1.2.10

Description: 
We will build partnerships to expand resources available for community-based traditional economy programs, which could be used to support, amongst other things, local operators, culturally-based tourism, and the conservation economy.
Lead Dept: 
ENR
Priority: 
1.2
Status: 
Fulfilled
Restructured COC: 
Economy and Environment
Number: 
10
Deputy Minister Committee: 
Economy and Environment
Background Information: 

ECONOMY, ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE

Commitment 1.2.10 – We will build partnerships to expand resources available for community-based traditional economy programs, which could be used to support, amongst other things, local operators, culturally-based tourism, and the conservation economy.

Northern ecosystems are diverse and especially sensitive. The land, rich in biodiversity, contributes to the high quality of life enjoyed in the Northwest Territories (NWT). Food security and traditional economy rely on continued biodiversity in the north.

The GNWT recognizes the intersection of cultural landscapes, biodiversity protection and sustainable livelihoods. Communities and Indigenous governments want to see the creation of a diversified economy as well as the stewardship of natural, ecological and cultural values.

The term conservation economy refers to the attainment of social and economic benefits through the conservation of ecosystems within an area. It complements and secures the traditional economy, which is grounded in cultural practices and the abundance of natural resources. Together, these assets contribute to sustaining a local economy that ultimately supports the development of a strong and sustainable regional economy.

In partnership with Indigenous governments, the GNWT’s establishment of protected areas and conservation areas will protect ecologically and culturally significant parts of the NWT. It will also provide economic opportunities for local residents and certainty regarding land use consistent with the GNWT’s balanced approach to resource management.

New NWT legislation for protected areas is being created in partnership with Indigenous governments and will include provisions for shared management and monitoring of protected areas, such as guardian stewardship programs, and the creation of a diversified economy.

Related Mandate Commitments:

  • Commitment 1.1.13 - We will support small communities by enhancing job-creation programs, building community capacity and supporting new economic opportunities, by: Implementing the Economic Opportunities Strategy.

  • Commitment 1.2.5 - Through agreements with communities, we will help to establish and/or expand self-sufficient businesses that sell products from renewable resource harvesting.

  • Commitment 1.2.7 - We will expand tourism options and provide high quality public facilities by:

    • Expanding and modernizing our parks infrastructure and signage.

    • Improving road side facilities along remote highways.

    • Building new parks such as Doi T'oh Territorial Park in the Sahtú Region.

  • Commitment 4.3.10 - We will finalize a strategic plan to enhance existing programming and build new partnership initiatives to support healthy and sustainable traditional lifestyles.