When Indigenous rights and leadership are prioritized, Natural Climate Solutions (NCS) like forest carbon management present an opportunity to advance reconciliation while combatting climate change and biodiversity loss. Wahkohtowin Development GP Inc. is taking steps to drive NCS in the Missinaibi Forest toward Indigenous-led climate action and social-ecological benefits for its owner First Nations (the Chapleau Cree FN, Missinabie Cree FN and Brunswick House FN).

The goal of this research project is to identify where Indigenous Knowledge differs from how the province of Ontario understands and manages winter moose habitat, in order to better protect moose populations in the Northeast Superior region. Additionally, new and improved forest inventory data in the region will be investigated as a potential tool to help close the gaps identified through interviews and community engagement.

The “Assessing forest harvesting impacts on furbearer habitat at the scale of Indigenous traplines - A case study in Indigenous consultation and forest conservation” project is planned to enhance the understanding of Indigenous rights holders concerning forest management activities that impact the distribution of forest types and ages upon which the forest dwelling wildlife that sustain traditional trapping and harvesting depend.

Indigenous participation is integral to the advancement of community-led governance over natural resources development projects. Stemming from such undertakings is the need for effective and continuous environmental monitoring for mitigating impacts to traditional lands and waters. The research proposal is aimed at articulating community-identified values and objectives for the development of an effective and culturally appropriate Environmental Monitoring (EM) training program.