Model Forest approach
The Model Forest approach
The Model Forest Approach was initiated by the Government of Canada in the early 1990s. The approach was developed to address conflicting views about how forests should be managed. The idea was to shift from prioritizing the logging industry to balancing the social, environmental, economic and cultural benefits of forest landscapes.
The first 10 Model Forests were developed in Canada as neutral forums where stakeholders worked together to find ways to manage forest landscapes sustainably. The success of these early Model Forests led Canada to launch the International Model Forest Network in 1992 to encourage other countries to explore the potential of the Model Forest approach.
Model Forest principles
- Partnership: We are a common space for voluntary participation within a large shared landscape.
- Landscape: We consider multiple social, cultural, economic and environmental aspects within a shared landscape.
- Commitment to sustainability: We are committed to the conservation and sustainable management of forest landscapes.
- Governance: Our process is representative, participatory, transparent and accountable.
- Programme of activities: Each Model Forest undertakes activities that reflect its vision and the needs of its stakeholders.
- Knowledge-sharing, capacity building and networking: Model Forests collaborate to share and learn from one another.
Characteristics of Model Forests
Model Forest landscapes can be defined in various ways – by administrative boundaries, for instance, or by a geographic boundary such as a watershed.
Each Model Forest is unique in terms of priorities, activities and approaches. However, we all have the following characteristics:
- A strategic plan developed in a participatory and transparent manner
- An accountable, transparent and effective governance structure
- Annual work plans, including programme areas, activities, planned outputs and a timeline for implementation
- A financial plan or budget
- A framework for monitoring and evaluating implementation of the strategic plan
- A plan for communication and knowledge sharing
To learn more about these elements, including how to set up a Model Forest, see the International Model Forest Network toolkit.