3.3 Values
Values are at the core of the cumulative effects framework. The Plan organizes management around 12 values that identify what is important to the people of the Region. Cumulative effects management further centres decisions on these values. This becomes more achievable over time as the Parties define indicators with thresholds for Plan values. They must also decide how best to monitor, assess, and respond to changes in value health. In the meantime, decision-makers must use the best available information on value health in the context of value goals.
Values are the most established element of the Plan’s cumulative effects framework. They are the least likely to change over time, having been identified through extensive consultation with the Parties, community, and Plan Partners. They represent what is most important to residents and to others with a connection to the Region. Most other framework elements are built around values – for example, indicators and monitoring programs.
LMU priority values are an important tool in guiding which values are considered in cumulative effects assessment. Prioritizing is not intended to diminish any value; all appear in the Plan due to their importance. Rather, prioritizing is useful because cumulative effects management becomes increasingly complex and difficult as more values are considered, due to the sheer volume of factors involved and the interconnectedness of values. Priority values also provide certainty to proponents by constraining how many values must be considered in any individual project proposal.
Management Directions by Value
The Plan’s management directions (Section 5) are oriented around values so management focuses on what people want in the Region, rather than on the stressors acting on those values. This provides resilience under changing conditions. Stressors are more likely to change over time than values (65).
For example, a direction to protect and restore salmon spawning habitat will remain useful regardless of what activities or natural events are putting pressure on that habitat. Conversely, a direction that responds to a particular threat (for example, high boat traffic) is limited. New directions would need to be created if activities or threats change.
Orienting the directions around values sets the stage for applying and improving cumulative effects management, which is also value-based. It also aligns with the precautionary principle. Waiting for a comprehensive set of indicators, thresholds, and responses is not an excuse for inaction if a value is at risk.
Management directions aim to keep values healthy, as defined by one or more goals – for example, Table 3. These goals are useful for cumulative effects assessment in the early phases of Plan implementation.
| VALUE | GOAL |
|---|---|
| Caribou | Healthy and resilient caribou herd populations that grow toward historic levels. |
| Land–People Relationship | Healthy land and harvestable species are abundant and used responsibly by community members from many different backgrounds. |
| Community Resilience | A resilient community with strong relationships with one another and with the land. |
| Sustainable Local Economy | Many locally owned and operated businesses are successful and provide local employment. |
Implementation Actions
- Consider Plan values and their health in planning and strategic work.
- Use knowledge gained from ongoing monitoring of value health to inform Plan Review.