British Columbia’s coastal waters have been the scene of tremendous social conflict between user groups over the years. First Nations, commercial fishermen, sports fishermen, salmon farmers, shellfish growers, and environmentalists often have conflicting interests. Integrated marine-use planning can be an effective means to resolve conflict and implement ecosystem-based management in the marine environment.

In 1996, Canada enacted its Ocean Act that mandates integrated marine-use planning. Despite the government’s inactivity, First Nations, communities and environmental groups have taken the lead at promoting marine planning processes on the B.C. coast.

Ecotrust Canada has worked with the Heiltsuk Nation to develop a marine-use plan for the heart of the Central Coast, helped to fund a Tsleil-Waututh marine stewardship plan in the Burrard Inlet and are working with the Namgis to develop a comprehensive community fisheries strategic plan for the First Nation in Alert Bay. We are also active members of the West Coast of Vancouver Island Aquatic Management Board, which is a new approach to managing aquatic resources based on transparency, coordination, accountability and a broader ecosystem perspective.

Ecotrust Canada is currently looking at ways it can help communities and First Nations be actively involved in the Department of Fisheries and Oceans integrated planning process on the North Coast. Known as PNCIMA or the Pacific North Coast Integrated Management Area, the planning process is just beginning and will involve interests including First Nations, aquaculture, oil and gas, exploration, shipping, tourism, and commercial and recreational fishing.