Indigenous control and benefits through small-scale forestry: a multi-case analysis of outcomes

Growing international awareness of the need to recognize Indigenous rights and interests is reflected in Canada's changing forestry culture. Across Canada, government and industry historically dominated the forest sector, resulting in the exclusion of Indigenous peoples from decision-making and benefits. Today, public forest licensing agreements can be a strategic tool for increasing Indigenous access to decision-making control and forest-based economic benefits. In Manitoba, Community Timber Allocations (CTAs) are granted to First Nation, Metis, and northern communities. This research examines the implementation and outcomes of the CTA and its possible significance in elevating Indigenous involvement in forestry from 2005 to 2015. Perspectives from Indigenous communities, industry, and the provincial government are explored through semi-structured interviews and site visits. While this allocation offers flexible access to timber and benefits through local training and business opportunities, its design structure offers little decision-making control for communities to implement traditional values or objectives on the landscape.