This session will examine how the Metlakatla First Nation in northwestern British Columbia developed an innovative planning system to manage the impacts of development and achieve their community goals. In the seven years since initiation of the Metlakatla Cumulative Effects Management (CEM) Program, the Metlakatla has been recognized as a leader in community-based cumulative effects planning, acclaimed as a first-of-its-kind Indigenous-led planning initiative. The presenters worked with the Metlakatla to develop this program. They will describe the planning system and share stories and lessons from the Metlakatla experience with a series of case studies covering off-reserve housing strategies, health values and indicators, and energy management. Three keys to success will be highlighted: (1) moving from reactive to proactive planning by establishing community goals and targets; (2) developing strategies to achieve goals with tiered management triggers and action plans; and (3) continuous learning and monitoring. The presentation will illustrate how Indigenous values and practices formed the basis of the planning system and the role of strategies in achieving objectives.
