Aboriginal Forestry: Community Management as Opportunity and Imperative

• Main Authors: Curran, Deborah, M'Gonigle, Michael
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Osgoode Hall Law Journal 1999
• Subjects: Canada; First Nations
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/1828/7859; http://digitalcommons.osgoode.yorku.ca/ohlj/vol37/iss4/1/

In recognition that forests are one of their greatest resources, Aboriginal peoples are considering how altered tenure arrangements might uphold traditional values, including ecological integrity, while providing economic and employment opportunities. However, the federal and provincial forest management structures have historically precluded First Nations from helping to define, and participate in, the forest industry. The authors explore the legal and regulatory basis of forest management in Canada, and assess how it facilitates or impedes Aboriginal management of traditional areas. This is done through a legislative and policy analysis, and through the use of case studies from across Canada. The authors propose an approach to tenure reform that will allow First Nations to achieve ecosystem-based community forestry through the use of traditional governance structures. Tri-Council Secretariat Faculty Reviewed