A key purpose of an Integrated Forest Land Use Plan is to merge use of the land with environmental, economic, social and cultural values of society into a specific plan. It means balancing use with these values to ensure a healthy environment and the sustainability of the natural resources.

How we all see forest lands varies considerably. We see it: as a place to hunt, hike and fish; as an essential ecosystem for our healthy environment; as a precious habitat requiring protection; or as timber resources, mineral resources, fuel, manufacturing, and exports. All of these are important visions of the forest that can be part of a land use plan. Many groups and individuals are careful to ensure their interests in the forests are being considered. Land use planning can help identify interests and mitigate conflicts.

The following have an interest in forest management:

Aboriginal people have a unique relationship with the land. In many cases, the land is a basis for much of their history, tradition and culture. First Nations want resource use balanced with the land base capacity.

Saskatchewan residents, both rural and urban, increasingly feel that land must be wisely used and kept healthy and productive for future generations.

The forest industry, one of Saskatchewan's important resource industries, wants to see a continued supply of high quality wood from Saskatchewan's forests.

Environmental and conservation groups strive to ensure the protection of natural ecosystems and all plant and animal species. They have a great interest in ensuring that forest use leads to a balance between protection and conservation of the forest, and its use as a resource.

Community groups and rural residents can be a powerful force in developing a land use plan that is sound and practical.

Labor organizations want to see continued opportunity for safe, meaningful employment from resources from forest lands.

Hunters, anglers and trappers continue to use forests that support wildlife that can be harvested as food and fur.

Natural areas, wildlife, and areas having unique or scenic geographical features present opportunities for the development of Saskatchewan's tourism or ecotourism industry.

The mining industry requires surface access to lands for the purpose of mineral exploration, development and mining, but recognizes the need to undertake these activities in an environmentally responsible way. Mineral resource assessment and compensation issues need to be addressed.

Researchers in universities, government and industry are continually searching for ways to better manage land and its resources for current and future generations.

Government agencies of all levels, particularly the provincial government, are working together to integrate decisions concerning wise use and management of the forests.

The forest is more than just a collection of trees to residents of Saskatchewan. Increasing demands on the forest call for improved ways of managing and protecting it. The northeastern provincial forest has been selected as the area, in which to introduce a more integrated approach to the planning and management of forest lands.

Integrated Forest Land Use Plans have been initiated for the following planning areas: Amisk Atik, La Ronge, and Dore/Smoothstone. The Pasquia Porcupine Integrated Forest Land Use Plan was released for implementation in January 1999.

Each of these planning initiatives has a comprehensive public involvement process. They include advisory boards, community meetings and information circulation.

For further information on these initiatives please contact: