations as they lead development of local land use plans. First Nations’ consent will be required before development proceeds, and revenue from resource development will be shared with them. To help address some of the current conflicts, reform of Mining Act is expected quickly (by December), so that “exploration and development only take place following early consultation and accommodation of Aboriginal communities”.

We’re delighted, as we think it vital that First Nations have a central role in decision-making about northern lands and waters, and the approach is in line with WWF’s “Conservation First” position, where the conservation of lands, waters and wildlife is best addressed before industrial permitting, so that the most important natural areas are protected first.

The vast northern boreal forest also locks up a lot of carbon that would otherwise be in the atmosphere, warming the planet, so it’s good news on the climate change front.

While there’s lots of work yet to do, WWF’s own president emeritus, Monte Hummel said that the Premier “is providing some direction and some objectives to the process. It’s an invitation for everybody to come to the table, and in my view that’s how things should be solved.”

by Keith Stewart