Yukon Land Claims and Self-Government Agreements - Annual Report 2011-2012

Activities in 2011-12

Carcross/Tagish First Nation established a priority and planning process with the community, staff and leadership in order to identify priorities and manage outcomes.

Following a special community assembly and work by a Constitutional Review Committee, the constitution was amended to prepare for the election of a Khà' Shade Héni (Chief) and Council in early 2012/2013.

Carcross/Tagish First Nation has passed and begun to implement a Family Act. The Act supports community responsibility through the establishment of a Family Council. At this time, Carcross/Tagish First Nation is currently in dispute resolution with Canada and Yukon over implementation of this file.

Carcross/Tagish First Nation's Health and Wellness Department successfully completed phase one of a Transitional Employment Program that targets low-income individuals and is in the process of implementing phase two which teaches job readiness skills.

Carcross/Tagish First Nation did not agree to a new Self-Government Financial Transfer Agreement as presented by Canada. Carcross/Tagish First Nation continued to advocate politically and administratively to get a more equitable agreement for the First Nation. Discussions continued between Carcross/Tagish First Nation and Canada to try and come to an agreement acceptable to both Parties.

Although work continued on Program and Services Transfer Agreement files with respect to Alcohol and Drug Services and Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, there was reduced activity in negotiations due to the shift in focus to the Self-Government Financial Transfer Agreement negotiations.

The primary challenge faced by Carcross/Tagish First Nation is implementing its agreements without adequate resources.

Activities in 2011-12

Governance
Champagne and Aishihik First Nations' Executive Council Office worked on developing new processes for administrative reviews, including either a Tribunal or an Ombudsman process.

Champagne and Aishihik First Nations hosted the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada, at the Da Kų Cultural Centre in August, 2011. The Prime Minister was joined by the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health and Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, and the Honourable Darrell Pasloski, Premier of Yukon, as well as the Honourable Ryan Leaf, Member of Parliament for the Yukon. The Government of Canada supported the new visitor centre through the Economic Action Plan - Improving Parks Canada's National Historic Sites and Visitor Facilities program.

CAFN Constitution
Following a two-year review, a new Constitution was approved at a Special General Assembly in February, 2012.

Economic Development
Community meetings were held to develop Champagne and Aishihik First Nations' economic development plan. The plan was created with input from Champagne and Aishihik First Nations' citizens and corporations (Dakwakada Development Corporation and the Champagne Aishihik Community Corporation).

Champagne and Aishihik First Nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Village of Haines Junction and Dakwakada Development Corporation to:

• work together to develop a renewable energy development strategy for Champagne and Aishihik First Nations' Traditional Territory that respects and reflects economic, environmental and community interests;
• promote an equal relationship that fosters dialogue to assess energy project potential and identify priorities; and
• enhance economic opportunities for Champagne and Aishihik First Nations within the Traditional Territory.

Registry and Citizen Support
Legal work continued on a draft Citizenship Act to resolve outstanding enrolment issues and to provide clear guidelines on Citizenship. There was an increase to Champagne and Aishihik First Nations' status membership as a result of Canada's Gender Equity in Indian Registration Act.

Regional and Settlement Land Use Planning
Champagne and Aishihik First Nations worked with the Yukon Land Use Planning Council, the Government of Yukon, and neighbouring First Nations to start the Kluane Regional Land Use Plan. Work began on Settlement Land use planning after the identification of six regions within the Traditional Territory. These regions were prioritized and work started on the Aishihik region. This planning will assist in resource development decisions as well as the Regional Land Use Planning process.

Environmental Assessment
There were 41 environmental assessment projects reviewed under the Yukon Environmental Socio-economic Assessment Act within the Traditional Territory, bringing the total number of assessments up to 262.

Kusawa Park
Champagne and Aishihik First Nations rejoined talks with Kwanlin Dün First Nation, the Carcross/Tagish First Nation and the Government of Yukon to work on development and implementation of a park management plan for Kusawa Park.

Resource Revenue Sharing
The Government of Canada and the Government of Yukon entered into a new Resource Revenue Sharing regime effective in 2011-2012. The Government of Yukon began consultations with Self-Governing Yukon First Nations to meet the obligations in Chapter 23 of the Final Agreement, the Northern Affairs Program Devolution Transfer Agreement and the Yukon Oil and Gas Accord. On March 9, 2012, Self-Governing Yukon First Nations submitted a revenue sharing proposal to the Government of Yukon to negotiate a revenue sharing arrangement for new, increased royalties to Yukon First Nations.

Program and Service Transfer Agreements
Little activity occurred in negotiations of Programs and Services Transfer Agreements due to the shift in focus to the Resource Revenue Sharing. A Programs and Services Transfer Agreement for a specified period was concluded for the Canadian Heritage Aboriginal Language Initiative program. Champagne and Aishihik First Nations further assumed the National Anti-Drug Strategy Program.

Fiscal Harmonization
Champagne and Aishihik First Nations participated in the second round of engagement sessions in March, 2012. Champagne and Aishihik First Nations worked with other Self-Governing Yukon First Nations to respond to the Government of Canada's Issues and Principles Paper.

Implementation Working Group
A heritage sub-group of the Implementation Working Group continued to develop a heritage manual pursuant to Chapter 13 of the Final Agreements.

The Chapter 22 sub-group of the Implementation Working Group continued with the review of the economic development measures by receiving assistance from the First Nations Statistical Agency and the Yukon Bureau of Statistics to define a common set of performance measures to be consistently applied over time.

Champagne and Aishihik First Nations continued to contribute to and support the Government of Yukon Representative Public Service Plan as per Schedule A Chapter 22 of its Final Agreement.

Activities in 2011-12

The First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun and Canada agreed to a new Self-Government Financial Transfer Agreement. The new Self-Government Financial Transfer Agreement provides significant new money for "general governance" responsibilities (the functions of Chief and Council, General Assembly, and Administration and Finance department), but does not provide additional money for Programs and Services or Final Agreement implementation. There is a commitment to enter into exploratory discussions regarding local government services, natural resources, and environmental assessment with the Government of Canada regarding these matters, which are intended to inform any negotiations which the Parties may agree to enter into for purposes of amending the Self-Government Financial Transfer Agreement.

The First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun has contributed to and supported the development of a Representative Public Service Plan with the Government of Yukon. This will enhance opportunities for Nacho Nyak Dun Citizens to obtain employment with the Government of Yukon.

The First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun contributed to the development of a work plan and Terms of Reference which they approved and commenced for the Chapter 22 Economic Development Measures Review mandated by Section 22.9.2 of the First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun Final Agreement.

The First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun has contributed to and supported the development and approval of a Terms of Reference, plus commenced the development of a heritage manual mandated by Chapter 13 of the First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun Final Agreement. Among other things, this manual will define a number of terms in Chapter 13 of the First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun Final Agreement, such as "ethnographic heritage resources," "paleontological heritage resources" and "archaeological heritage resources." These definitions will provide certainty for the ownership of heritage resources in the First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun Traditional Territory.

The Northern Tutchone First Nations, which are comprised of the First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun, Selkirk First Nation and Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation, were in the planning and discussion stages with the Government of Canada and the Government of Yukon on a draft Administration of Justice Agreement Framework. Caucus meetings took place prior to the actual Administration of Justice Agreement meetings, and were focused on subjects including general updates on the negotiations, agreement on a framework, priorities for each Northern Tutchone community, and the Government of Canada or the Government of Yukon's response to matters. Throughout the year, many discussions were held on subjects related to the draft Administration of Justice Agreement Framework, as well as work plans, tentative meeting scheduling and reporting requirements. To date, progress on this file has been very slow. Once an Administration of Justice Agreement Framework has been signed, negotiators will commence drafting the actual Administration of Justice Agreement for the Northern Tutchone First Nation communities.

Activities in 2011-12

The Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation Council set up the Standing Committee on Constitutional Development. The members discuss processes to move forward on problematic issues, resulting in several amendments to the Constitution that were proposed and approved.

Chief and Council held a Governance Strategic Planning session. Capital and Infrastructure and Health & Social Services staff held Strategic Planning Sessions to assess current standings and help guide future planning.

Construction continued on a new Health and Social Services building and day care building.

Negotiations were completed on Self-Government Financial Transfer Agreement amendments on Health Programs and Initiatives:

• National Aboriginal Youth Suicide Prevention Strategy
• Aboriginal Diabetes Initiatives
• Maternal Child Health Programs

Regarding Human Resources and Social Development and the Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy, negotiations took place for a new Intergovernmental Agreement. A working group was formed to advance completion of a draft intergovernmental agreement.

The Northern Tutchone First Nations, which are comprised of the First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun, Selkirk First Nation and Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation, were in the planning and discussion stages with Government of Canada and Government of Yukon on a draft Administration of Justice Framework Agreement. Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation attended meetings with other Northern Tutchone First Nations to establish interim measures, pending the settlement of an Administration of Justice Agreement as per Section 13.6.1 of the Self-Government Agreement.

Activities in 2011-12

Negotiations for Programs and Services Transfer Agreements were held with the Government of Yukon and the Government of Canada for Alcohol and Drug Services. Negotiations did not conclude in 2011-2012. Selkirk First Nation and the other Self-Governing Yukon First Nations continued to negotiate a Yukon First Nation Labour Market Agreement.

Exploratory discussions occurred for Capital and natural resource programs. The exploratory discussions were to determine whether a Self-Government Financial Transfer Agreement amendment was required for funding in these areas. Discussions were not fruitful and the Parties will continue negotiations through the Self-Government Financial Transfer Agreement renewal negotiations.

Selkirk First Nation developed and implemented a Resource Royalty Policy.

The Northern Tutchone First Nations, which are comprised of the First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun, Selkirk First Nation and Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation, are in the planning and discussion stages with Government of Canada and Government of Yukon on a draft Administration of Justice Framework Agreement.

Selkirk First Nation began discussions on the development of a Trust. The discussions did not conclude in 2011-2012 and are ongoing with a target date of summer 2013.

Activities in 2011-12

The Teslin Tlingit Council actively participated and contributed to support the activities of the Implementation Working Group to meet the expected outcomes/results of the Implementation Working Group 2011-2012 work plan. The work plan priorities included: the review of economic development measures provisions in Chapter 22 of the Umbrella Final Agreement and the Teslin Tlingit Council Final Agreement, Schedule A, Part 1 of Final Agreements – Representative Public Service Plan, Implementation Review Group recommendations 3.14 – future reviews; work on the Heritage Resources Manual in Chapter 13 of the Teslin Tlingit Council Final Agreement; the monitoring of the Umbrella Final Agreement Implementation Plan renewal discussions, communications, annual reports, and amendments; and the monitoring of the status of the Implementation Review Group Nine Year Review Recommendations.

Activities in 2011-12

Work on the Champagne and Aishihik Traditional Territory Integrated Wildlife Management Plan continued to be a priority and will require time and funding in the new fiscal year.

Champagne and Aishihik First Nations and Government of Yukon worked on implementing the Strategic Forest Management Plan for the Champagne Aishihik Traditional Territory. The Council members continued to attend working group meetings for fuel abatement, and promoted community consultation through partnerships with Government of Yukon Forest Resources, Parks Canada and the Village of Haines Junction.

The Dezadeash Lake Management Plan remains tabled, though it was expected to be finalized and implemented for the fiscal year 2012. A redrafted version was expected to be presented back to the Alsek Renewable Resource Council from the Yukon Government for review.

Council members continued to take the community's perspectives to the Bison and Elk Technical Team meetings on a biannual basis.

Work on trapping issues was a high priority for the Council in 2011-2012, including the review of expiring concessions, preliminary review of trapline allocation criteria with Champagne and Aishihik First Nations, and the incentive programs for trappers.

The Council distributed meat from outfitters to community groups for community functions.

The Council received, reviewed and provided community comments and concerns to the Yukon Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Board for proposals under review.

Proposed Yukon Wildlife Act Regulation changes for 2011-2012 were put forward and the Council supported the regulation change review process administered by the Yukon Fish and Wildlife Management Board.

The Council reviewed Scientist and Explorer Act permits for research projects.

Members of the Council developed relationships in the community by hosting an open house and meetings, all of which were well attended. The Council listened to and discussed concerns with the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations Chief and Council, and attended Champagne and Aishihik First Nations Elders meetings and the General Assembly.

The Council attended the 2011 Annual General Workshop of Renewable Resources Councils in Carmacks, the Annual Renewable Resources Council Chairs' Meeting in Whitehorse, public forestry meetings, a public meeting of the Yukon Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment Board, and meetings of the Southern Lakes Wildlife Co-ordinating Committee. The Council communicated and worked with other Renewable Resources Councils on common issues.

The Council took part in the Wolf Conservation and Management Plan by hosting public meetings in Haines Junction, E-mailing information to the public and encouraging comments. The Council co-hosted a meeting with Government of Yukon to plan the Marshall Creek and Bear Creek Timber Harvest areas.

Members of the Council attended a "Mining 101" course delivered by the Yukon Mine Training Association and a Species at Risk workshop delivered by Environment Canada. The Council hired a summer student who worked in partnership with Yukon College to help deliver a wilderness and outdoor-based summer camp program for kids 10-15 years of age. The camp created awareness of the work of the Renewable Resources Councils and stewardship of renewable resources.

Activities in 2011-12

The Carcross/Tagish Renewable Resources Council worked closely with Government of Yukon Department of Highways to raise awareness of the Carcross caribou herd crossing the Alaska Highway. Posters were published and flashing signs were placed at strategic points at the north and south ends of the corridor used by the caribou on the Alaska Highway.

The Council facilitated the installation of public information signs at two locations along the Six Mile River to raise awareness about migrating water fowl.

The Council submitted a proposal for a Southern Lakes Chinook Salmon Enhancement project for funding under the Yukon River Panel Restoration and Enhancement Fund.

The Council underwent a financial audit in 2011-2012.

Activities in 2011-12

The Carmacks Renewable Resources Council achieved considerable success this year by raising its profile in the community. Numerous meetings and workshops were coordinated in an effort to bring information to the community and generate discussions on local fish and wildlife issues. The outcome of these engagements allowed the Carmacks Renewable Resources Council to develop meaningful recommendations that accurately reflected the voice of the community.

Thirteen projects under review by the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board were located within, adjacent to, or required access through the habitat range of the Klaza caribou herd. Protecting the herd and its habitat for future generations as a healthy and vibrant caribou population remains the largest challenge for the Council. The Council also provided comments to the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board on numerous mining projects, identifying the key valued wildlife components that may be impacted by project activities.

The 16th Annual General Workshop of Renewable Resources Councils was held in Carmacks from November 4-6, 2011. The agenda included the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board and presentations by Yukon Government on Cumulative Effects Studies that addressed the Council's role in mining activities. The Council developed trapline recommendations intended to engage the Government of Yukon in enhancing the industry. The Council engaged in discussions on how the Renewable Resources Councils work with communities to effectively bring a local voice to management issues.

The Council provided support for a community meeting held by the Yukon Fish & Wildlife Management Board, and for the Yukon Government's Wolf Conservation and Management Plan Workshop. The Council compiled the comments received from the community to be included in a written submission to the Yukon Fish & Wildlife Management Board on the Plan.

The Council supported the community elk information exchange at a public meeting. The Council heard community concerns about the lack of public information about the management of the Braeburn elk herd. Community comments were summarized and provided for the Government of Yukon's elk biologist's report. Key recommendations included allowing a hunt within the core elk range to drive the herd away from the highway as safety was a key issue for the community.

The Moose Management Workshop was identified in the Council's work plan as an opportunity to educate local stakeholders (and invite school students) to explain how moose are managed within the Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation Traditional Territory. It was a challenge for the Council to lead this project, and discussions with the Regional Biologist and Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation Lands Department led to the understanding that this workshop would require significant planning and teamwork to successfully reach its goal of exchanging information with community members. The Council decided to pursue this matter in the coming year.

The Council coordinated a trapline event to coincide with Carmacks Winterlude. To fulfill its mandate of enhancing the trapping industry, the Council financially supported bringing a Fur-Handling Workshop to Carmacks which was hosted by the Yukon Trappers Association. The public and twelve active trappers were invited to learn how to increase their profits in fur harvest sales by handling fur using the current techniques required by the auction houses. This created awareness for young people who participated and showed immense interest in fur-handling techniques.

The Council made a request to the Yukon Fish and Wildlife Management Board that the public review of the Aishihik Wood Bison Herd Management Plan be postponed as the original date in mid-December was considered too busy for meaningful consultation and the Council were aware of community concerns on bison management issues. The Council supported the review by providing a community supper and providing comment cards for attendees to note their bison concerns. The Council compiled the comments in a written summary and provided a letter of recommendation to the Review Team.

Activities in 2011-12

The Dän Keyi Renewable Resources Council underwent a financial audit in 2011-2012.

The Council worked with the Government of Yukon to create a new interpretative sign to educate the public about management and conservation of the local Kluane caribou herd. The sign was installed along the section of the Alaska Highway frequented by the herd.

The Council also worked with Government of Yukon to have signs installed in key locations along the Alaska Highway where the Dall sheep are known to congregate and cross the road at certain times of the year. Simple signs with an illustration of a male Dall sheep were installed to educate the traveling public to use caution as sheep are occasionally on the highway.

The Council initiated work with the Kluane First Nation, Government of Yukon and Parks Canada to develop a Moose Management Strategy for the Kluane First Nation Core Area. This is a joint effort with these governments and is expected to continue into 2013.

The Council continued to monitor the work being done by Yukon Energy Corporation on the proposed Gladstone Lake diversion project.

The Council provided recommendations and worked with the Government of Yukon's Community Services Branch in relation to improvements being made to the Destruction Bay Solid Waste Transfer Station.

The Council rented a new office at lots 50 and 51 in Destruction Bay; the mailing address remains unchanged.

Activities in 2011-12

The Dawson District Renewable Resources Council underwent a financial audit in 2011-2012.

The Council received funding from the Yukon River Panel Restoration and Enhancement Fund for a Salmon Spawning and Rearing Access Restoration project. The project, which was approved by Government of Yukon, as per the Council's mandate, aimed to restore salmon access to rearing habitat and encourage community stewardship.

The objectives of the project were to:

• restore chinook salmon stocks through increased access to rearing and overwintering habitat;
• involve, educate and provide experience for two students from the Robert Service School;
• build community capacity and stewardship for the restoration of salmon stocks and habitat;
• increase knowledge of salmon utilization of small streams in central Yukon;
• salvage salmon fry from isolated pools in the Klondike River floodplain; and
• develop a monitoring program for future assessment and restoration.

Two high school students were hired to assist with the field work. Only 66 juvenile Chinook salmon were captured in 2011. Fisheries and Oceans Canada provided technical support for the project which started July 4 and ended August 5. Factors for the low number of captured salmon could be the result of a low brood year and high water or the earlier start date compared to previous years. A public day was held August 4, where elders and children were taken out for the day to view the operation.

The Council continued to workclosely with Government of Yukon, Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in and the public to complete the Dawson Forest Resources Management Plan. Two meetings were held in the fall of 2011 and the draft plan was in the process of being approved by the Government of Yukon. Council anticipates public consultation on the plan to take place during the summer and fall of 2012.

The Council had grave concerns regarding the moose population in the White Gold area, and work with the Dawson Regional Biologist was instrumental in completing a moose survey for the area in March. The Council also held a public open house to educate the public about the moose population in the White Gold area.

A well attended public meeting was held in Dawson on April 19 to gather public input for the Wolf Conservation and Management Plan.

The Council continued to be involved in the Dawson Regional Land Use Planning process. Members attended a two day workshop in Dawson on January 18 and 19, 2012.

Activities in 2011-12

The Laberge Renewable Resources Council was an active participant at various meetings and workshops. Members participated on the Yukon River Panel Working Group, the Elk Management Technical Team and the Yukon Inter Tribal Watershed Council. The Council attended the Yukon Fish and Wildlife Management Board Annual Co-Chair Meeting, the Wood Bison Technical Team meeting, the Salmon Sub-Committee meeting, a meeting with Government of Yukon, Forest Resources, the Outfitter Quota Guideline meeting, and the Wildlife Regulation changes meeting. Council members also took part in the 2011 Annual General Workshop of Renewable Resources Councils in Carmacks, the Yukon Environment Forum and the Yukon Species at Risk Working Group. The Council reviewed project proposals and provided written comments to the Yukon Economic and Socio-Economic Assessment Board and the Yukon Water Board.

Two board member's positions expired January, 2012 and by March, 2012 no new appointments had been made. The implication of these two vacancies made the performance and decision making process for the Council difficult when a quorum was required. The Council worked to build trust and a close working relationship between members of the Council so that all members could participate equally.

In September 2010 the Council and staff attended a retreat at the Takhini Hot Springs and used the time to develop a Strategic Plan for 2011-2012 and to build relationships.

Activities in 2011-12

The Council received five applications for open traplines, and five re-issuance applications. The Government of Yukon and First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun worked towards 70 percent First Nation trapline allotment, and for better utilization of existing traplines.

The Council continued to develop a positive working relationship with Victoria Gold for the company's proposed Eagle Gold heap leaching project. The company held regular community meetings and corresponded with the Council.

Wildlife data collection surveys continued for unclassified areas throughout the vast untallied areas which are heavily explored for mineral resources.

The implications of Yukon Energy's Mayo Lake Enhancement Project throughout the watershed continued to concern the Council. There was no reply to the Council's submitted concerns about application for the drawdown of water on Mayo Lake. The concern is that there is risk and uncertainty regarding potential effects to fisheries resources.

Activities in 2011-12

The Teslin Renewable Resources Council, together with the Teslin Tlingit Council Lands and Resources Department, planned a "Take a Kid Trapping" project to promote trapping among youth within the Teslin Tlingit Council Traditional Territory. Unfortunately, the project was not completed as planned, but the Council gained valuable knowledge for planning future projects of this nature.

The Yukon Outfitters Association and the Teslin Tlingit Council each provided financial incentives to trappers who focused on harvesting wolves on their traplines. In May 2012, a dinner meeting with area trappers was held to hear their suggestions and concerns. At the meeting, the current Standard Operating Guidelines for the Council were reviewed and comments received.

As partners in the Nisutlin River Delta National Wildlife Area Management Plan, the Teslin Renewable Resources Council and the Teslin Tlingit Council continued to work with Environment Canada, Canadian Wildlife Services on matters related to the Delta Area. New signs were posted to identify boundaries and explain activities that are allowed in the Area. The partners to the Plan jointly developed the information and agreed on the placement of the signs and kiosks in specific locations to promote awareness of the Area.

The Nisutlin River Delta National Wildlife Area Management Plan was in the final stage of the review process. The Government of Yukon and Environment Canada, Canada Wildlife Services continued to work together on the regulatory and enforcement issues within the Wildlife Area.

Council members participated in trips into the Nisutlin Bay area where the Department of National Defence erected signs warning the public of possible unexploded ordinances. It is believed that a Canadian Air Force plane may have crashed there in the 1940s during a training mission. However, neither the plane nor its cargo was located during an inspection in the summer of 2011.

Council members cooked lunch for more than 100 Teslin community members who attended the Council's annual barbecue and information session.

The Council provided some financial support to the Teslin Lake Bird Observatory for its operation in the fall of 2011.

The Council provided financial support for the "Wolves of the Yukon" book presentation and signing in Teslin.

The Council also made a financial contribution towards the summer science camp for local youth held in August 2011 at the Teslin Campus of Yukon College. The camp exposed youth to a variety of outdoor nature activities.

The Teslin Renewable Resources Council, Teslin Tlingit Council and the Government of Yukon determined that more local and traditional knowledge will be required to implement the Teslin Strategic Forest Management Plan.

A professor and team of graduate students from the University of Northern British Columbia worked with Council members, the Teslin Tlingit Council, the Government of Yukon, and local residents to better understand community concerns about forests. Changes, impacts on forest health, the harvesting of moose and plants for food/medicine and other values were considered. Open houses are expected to be held in 2012 and 2013.

The Council attended meetings to hear different areas of concern, and continued to be involved with the development of the Yukon Wolf Conservation and Management Plan. The Government of Yukon's Minister of Environment accepted the recommended plan in the spring of 2012. A majority of the wolf management proposals made by the Council were adopted into the Plan.

Activities in 2011-12

On October 18, 2011, the Dispute Resolution Board held a workshop for its mediators, arbitrators, members and staff. The workshop was facilitated by former Council of Yukon First Nations negotiator, Dave Joe. Participants explored the history of the Yukon land claim process and reviewed the Umbrella Final Agreement chapters with a focus on references to the dispute resolution process.

During the fiscal year, the Board received three mediation referrals, of which two did not proceed to mediation. The third mediation was productive with the two Parties breaking to do some internal research before deciding if they would require a second session.

The Board advertised in the Yukon and British Columbia for mediators and arbitrators with knowledge of Aboriginal land claim issues. This resulted in a positive response and additions were made to the Board's roster of mediators and arbitrators.

The Board met with the Chair and Executive Director of the Yukon Surface Rights Board, to share strengths and challenges experienced.

The Board met with representatives of the Implementation Working Group to clarify the nomination and appointment process. The Implementation Working Group amended the Umbrella Final Agreement Implementation Plan to reflect a joint appointment process agreed to by the Parties.

Board member terms expired on January 14, 2012, and by March 31, 2012 new appointments had not been made. This resulted in the Board becoming inoperable. The Board consulted with Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada and arranged for the continued payment of operational expenses by putting Board funds in trust with a local legal firm. The summer student position was cancelled and the Parties to the Umbrella Final Agreement were notified of the situation.

Once operable, the Board continued to respond to questions regarding the Yukon land claims enrollment process, maintained the enrollment records and referred individuals to the appropriate First Nation citizenship offices.

Activities in 2011-12

The Training Policy Committee issued a call for proposals for the development of generic training with closing dates of May 15 and December 15, 2011. The projects were for the following categories: Financial Management; Heritage and Culture Management; Human Resource Management; Justice; Lands and Resources Management; Management and Planning; Office Administration; and, Understanding Self-Government.

The Yukon Indian People Training Trust (the "Trust") financially supported Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in for the pursuit of excellence, co-operative education and post-secondary projects. The programs were well attended and beneficiaries learned new skills to enhance their employability and social interactions.

The Trust financially supported the Ta'an Kwäch'än Council for the heritage restoration project of the Frank Slim building located in Upper Lake Laberge. The trainees were guided by Elder Glenn Grady who shared oral traditions during the restoration work.

The Trust financially supported training for First Nation human resource managers on the Canada Labour Code. The training covered Section III of the Canada Labour Code, and regulations for Occupational Health & Safety. Participants identified a need for further human resource training.

The Committee developed and adopted a 1 year work plan, a 5 year Strategic Plan (2012-2017), and a 10 year work plan (2012-2022), all of which provide direction for activities within the existing budget.

Activities in 2011-12

The Board had one of the busiest years since its inception with a total of 324 projects submitted to Designated Offices for review. The Board received one project proposal for review by the Executive Committee in 2011: the Ketza River Mine. More than 40 outreach activities were conducted during the year and included presentations, open houses, and meetings with various organizations, First Nations, the Governments of Yukon and Canada, and the public.

The Board continued to develop sector-specific project proposal forms for forestry and land disposition. The new forms will include sector-specific questions that will improve the quality of the project proposals and make the process more efficient by encouraging the submission of information early in the process, rather than having to request more information during the review and assessment stages. Work on sector-specific forms for the quartz and placer sectors continued as a joint initiative with Government of Yukon's Mineral Resources Branch and the Yukon Water Board Secretariat (placer only) to develop combined application forms.

The Proponent's Guide to Water Information Requirements for Quartz Mining Project Proposals was completed and released. The Guide was developed with input from First Nations, Government of Yukon, Government of Canada, the Yukon Water Board and other technical experts.

The Board also produced Dam Guide: Design Expectations and Required Information with input from the Government of Yukon and the Yukon Water Board.

The Board completed and released Heritage Resource Information Requirements for Land Applications Proposals Policy.

The Board continued gathering wildlife data in the White Gold area to help inform cumulative effects assessments.

The Board continued its involvement in the Five-year Review of the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Act, and participated in the preparation of the "Draft Review Report-Interim," dated March 31, 2012.

A future challenge for the Board will be capacity constraints in relation to the ability of First Nations and governments to provide input into project proposals. This may have effects on the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Act process.

Baseline information gaps and the need for current information will require the Board to update the White Gold studies, and initiate new cumulative effects studies in other areas with high project activity.

Salmon Sub-Committee

P.O. Box 31094, Whitehorse, Yukon, Y1A 5P7
Phone: 867-393-6725
Fax: 866-914-7708
E-mail: executivedirector@yssc.ca
Web: www.yssc.ca

The Yukon Fish and Wildlife Management Board, Salmon Sub-Committee is a public advisory body established under Chapter 16 of the Umbrella Final Agreement and the Yukon First Nation Final Agreements. The Yukon Fish and Wildlife Management Board, the federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, and the First Nations located in the Alsek, Porcupine and Yukon River drainage basins each nominate two members to the Sub-Committee.

The Salmon Sub-Committee is established as the main instrument of salmon management in the Yukon, and may make recommendations to the federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and to Yukon First Nations on all matters related to salmon, their habitat and management, including: legislation; research; and, policies and programs. Additionally, the Umbrella Final Agreement requires that Sub-Committee members make up the majority of the Canadian representatives on the Yukon River Panel (established under the Yukon River Salmon Agreement between the Government of Canada and the United States of America).

Activities in 2011-12

The Board held two meetings to review place name submissions from various First Nations. Two Board members, along with Board Secretariat, participated in a training workshop on Yukon First Nations' history and self-government.

In August 2011, two Board members and the Board Secretariat attended the annual meeting of the Geographic Names Board of Canada in Dawson City, Yukon.

Aerial photo documentation takes place annually and is used to provide complete information on place names recommended for approval by the Government of Yukon, Minister of Tourism and Culture.

Engaging First Nations' expertise in the place names process is necessary, but there are challenges in resolving linguistic and jurisdictional issues.

Activities in 2011-12

The Yukon Heritage Resources Board continued to meet the quarterly financial and progress reporting obligations, and annual audit obligation, set out in its Transfer Payment Funding Agreement.

The Board continues to participate as an observer on the Chapter 13 Heritage Manual Drafting Committee, and provides input on the manual development process as requested by the participating Parties.

In July 2011, the Board attended and assisted with a ceremony recognizing the designation of Fort Selkirk as a Yukon territorial historic site, held on location. Fort Selkirk is co-owned and co-managed by the Government of Yukon and the Selkirk First Nation under terms set out in the Selkirk First Nation Final Agreement.

In November 2011, the Board completed a new strategic plan that will guide the Board's priorities and activities for the next five years. Throughout the year, the Board undertook activities and training in order to meet the goals and objectives outlined in the newly-adopted strategic plan.

Throughout the year, board members participated in a wide variety of outreach activities including: conferences; training; events; information sessions; and, hosted meetings and events for the heritage community, Yukon Boards and Committees, and the public. The Board continued to work with several partners to organize the Yukon Territorial Heritage Fair.

Activities in 2011-12

The Council met eight times and held one strategic planning session.

The Council assisted the Peel Watershed Planning Commission with maintaining the Commission's financial administration system, dedicating the Council's Senior Planner to perform the Commission's work and organizing Commission meetings. The Council staff also coordinated the production of a summary document for the Final Recommended Plan.

The Council assisted the Dawson Regional Planning Commission with financial administration (policy and procedures) by establishing an office in Dawson, presenting at community consultation events and creating the Commission's website.

The Council continued to conduct conformity checks on projects occurring in the region covered by the North Yukon Regional Plan.

The focus of much of the activity of the Council involved updating the Council's 1998 recommendation regarding planning regions in the Territory. The Council recommended a new configuration in September 2011 to Yukon Government, Kluane First Nation, Ta'an Kwäch'än Council, Little Salmon / Carmacks First Nation, Champagne and Aishihik First Nations, Carcross/Tagish First Nation, Kwanlin Dün First Nation and Teslin Tlingit Council.

The Council hosted two regional planning workshops -The Story of Wooshitin wudidaa which examined the Atlin Taku Land Use Planand The Boom and Beyond workshop regarding regional planning in the Dawson Region.

Peel Watershed Planning Commission

c/o Yukon Land Use Planning Council
307 Jarvis Street, Suite 201, Whitehorse, Yukon, Y1A 2H3
Phone: 867-667-7397
Toll free: 1-866-353-2374
Fax: 867-667-4624
E-mail: peel@planyukon.ca

Under Chapter 11 of the Umbrella Final Agreement, the Peel Watershed Planning Commission is responsible for developing and recommending a draft regional land use plan for the Peel watershed planning region. The Commission is comprised of 6 members: one nominated by the First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun; one nominated by the Gwich'in Tribal Council; one nominated jointly by Government of Yukon and the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation; one nominated jointly by the Government of Yukon and the Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in; and, two nominated by the Government of Yukon.

Activities in 2011-12

In addition to fulfilling its legislative responsibilities, the Board:

• updated its communications material, modeled on a new marketing theme;
• raised awareness about the Board's role and process;
• participated in Board development and training opportunities; and,
• maintained an active membership in the Canadian Council for Administrative Tribunals.

No applications were made to the Board during the 2011-2012 fiscal year.

Activities in 2011-12

Yukon Government departments were involved in working with Self-Governing Yukon First Nations in areas such as heritage, land use planning, economic development, justice and education. For this fiscal year, the Yukon Government would like to highlight the following activities:

• the Yukon and Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in Departments of Education entered into a partnership agreement to clarify roles and responsibilities in regard to education priorities identified by Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in; 
• the Yukon Department of Energy Mines and Resources supported the First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun, Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in, and Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation in an application for funding from the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency to prepare a feasibility study and business case for supplying Yukon natural gas to Yukon industrial and utility consumers;
• the Yukon Department of Energy Mines and Resources completed the title transfer of the Tagish North West Mounted Police Heritage Site, and is in the process of finalizing title transfer for the Conrad Heritage Site to tenants in common with the Commissioner and Carcross/Tagish First Nation; and,
• in an effort to build awareness and establish networks between First Nations, First Nation Development Corporations, and the mining sector, the Government of Yukon provided funding to the Selkirk Development Corporation, Nacho Nyak Dun Development Corporation, Kluane First Nation, Champagne and Aishihik First Nations, and Carmacks Development Corporation for representatives to attend various conferences and workshops.

Activities in 2011-12

Activities in 2011-12

The Whitehorse campus of the Canada School of Public Service delivered a broad variety of courses including: Workplace Stress Strategies; Essentials of Supervising; Fundamentals of Budget and Control; Mediating Conflict; and Writing in Clear Language. The Canada School of Public Service also hosted free armchair discussions and Lunch and Learn sessions on Energy Management; Employee Engagement in the Workplace; Leadership in Action; and Hospice & Healing.

The employees of Yukon First Nation governments were invited to and participated in all sessions. Yukon First Nations may request tailored delivery of any courses and have the option to access custom-designed courses. One custom-designed workshop, regarding human resource management, was delivered through the Council of Yukon First Nations and was open to human resource managers for all Yukon First Nations.

The School's Learning Advisor (appointed by the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada) represents the Government of Canada on the Training Policy Committee, and is a trustee of the Yukon Indian People Training Trust created under the Umbrella Final Agreement. In 2011-2012, the Learning Advisor also participated in Yukon First Nation conferences in Whitehorse.

Activities in 2011-12

The implementation activities of the Department of Canadian Heritage continue to address the obligations of Chapter 13 of the individual Yukon First Nation Final Agreements and Implementation Plans. The Department remains a part of a whole of Government approach responding to treaty implementation obligations in the Yukon. The Department of Canadian Heritage continues to meet its obligations relative to First Nations' culture and heritage in the Yukon with various program elements available to all Yukon First Nations. Funding decisions are based on proposals that are assessed and determined to promote heritage and cultural development in Canada.

Agreements were reached with all eleven Self-Governing Yukon First Nations for the assumption of responsibility and related funding for the time-limited Department of Canadian Heritage Aboriginal Languages Initiative which will expire on March 31, 2014.

Environmental Protection Operations Directorate

91782 Alaska Highway, Whitehorse, Yukon, Y1A 5X7
Phone: 867-667-3400
Fax: 867- 667-7962
E-mail: Rose.Berndt@ec.gc.ca
Web: www.ec.gc.ca

Environment Canada's implementation activities primarily address obligations under the Yukon First Nation Final Agreements. The Department's activities are specifically linked to: Chapter 16 - Fish and Wildlife Management; Chapter 10 - Special Management Areas; Chapter 11 - Land Use Planning; Chapter 12 - Development Assessment; Chapter 14 - Water Management; and Chapter 18 -Non-Renewable Resources.

Canadian Wildlife Service, Northern Conservation Division

91780 Alaska Highway, Whitehorse, Yukon, Y1A 5X7
Phone: 867- 393-6700
Fax: 867-393-7970
E-mail: Linda.Moen@ec.gc.ca
Web: www.ec.gc.ca

Environment Canada's Canadian Wildlife Service is responsible for the management and conservation of migratory birds (as defined under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, the federal act that implements the Canada/US Migratory Birds Convention); and for implementation of the federal Species at Risk Act with regard to listed non-aquatic species not found on federal lands within a national park, national historic site or other protected heritage area. The Canadian Wildlife Service also implements the Canada Wildlife Act which governs the management of the Nisutlin National Wildlife Area in Yukon. The Canadian Wildlife Service participates in environmental assessments conducted under the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Act and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act within the Yukon; regional land use and resource management planning processes; and protected areas management and planning processes.

Activities in 2011-12

Fisheries and Oceans Canada continued to focus on communication and partnering with Yukon First Nations which was instrumental to support Yukon First Nations' management measures to achieve their conservation objectives.

The Department also maintained partnerships and communication with transboundary First Nations through co-management bodies established under the Pacific Salmon Treaty.

Activities in 2011-12

Health Canada maintained relationships with the eleven self-governing Yukon First Nations and the Council of Yukon First Nations.

Amendment Agreements were reached with all eleven self-governing Yukon First Nations for the assumption of responsibility and related funding for time-limited Health Canada programs including Aboriginal Diabetes, Maternal Child Health and National Aboriginal Youth Suicide Prevention. These Amendment Agreements will expire on March 31, 2015.

Health Canada facilitated and funded (through Health Consultation) a contract with the Canadian Executive Services Organization through the Council for Yukon First Nations (as the chair of the Yukon Fist Nations Health and Social Development Commission) to assist all Yukon First Nations with the development of health plans.

Activities in 2011-12

Human Resources and Skills Development Canada met with representatives from the self-governing Yukon First Nations to reach an agreement to negotiate agreements which pertain to labour market development programming.

Under section 17 of the Yukon First Nation Self-Government Agreements, Canada is required to negotiate the assumption of programs from Human Resources and Skills Development Canada. The self-governing Yukon First Nations currently receive funding for labour market development programming through the Council of Yukon First Nations.

The Department tabled a draft labour market development agreement on January 24, 2012. As of March 31, 2012, the self-governing Yukon First Nations had yet to submit a formal response.

The Department began developing a Modern Treaty Implementation Policy that would enable more effective and efficient implementation of labour market development provisions in modern treaties.

Activities in 2011-12

Pursuant to section 6.5.3 of the respective Yukon First Nations Final Agreements, the Joint Task Force (North) sent its Annual Activity Notification Letter to all of the Yukon First Nations and the Council of Yukon First Nations, to provide notification of planned Joint Task Force (North) activities taking place in the Yukon in fiscal year 2011-2012.

Activities in 2011-12

Work continued to complete the surveys of Settlement Land for nine of the eleven Yukon First Nations with Final Agreements. Survey programs for the First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun and Selkirk First Nation are complete.

Activities in 2011-12

Parks Canada's Yukon Field Unit is responsible for the administration of two national parks and seven national historic sites in the Yukon, and one in British Columbia.

National Parks

• Kluane National Park and Reserve
• Vuntut National Park

National Historic Sites

• Chilkoot Trail National Historic Site of Canada (British Columbia)
• S.S. Klondike National Historic Site of Canada
• Klondike National Historic Sites of Canada (encompasses 5 National Historic Sites ):
  • Dawson Historical Complex National Historic Site of Canada;
  • Dredge No. 4 National Historic Site of Canada;
  • S.S. KenoNational Historic Site of Canada;
  • The Former Territorial Court House National Historic Site of Canada; and
  • Discovery Claim National Historic Site of Canada

Parks Canada worked collaboratively with several Yukon First Nations to administer national parks and national historic sites, including incorporating traditional knowledge into much of the programming and the establishment of Management Boards. Elders shared knowledge of trails, plants, animals and were active in the development of displays for the Chilkoot Trail, Tachal Dhal in Kluane National Park, and Vuntut National Park.

In Dawson City, Parks Canada worked closely with Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in to develop and write the Management Plan for the newly-established Tr'ochëk National Historic Site which is owned and operated by Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in. A Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada commemorative plaque was unveiled.

In collaboration with Kluane First Nation and Champagne and Aishihik First Nations, Parks Canada completely re-developed the visitor centre exhibits and audio-visual products for the Kluane National Park and Reserve. This was done in anticipation of opening the Kluane National Park and Reserve Visitor Centre in the new Champagne and Aishihik First Nations Da Kų Cultural Centre in June 2012.

Parks Canada provided funding for the operation of the Kluane National Park Management Board, which facilitates First Nation and local stakeholder involvement in the management of Kluane National Park & Reserve in support of Parks Canada's mandate.

Vuntut National Park is in a multi-year agreement with the Government of Yukon, Government of Northwest Territories, the Council of Yukon First Nations, the Inuvialuit Game Council, the Dene Nation and the Métis Association of the Northwest Territories that make up the Porcupine Caribou Management Board.

A cooperation agreement exists between the North Yukon Renewable Resources Council, Parks Canada and the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation which provides strategic direction, and allows the Parties to the agreement to provide recommendations and advice to one another on matters related to renewable resources, initiatives and education.

While the Chilkoot Trail National Historic Site is located in British Columbia, the Yukon Field Unit is responsible due to geographical location and ease of operations. The site operates much like Parks' areas covered by Yukon First Nation land claim agreements. For example, staff, Elders' visits and traditional teachings on the trail are primarily citizens of the Carcross/Tagish First Nations.

The Aboriginal Leadership Development Program is a national, four-year training and development program for Aboriginal leaders within Parks Canada, and is aimed at the long-term retention of Aboriginal employees. In partnership with Yukon College since 2000, 124 participants from across the country have completed or are in the midst of completing their training. Program success hinges on continued support and participation from various Yukon First Nation Elders, Aboriginal leaders and community members.

Activities in 2011-12

Public Safety Canada officials participated in the implementation of the Teslin Tlingit Council's Administration of Justice Agreement and in the ongoing negotiations for Administration of Justice Agreement Framework Agreements between Canada, Yukon and several Yukon First Nations.

Officials from Public Safety Canada's Aboriginal Policing Directorate participated in implementation related activities in Yukon.