ABORIGINAL CONSULTATION

The CAN/CSA-Z809 standard recognizes that Canadian forests have special significance to Aboriginal peoples, that the legal status of Aboriginal peoples is unique and that they possess special knowledge and insights concerning SFM derived from their traditional practices and experience. The standard concludes that Aboriginal forest users and communities require unique consideration in the public participation process and should be given an opportunity to contribute their special knowledge to the process of setting values, objectives, indicators, and targets. Aboriginal consultation during the Forest Management Planning process will continue to be an important component for communicating this knowledge.

AFA will endeavour to obtain information and advice from the Aboriginal communities and to consult with them in the development of a SFM plan.  First Nations representatives have been invited to participate as members of the Advisory Group and Aboriginal communities will be provided with periodic updates on the development of the SFM plan.

Negotiations are ongoing with respect to an Aboriginal land claim that affects a portion of the DFA. AFA is committed to monitoring the progress of the land claim and recognizing the associated treaty rights once finalized. It is understood by AFA and Aboriginal community members that participation in the CSA consultation process will not prejudice those rights.