Canada's national forest strategies: A comparative analysis

Abstract

Canada's national forest strategies (NFS) advance a commitment to maintain the diversity of social, economic, and ecological values throughout the nation's forests. This paper tracks and compares four major events in the progression of Canada's national forest policy: (i) the 1981–1987 forest sector discussion paper; (ii) the 1987–1992 forest sector strategy; (iii) the 1992–1997 NFS; and (iv) the 1998–2003 NFS.The 1987 NFS consisted of recommendations, whereas the 1992 NFS presented commitment statements. Unfortunately, the 1992 strategy did not reference the Canada Forest Accord nor vise-versa. Further, the Accord signatories simply endorsed a set of national commitments - these were not binding on the provinces. The 1998 NFS strengthened the connection to the second Canada Forest Accord, but connection is still not complete, as the second Canada Forest Accord does not reference the 1998 NFS. Nonetheless, both 1998 documents direct signatories to produce measurable action plans by 1999, thereby determining their specific responsibilities and deadlines. Together, the 1998 Canada Forest Accord and NFS accommodate regional differences while instilling a level of responsibility to achieve sustainable forests nationwide.The process to develop the NFS has improved through each iteration due to the greater range of discussion topics and wider spectrum of participants, especially Aboriginal people. The flexibility in allowing additional time to consult stakeholders and draft better strategies has also strengthened the 1998 NFS, as the 1998 National Forest Congress was delayed.Maintaining wide consultation to address key stakeholder values, retaining flexibility while encouraging a significant level of commitment, and keeping strong connectivity between the Canada Forest Accord and the strategy are components for developing successful national forest policy in the future. Key words: Canada Forest Accord, Canadian forest policy, forest values, national forest strategy, policy development, public consultation, sustainable forests