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First Nations

Land Stewardship Toolkit for First Nations

This Toolkit provides descriptions of policies and strategies currently in use by First Nations in BC for land and water management, both on reserve and on traditional territories. It refers to online resources along with case studies of creative solutions. 

A common thread of the case studies is the fundamental importance of building relationships. Parties might come to the table in disagreement, but by focusing on common ground, collaboration, commitment, and dispute resolution, relationships can be built and agreements can follow. The integration of Indigenous law and shared decision-making substantially reduces conflicts, and fosters relationships that advance Indigenous stewardship, learning, and more effective decision-making in the face of present and future climate challenges.

Land Code

Land Code offers autonomy to First Nations under the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management Act (FNLMA). The federal government transfers to First Nations the right to enact a Land Code and manage and pass laws related to reserve lands.
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Tribal Parks

Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCA) or Tribal Parks* are conservation areas that are owned and governed or co-governed by Indigenous communities, often reflecting Indigenous laws and legal orders.
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Land Use Plans

Land-use planning is a process by which communities or governments develop a framework to guide decision-making about lands, waters, resources, wildlife and people in an area.
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Collaborative Tables

Collaborative tables bring First Nations together with other governments, organizations, and businesses with the goal of solving problems.
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Carbon Offsetting

High-quality forest carbon projects that are led by First Nations can be a path towards community land management and sustainable revenue.
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Biodiversity Credits

Biodiversity credits are an economic instrument that allow groups to finance activities, such as forest conservation or restoration that deliver net positive biodiversity gains.
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Key Biodiversity Areas

Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) are areas that support rare and threatened species and ecosystems. Establishing a KBA on a traditional territory may bring heightened awareness of the ecological values of the area.
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Biosphere Reserves

Biosphere Reserves (or “regions” in Canada) are areas recognized by the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme for their unique biodiversity, iconic landscapes, and engaged communities.
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