The provincial government is working together with First Nation communities and agencies, as well as northern communities and towns, to review Areas of Special Interest (ASI) that help fulfill the commitment to establish a network of protected areas.

Cultural, spiritual, and ecological values are important to First Nations and Aboriginal people, and will be considered when identifying and designating protected areas.  As part of the Protected Areas Initiative’s land evaluation process we routinely interact and engage in discussions with First Nations and Northern Affairs communities who may be affected by the establishment of a protected area.  We recognize that community input and awareness assists in reaching higher quality decisions and ones that are more likely to be supported by the community.

The Government of Manitoba is working with First Nations and Aboriginal people to ensure that areas designated as protected areas will not infringe upon any existing Aboriginal or treaty rights of First Nations and Aboriginal people, rights under the Manitoba Natural Resources Transfer Agreement, or rights yet to be confirmed.  The right of First Nations and Aboriginal people to access protected areas for hunting, trapping, fishing, and other traditional pursuits will be respected.

The Ecological Reserves Act prohibits hunting and the removal of plants or other materials from ecological reserves.  However, traditional land use by First Nations is generally permitted.  Where the feature being protected could be placed at risk by traditional use, the government will consult meaningfully with First Nations wishing to exercise treaty rights to ensure conservation of the feature, while accommodating traditional use to the greatest extent possible.  By working together we can ensure that Manitoba’s outstanding landscapes and ecosystems maintain their natural and cultural value for future generations.