Between June and November 2022, MakeWay and the Firelight Group (Firelight) conducted research on
five different Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs). Through nine interviews and a two-day
workshop, we learned about challenges, successes, and the realities of implementation, including what
roles are needed, the time and financial costs, barriers encountered, and foundations for success.
An initial draft report was developed based on the interviews. MakeWay and Firelight hosted a two-day
workshop where findings from the interviews were discussed, verified, and updated. The workshop
included one day where public government representatives were not present and Indigenous representatives could discuss their perspective freely. The report was updated to incorporate what was shared during the workshop.
Important findings include the following:
- Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas need dedicated specialized staff in both Indigenous Governments and Organizations (IGOs) and in public governments to carry out administrative tasks, complete on-the-land work, write management plans, develop policies, and communicate successes to the community. Parties need to work together to create positions that complement, not duplicate each other.
- While IGOs may not trust public government institutions, they build positive and effective relationships with individuals within public government institutions that are essential for achieving co-management goals.
- Average annual funding for IPCAs included in this report range from $200,000 to $7.1 million. Long-term, consistent, and flexible funding arrangements are a considerable factor for successful implementation of IPCA agreements. The standard federal Contribution Agreement format is burdensome for all parties.
- Communities gain economic opportunities related to IPCAs, including jobs, businesses, and indirect benefits. Tourism has not been fully maximized in many of the IPCAs, though many communities are focusing on preservation of cultural and ecological values before turning their attention to building tourism opportunities.
Foundations for success include:
- Focus on Indigenous connection;
- A common understanding of the IPCA agreement;
- Communication;
- Patience and flexibility;
- Pre-planning and phased approach;
- Building up community members; and
- Learning from others.