A comparative analysis of forest management plans and their ability to meet tribal needs and priorities
TASK F
Introduction Forest management plans (FMP) are the guiding documents for all forest management activities that occur on tribal forest lands (NIFRMA 1990, P.L. 101-630). These documents provide the intent, direction, and operational information necessary to implement goals and objectives toward achieving tribal visions for their forests. Without this guidance there cannot be successful management of the forest resources. In the absence of an approved FMP, only limited management activities can occur on trust forest lands and commercial harvest is not allowed (BIA Manual 53 IAM 2.4). To support these forest
plans, there needs to be current and appropriate forest inventories that reflect the condition of the forest and the monitoring of past management activities. This is the fourth assessment of the Forest Management and Inventory Planning (FMIP) program within the BIA and across all 345 forested tribal reservations (trust and non- trust combined). It is important
to not only assess the current condition of the forest plan, but to review the past IFMAT recommendations to see if they have been implemented and their success in sustaining the forest resources. Building on the past recommendations is the goal, to keep the focus on successful forest management planning across tribal lands, and to see the FMIP program grow as more is known.
“Our forest is a working forest even with obstacles in the way it’s still working.
It provides the community with traditional and cultural benefits.” —IFMAT IV focus group participant
Blueberry management discussion during the IFMAT IV site visit to Grand Portage, Minnesota. PHOTO CREDIT: VINCENT CORRAO
Task Findings and Recommendations 123
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