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FAQ

What is the Canadian Model Forest Network?
What is Sustainable Forest Management?
What is a “Model Forest”?
Why call it a “Model” Forest?
Where are the current Model Forests located?
How are Model Forests structured and governed?
Why are partnerships so important in the Model Forests?
Can I visit a Model Forest?
Why are Model Forests important?
Does a Model Forest restrict the activities of private landowners?

What is the Canadian Model Forest Network?
The Canadian Model Forest Network (CMFN) is a network of 14 model forests across Canada. Each local site involves numerous partners who all work towards sustainable landscape management. Partners include, forest companies, Aboriginal communities, private citizens, parks, environmental groups, governments and universities. As a network the CMFN collectively works to raise the profile of model forests in Canada and around the world and coordinates relevant national initiatives.

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What is Sustainable Forest Management?
Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) is management that maintains and enhances the long-term health of forest ecosystems while providing ecological, economic, social and cultural opportunities for the benefit of present and future generations.

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What is a “Model Forest”?
A Model Forest is a partnership of public and private landowners, government, industry, universities, Aboriginal communities and other organizations that have a common interest in achieving SFM within a local, defined forest area. Each Model Forest is run by a not-for-profit organization and, except for a small administrative staff, all those involved in the Model Forest not only donate their time and expertise, but also often bring additional financial support. At the heart of each Model Forest are the partners who work together to promote forest management that takes into account ecosystem health, cultural values and economics. Model Forests range in size from 113,000 hectares to 7.7 million hectares, covering typical scales at which district-level forest management decisions are made.

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Why call it a “Model” Forest?
A Model Forest is a “model” or example of sustainable forest management. It acts as a giant laboratory where leading edge techniques are researched, developed, applied and monitored to work towards achieving SFM. The Model Forests serve as examples of how other forest areas within Canada can achieve SFM.

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Where are the current Model Forests located? (See Canadian Model Forests)

  • Clayoquot Forest Community
  • Cree Research and Development Insitute
  • Eastern Ontario Model Forest
  • Foothills Research Institute
  • Fundy Model Forest
  • Lac-Saint-Jean Model Forest
  • Lake Abitibi Model Forest
  • Le Bourdon Project
  • Manitoba Model Forest
  • Model Forest of Newfoundland & Labrador
  • Northeast Superior Forest Community
  • Nova Forest Alliance
  • Prince Albert Model Forest
  • Resources North Association

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How are Model Forests structured and governed?
The Model Forests are not-for-profit organizations. A management body, such as a Board of Directors, is responsible for managing funds. The internal structure of each Model Forest differs, but most use committees to oversee project initiatives and these committees advise the main management body. All Model Forests have a small administrative staff, headed by a General Manager, which is comprised of forest, geomatics and communications specialists.

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How are projects chosen in Model Forests?
Various committees and Model Forest staff advise the management body on particular projects. The management body makes the final decisions, dependent on available funding.

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Why are partnerships so important in the Model Forests?
Many Canadians live in forested areas and are directly affected by forestry practices. As such, it is important to form partnerships that bring various environmental, cultural and economic organizations and values together. Partnerships are necessary to address and satisfy the diverse needs of the people who live in the Model Forest. Partnerships bring people together to sort out conflicting ideas and, in many cases, also bring most of the funding to the Model Forests, which supports project work.

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Can I visit a Model Forest?
Yes. It is recommended that you contact the individual Model Forest for site visitation details.

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Why are Model Forests important?
Model Forests are important because they bring divergent views together. They create communities. Each partner in a Model Forest contributes and shares their values, expertise and experience with others. In doing so, s/he creates a shared environment where views on how to better achieve SFM are refined and put into practice. For example, Model Forests put landowners in closer contact with researchers and policy makers, allowing everyone to learn about better SFM practices from differing points of view.

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Does a Model Forest restrict the activities of private landowners?
No. Model Forests have no jurisdiction over the management of the land used as a testing ground. Rather, Model Forests encourage landowners within their boundaries to work with other stakeholders to make a difference towards improved forest management.

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