Developing community-based criteria for sustaining non-timber forest products: A case study with the Missanabie Cree First Nation

Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) are crucial to the spiritual and cultural identity of Indigenous communities, while playing a significant role in traditional economies. In Canada, current forest policies and commercial management systems do not adequately protect and conserve these natural resources. Decisions makers have yet to fully and effectively use local and traditional knowledge in forest policy and planning. This research used a participatory approach and 26 community interviews to document local criteria, elements and critical local values surrounding NTFP development and conservation within the traditional territory of the Missanabie Cree First Nation. Applied ethnobotany and policy analysis were used to develop a locally specified framework and case study to guide decision making. The analysis establishes key community-based objectives to promote diverse socio-economic benefits, while advancing local forest management systems. In particular, the co-research process identified six criteria (1. productive capacity; 2. health; 3. conservation and protection; 4. long-term management benefits; 5. community participation; 6. capacity of institutions) and associated 18 elements and 239 critical local values, which span the maintenance and enhancement of NTFPs. The resulting framework represents one possible re-entry point into the forest planning process for Missanabie Cree who are working to reconnect with their land following a long period of forced exclusion. Moving forward, leadership can continue to revise this framework to accommodate changing needs, further engage their membership, and in doing so refine their roles in forest governance. The research process and framework documented here can inform other forest land managers looking to create more inclusive decision making processes and document local values.