Integrated Resource Management

Program Description

With a focus on environmental stewardship and sustainability, our Integrated Resource Management (IRM) team provides technical advice and assistance to member First Nations on various aspects of resource management.  

From fisheries and aquaculture to agriculture and forestry, our dedicated team takes pride in tailoring our expertise to areas that are important for the sustainable development of First Nations communities. 

The work we do is reflected by Netukulimk (neh-doo-goo-limgp), the concept of taking only what you need from nature in order to sustain the resource for future generations. Mi’kmaq communities have recognized and practiced Netukulimk for centuries and it has been the foundation for sustaining Mi’kmaq families, communities, and society since time immemorial – over 12,000 years.

We help strengthen communication and relationships between First Nations communities, government, municipalities, businesses, and environmental organizations to promote and support sustainable management of resources.

Together, we can create a sustainable future

Areas of Focus

Fisheries & Aquaculture  Fisheries and aquacultures are foundational to Indigenous cultures and ways of life. We work collaboratively with First Nations communities to protect fisheries and aquatic resources and build capacity within communities.
Forestry Management  We work closely with First Nations communities to manage and conserve forests in a way that is environmentally and economically sustainable.
Oceans Management With the help of research and scientific practices, we focus on the management and ecological monitoring of coastal and marine ecosystems.
Research & Land Use Interviews We have a team dedicated to preserving land use stories and experiences to support science and research initiatives related to resource management.
Watershed Management We provide technical advice and support to empower First Nations communities to manage the sustainable use of natural resources within a specific watershed.
Solid Waste Management  Implementing strategies within First Nations communities to reduce, reuse, and recycle waste, with a focus on minimizing environmental impact.
Climate Change Adaptation Climate change adaptation is integrated into all aspects of our work, guiding our efforts to proactively develop strategies to mitigate its effects on First Nation communities, ecosystems, and resources.
Geographical Information Systems By utilizing spatial data and technology to analyze and visualize information, we can improve decision-making that supports environmental stewardship. 

Mi'kmaq Land Use Project

Since its inception in 2004, the Mi’kmaq Land Use project has been an important initiative in preserving and celebrating Indigenous knowledge regarding the land and waters of Epekwitk (PEI).

Our Mi’kmaq Land Use Interviewer and Field Researcher delicately unravels the threads of living memory including hunting grounds, fishing spots, camping sites, and other cultural landmarks. Ensuring that these stories are gathered and preserved for future generations, this invaluable project contributes to science and research initiatives related to resource management. To view the Mi’kmaq Land Use Maps, click here.

Join us in the this journey of discovery and preservation by participating in an interview, and you’ll be entered into our monthly draw for a $100 gift card of choice.

Preserve Your Stories for Future Generations

Program Highlights