Energy, Mines, and Resources

Planning Partners and Areas

Strategic Forest Management Plans have been initiated in the regions of the territory which have industry potential. The Yukon Government is responsible for management of forest resources on public lands. However, often seek input and cooperation in building strategic plans from First Nation Governments.  The majority of First Nations have settled their land claim. Within these claims responsibilities for forest management have been given to YG, FN and Renewable Resource Councils.  Renewable Resource Councils (RRCs) are six person councils formed out of Final Agreements to provide community input into resource management and wildlife issues within the respective First Nation traditional territory.  Although RRCs are not given explicit roles in Forest Management Planning it has been very productive when RRCs are partnered with and assume the role of coordinating public input and facilitating public consultation.

In forest regions where the First Nation has not settled their Land Claim, the Yukon Government has developed joint planning tables with FN representatives and community members. The YG has two options for planning areas. 
1. Where the First Nation has settled their Land Claim they have been given resource rights and ownership to large sections of land. The Governments can complete a joint plan for both settlement and public lands.  Often this planning boundary would then be the traditional territory.
2. The Government could also choose to plan the public land portion; the planning area could then be the traditional territory, community boundary or forest management unit.