Public Registry

PUBLIC REGISTRY of consultations

The Gwich’in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement (GCLCA) sets out the authority of the GRRB to “establish rules and procedures for the carrying out of any consultation required by these provisions” (s. 12.8.23g).  The GRRB regularly consults with the Gwich’in, Renewable Resource Councils (RRCs), other Gwich’in organizations, federal and territorial governments and the general public, with the main goal of protecting the wildlife and wildlife habitat within the GSA.

The GRRB has engaged the Gwich’in in the development of the GRRB’s rules and procedures for consultation. All consultation documents in the public record will be provided on the public registry.

GRRB Consultation Rules and Procedures – The GRRB will consult on a variety of topics, including limitation of harvest, setting Gwich’in Needs Levels, approval of management plans, advice to government, making decisions on commercial harvesting, setting research priorities in the GSA and more.

GRRB Internal Response Policy for Research and Regulatory Reviews – The GRRB has adopted an internal policy outlining internal response procedures to requests for research and development proposals.

GRRB Rules for Public Hearings – These are the rules that the Board follows when holding a public hearing. A public hearing may be held for any of topics identified above, but most likely occurs for limiting harvest when a total allowable harvest is required.

PUBLIC REGISTRY - ADVICE TO GOVERNMENTS - SPECIES AT RISK

The public is encouraged to email comments to the GRRB Executive Director by July 30, 2022.

Proposed down-listing of Barn Swallow from Threatened to Special Concern

Proposed up-listing of Short-eared Owl from Special Concern to Threatened

Proposed listing of Lesser Yellowlegs as Threatened

Applicable sections of the GRRB Consultation Rules and Procedures policy are indicated in italics.

  1. Consultation Round #1
    Draft document posted on the Public Registry and circulated to Renewable Resource Councils (RRCs) and Gwich’in Tribal Council (GTC) Lands Department via email for 6-month review and comments (s. ). 
  2. Consultation Summary #1
    Summary of Consultation Round #1 provided to RRCs and made available for review through the GRRB’s Public Registry within 30 days of the last consultation session (s. ).
  3. SARC Consultation Packages Posted
     Once the Species At Risk Committee (SARC) has assessed the species and consultation packages are received, they are posted on the Public Registry and circulated to RRCs and GTC Lands Department (s. ).
  4. Consultation Round #2
    GRRB hosts community consultation sessions with RRCs, Gwich’in organizations and the public to discuss proposed Listing, providing at least 30 days’ notice before each session (s. ).
  5. Consultation Summary #2
    Summary of Consultation Round #2 provided to RRCs and made available for review through the GRRB’s Public Registry within 30 days of the last consultation session (s. ). 
  6. Feedback
    Written comments and approval (or non-support) from RRCs and community members are due within 30 days after each consultation session (s. ). 
  7. Submission to GRRB
    Proposed Listing sent to GRRB for Board decision (s. ).
  8. Board Decision
    GRRB submits motion for approval (or non-support) to Conference of Management Authorities (CMA) (s. ).
  9. Submission to Minister
    GRRB signs Consensus Agreement and Listing is sent to Minister of  Environment and Natural Resources (s. ).

Applicable sections of the GRRB Consultation Rules and Procedures policy are indicated in italics.

  1. Consultation Round #1
    Draft document posted on the Public Registry and circulated to Renewable Resource Councils (RRCs) and Gwich’in Tribal Council (GTC) Lands Department via email for 6-month review and comments (s. ). 
  2. Consultation Summary #1
    Summary of Consultation Round #1 provided to RRCs and made available for review through the GRRB’s Public Registry within 30 days of the last consultation session (s. ).
  3. Consultation Round #2
    GRRB hosts community consultation sessions with RRCs, Gwich’in organizations and the public to discuss proposed Management Plan or Recovery Strategy, providing at least 30 days’ notice before each session (s. ).
  4. Consultation Summary #2
    Summary of Consultation Round #2 provided to RRCs and made available for review through the GRRB’s Public Registry within 30 days of the last consultation session (s. ). 
  5. Feedback
    Written comments and approval (or non-support) from RRCs and community members are due within 30 days after each consultation session (s. ). 
  6. Submission to GRRB
    Proposed Management Plan or Recovery Strategy sent to GRRB for Board decision (s. ).
  7. Board Decision
    GRRB submits motion for approval (or non-support) to Conference of Management Authorities (CMA) (s. ).
  8. Submission to Minister
    GRRB signs Consensus Agreement and Management Plan or Recovery Strategy is sent to Minister of  Environment and Natural Resources (s. ).

Species status in the NWT is determined by the NWT Species at Risk Committee (SARC). The following species found in the GSA have been assessed by SARC as potential Species at Risk. More details are available from SARC by clicking the species name. Reviews and other important events with GRRB participation are listed below.

Mammals

  • Barren-ground Caribou (Rangifer tarandus groenlandicus) – Threatened
    • Listing Annex B
    • Actions for consensus and Annex A approaches (2020)
    • Recovery Strategy Annex B (2020)
    • Draft 2 Recovery Strategy  (2019)
    • Recovery Strategy (2019)
    • Consensus agreement (2018)
    • Draft management plan (2018)
    • Listing Board approval (2018)
    • SARC assessment (2017)
    • Status Report (2015)
  • Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus) – Special Concern
    • Annex A approaches (2020)
    • Management Plan (2019)
    • Draft Management Plan (2019)
    • Draft Management Plan approach and outline (2018)
    • Draft Status Report (2016)
  • Northern Mountain Caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou, Northern Mountain population) – Special Concern
    • Listing Board approval
    • Actions for consensus (2020)
    • SARC assessment (2020)
  • Grizzly Bear (Ursus arctos) – Special Concern
    • Consensus agreement (2018)
    • Non-listing Annex B (2018)
    • Board does not approve listing (2018)
    • Draft Status Report (2016)
  • Boreal Caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou, Boreal population) – Threatened
    • Range planning framework comments (2018)
    • Implementation commitments (2017)
    • Recovery Strategy Board approval (2016)
    • Recovery Strategy consultation addition (2015)
    • Recovery Strategy consultation (2015)
    • Recovery Strategy goal wording (2015)
    • Recovery Strategy and Framework consultation results (2015)
    • Recovery Strategy and Framework (2014)
  • Wolverine (Gulo gulo) – Not at Risk
    • Request for clarification, Status Report (2015)
    • Draft Status Report (2014)

Arthropods

  • Gypsy Cuckoo Bumble Bee (Bombus bohemicus) – Data Deficient
    • Species At Risk Committee assessment (2019)
    • Conference of Management Authorities status assessment (2019)
    • Draft Status Report (2018)

Amphibians

Wood Frog (Lythobates silvaticus) is the only amphibian species found in the GSA. It is assumed to be Not at Risk.

    • Implementation commitments (2017)
    • Consensus agreement (2016)
    • Management Plan Board approval (2016)
    • Management Plan (2016)
    • Draft Management Plan, fact sheet, consultation results (2016)
    • Management planning (2015)

Applicable sections of the GRRB Consultation Rules and Procedures policy are indicated in italics.

  1. Consultation Round #1
    Draft Status Report received and posted on the Public Registry and circulated to Renewable Resource Councils (RRCs) and Gwich’in Tribal Council (GTC) Lands Department for comments (s. 4.2.1 (a)). 
  2. Consultation Summary #1
    Summary of Consultation Round #1 provided to RRCs and made available for review through the GRRB’s Public Registry within 30 days of the Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) deadline (s. 4.2.1 (a)).
  3. Six-Month Status Report Posted
    Six-Month Status Report received and posted on the Public Registry and sent to RRCs and GTC if they wish to continue to be engaged (s. ).
  4. Two-Month Status Report Posted
    Two-Month Status Report received and posted on the Public Registry and sent to RRCs and GTC if they wish to continue to be engaged (s. ).
  5. Consultation Packages Posted
    Once the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) has assessed the species and consultation packages are received, they are posted on the Public Registry and circulated to RRCs and GTC Lands Department (s. 4.2.1 (c) ). 
  6. Consultation Round #2
    GRRB hosts community consultation sessions with RRCs, Gwich’in organizations and the public to discuss proposed Listing, providing at least 30 days’ notice before each session (s. 4.2.1 (a)). 
  7. Consultation Summary #2
    Summary of Consultation Round #2 provided to RRCs and made available for review through the GRRB’s Public Registry within 30 days of the last consultation session (s. 4.2.1 (c)).
  8. Feedback
    Comments from RRCs and community members are due within 30 days of each consultation session (s. 4.2.1 (b)).
  9. Submission to GRRB
    Proposed Listing sent to GRRB for Board decision (s. ).
  10. Submission to Canadian Wildlife Service
    GRRB submits motion for approval to CWS (s. ).

Applicable sections of the GRRB Consultation Rules and Procedures policy are indicated in italics.

  1. Consultation Round #1
    Jurisdictional Review Draft 1 document received and posted on the Public Registry and circulated to Renewable Resource Councils (RRCs) and Gwich’in Tribal Council (GTC) Lands Department for comments (s. ). 
  2. Community Consultation
    GRRB hosts community consultation sessions with RRCs, Gwich’in organizations and the public to discuss draft Management Plan or Recovery Strategy, providing at least 30 days’ notice before each session (s. ). 
  3. Consultation Summary #1
    Summary of Consultation Round #1 provided to RRCs and made available for review through the GRRB’s Public Registry within 30 days of the last consultation session (s. ).
  4. Feedback
    Comments from RRCs and community members are due to Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) within 30 days of each consultation session (s.  ). 
  5. Consultation Round #2
    At Jurisdictional Review 2, if significant changes have been made to the document, another round of consultation occurs following steps 1-4 above (s. ).
  6. Submission to GRRB
    Proposed Management Plan or Recovery Strategy sent to GRRB for Board decision (s. ).
  7. Board approval
    GRRB submits motion for approval and support (or non-support) of posting on the Species At Risk registry for a 60-day public comment period to CWS (s. )
  8. Submission to Canadian Wildlife Service
    Final document is released by CWS 30 days later (s. ).

Species status in Canada (federal) is determined by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC). The following species found in the GSA have been assessed by COSEWIC as potential Species at Risk. More details are available from COSEWIC by clicking the species name. Reviews with GRRB participation and other important dates are listed below.

Birds

  • Barn swallow (Hirundo rustica) – Threatened
    • Reassessment Six-Month Status Report
    • Reassessment Draft Status Report (2020)
  • Hudsonian godwit (Limosa haemastica) – Threatened
    • Listing consultation
    • Six-Month Status Report (2019)
    • Six-Month Status Assessment (2018)
    • Request for information (2017)
  • Lesser yellowlegs (Tringa flavipes) – Threatened
    • Two-Month Status Report
    • Six-Month Status Report (2020)
    • Draft Status Assessment (2019)
    • Request for information (2019)
    • Preliminary review of candidate species (2016)
  • Red-necked phalarope (Phalaropus lobatus) – Special Concern
    • Management Plan Board approval
    • Management Plan support to post on registry (2020)
    • Draft Management Plan (2020)
    • Listing Board decision (2016)
    • Two-Month Status Report (2016)
    • Two-Month Status Report (2014)
    • Six-Month Status Report (2014)
    • Draft Status Report (2013)
  • Horned grebe (Podiceps auritus, Western population) – Special Concern
    • Management Plan posting on registry for 60-day public review (2020)
    • Management Plan Board approval (2019)
    • Management Plan review (2019)
    • Listing approval reconfirmation (2016)
    • Proposed Listing Board approval (2010)
  • Short-eared owl (Asio flammeus) – Special Concern
    • Reassessment Six-Month Status Report (2020)
    • Reassessment Draft Status Report (2019)
    • Reassessment request for information (2018)
    • Management Plan 60-day public comment period approval reconfirmed (2016)
    • Second Draft Management Plan comments, posting on registry for 60-day public review (2015)
    • Management Plan consultation results and Board approval (2014)
    • Draft Management Plan comments and consultation results (2014)
  • Olive-sided flycatcher (Contopus cooperi) – Special Concern
    • Downlisting Board approval (2019)
    • Reassessment Two-Month Status Report (2018)
    • Reassessment Six-Month Status Report (2018)
    • Reassessment Draft Status Report (2017)
    • Recovery Strategy 60-day public review Board approval (2015)
    • Recovery Strategy posting on public registry approval (2014)
    • Draft Recovery Strategy (2014)
  • Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus anatum/tundrius) – Not At Risk
    • Downlisting Board approval (2019)
    • Reassessment Two-Month Status Report (2017)
    • Reassessment Draft Status Report (2017)
    • Management Plan Board approval confirmation (2015)
    • Management Plan Board approval (2014)
    • Draft Management Plan comments and consultation results (2014)
  • Harris’s sparrow (Zonotrichia querula) – Special Concern
    • Listing Board approval (2018)
    • Six-Month Status Report (2017)
    • Draft Status Report (2016)
  • Rusty blackbird (Euphagus carolinus) – Special Concern
    • Reassessment Two-Month Status Report (2017)
    • Reassessment Six-Month Status Report (2016)
    • Reassessment Draft Status Report (2016)
    • 60-day public consultation Board approval (2014)
    • Management Plan Board approval (2013)
    • Listing Board approval (2007)
  • Bank swallow (Riparia riparia) – Threatened
    • Listing Board approval (2014)
    • Six-Month Status Report (2012)
    • Listing Board approval (2012)

Arthropods

  • Yellow-banded Bumble Bee (Bombus terricola) – Special Concern
    • Management Plan Board approval
    • Draft Management Plan comments and support to post on public registry (2020)
    • Listing Board approval (2016)
  • Gypsy Cuckoo Bumble Bee (Bombus bohemicus) – Endangered
    • Recovery Strategy Board approval (2019)
    • Recovery Strategy posted on public registry for 60-day public review (2019)
    • Recovery Strategy (2019)
    • Listing Board approval (2015)
    • Two-Month Status Report (2014)
  • Suckley’s Cuckoo Bumble Bee (Bombus suckleyi) – Threatened
    • Two-Month Status Report (2019)
    • Six-Month Status Report (2019)
    • Draft Status Report (2019)
  • Transverse Lady Beetle (Coccinella transversoguttata) – Special Concern
    • Listing Board approval (2018)
    • Two-Month Status Report (2016)
    • Six-Month Status Report (2016)
    • Draft Status Report (2016)

Fish

  • Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma malma, Western Arctic populations) – Special Concern
    • Proposed Listing Board approval reconfirmation (2015)

Mammals

  • Grizzly Bear (Ursus arctos, Western population) – Special Concern
    • Management Planning request for information and involvement (2019)
    • Listing Board approval (2013)
    • Approval to schedule for assessment (2006)
  • Barren-ground caribou (Rangifer tarandus, Barren-ground population) – Threatened
    • Listing Board approval (2018)
    • Two-Month Status Report (2016)
    • Six-Month Status Report (2016)
    • Draft Status Report (2014)
  • Woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus, Boreal population) – Threatened
    • Ministerial Order to protect Boreal caribou on federal land comments and Board review (2018)
    • Action Plan (2017)
    • Two-Month Status Report (2014)
    • Six-Month Status Report (2014)
    • Range Plan Draft Guidance Document (2014)
    • Draft Status Report (2013)
    • Proposed Recovery Strategy (2012)
  • Collared Pika (Ochotona collaris) – Special Concern
    • Invitation to partake in Management Plan writing (2018)
    • Listing approval reconfirmation (2016)
    • Listing Board approval (2013)
  • Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus) – Endangered
    • Recovery Strategy (2015)
    • Draft Recovery Strategy (2015)
  • Woodland Caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou, Northern Mountain population) – Special Concern
    • Listing Board approval (2015)
    • Two-Month Status Report (2014)
  • Wolverine (Gulo gulo) – Special Concern
    • Draft Management Plan (2024)
    • Listing Board approval (2015)
    • Two-Month Status Report (2014)
    • Six-Month Status Report (2014)
    • Approval to schedule for assessment (2006)

PUBLIC REGISTRY - Wildlife Management

The GRRB is the main instrument for wildlife and wildlife habitat management in the GSA under the GCLCA. Management planning involves the making and implementation of policies, decisions or plans, or the approval of plans, involving wildlife and wildlife habitat in all cases other than where a formal harvest allocation is in place or being proposed, or any decisions regarding commercial harvesting of wildlife.  The GRRB will engage the Gwich’in in a direct manner in the planning and management of wildlife and wildlife habitat. 

  • Amended draft management plan based on the public, co-management partners, and RRCs comments from October 2020 to March 2022.
  • Summary of changes to the 2002 management agreement (often called the tag system) incorporated in the new management plan
  • Summary of what we have heard during the shih consultations
  • Timeline of the consultation of the Shih Management Plan including the Harvest System
  • Decision not to have a Total Allowable Harvest for Shih

Applicable sections of the GRRB Consultation Rules and Procedures policy are indicated in italics.

  1. Consultation Round #1 – requirements met 
    GRRB hosts community consultation sessions with RRCs, Gwich’in organizations and the public to discuss potential management plan,
    providing at least 30 days notice before each session (s. 4.2.1 (a)).
    • July & August 2009 – informal update and notice to all RRCs by email about process and plan for fall meetings
    • October 5, 2009 – RRC invitations sent by GRRB and ENR
    • Engagement meetings held:
      • October 21 & 22, 2009 ERRC
      • November 2 & 3, 2009 NRRC
      • December 15, 2009 GGRRC
      • December 18, 2009 TRRC
  2. Consultation Summary – requirements met 
    Summary of Consultation Round #1 provided to RRCs and made available for review through the GRRB’s Public Registry within 30 days of the last consultation session in Round #1 (s. 4.2.1 (a)).
  3. Draft Management Plan Review – requirements met
    Draft management plan posted on the Public Registry and circulated to RRCs and GTC. GTC and public have at least 60 days to review and provide comments, while RRCs have at least 30 days to review before the second round of community consultation sessions are held (s. 4.2.1 (b)).
  4. Consultation Round #2 – requirements met
    GRRB holds community consultation sessions with RRCs to review the draft management plan. Comments are due within 30 days after each session (s. 4.2.1 (b)).
    • December 17, 2010 – invitations to February meeting and initial scheduling with RRCs began while waiting availability of completed draft (sent January 5, 2011)
    • Consultations on Draft Management Plan held:
      • February 14, 2011 NRRC
      • February 16, 2011 GGRRC
      • February 17, 2011 ERRC
      • February 18, 2011 TRRC
  5. Amended Draft Management Plan Review – requirements met 
    Amended draft management plan, based on RRC input and comments from Gwich’in and the general public, is sent to government wildlife managers providing 90 days for their review (s. 4.2.1 (c)).
  6. Consultation Summary #2 – requirements met in part
    Summary of Consultation Round #2 provided to RRCs and made available for review through the GRRB’s Public Registry within 30 days of receiving Government input (s. 4.2.1 (c)).
  7. Board Decision –
    Draft management plan sent for Board decision (s. 4.2.1 (d)).
  8. Management Plan Submission –
    GRRB submits recommended management plan to the relevant Minister for approval (s. 4.2.1 (d)).
  9. Ministerial Decision – 
    Minister has up to 90 days to accept, vary or set aside and replace the Board’s decision (s. 4.2.1 (d)).

Applicable sections of the GRRB Consultation Rules and Procedures policy are indicated in italics.

  1. Consultation Round #1 – requirements met 
    GRRB hosts community consultation sessions with RRCs, Gwich’in organizations and the public to discuss potential management plan,
    providing at least 30 days notice before each session (s. 4.2.1 (a)).
  2. Consultation Summary – requirements met 
    Summary of Consultation Round #1 provided to RRCs and made available for review through the GRRB’s Public Registry within 30 days of the last consultation session in Round #1 (s. 4.2.1 (a)).
  3. Draft Management Plan Review – requirements met
    Draft management plan posted on the Public Registry and circulated to RRCs and GTC. GTC and public have at least 60 days to review and provide comments, while RRCs have at least 30 days to review before the second round of community consultation sessions are held (s. 4.2.1 (b)).
  4. Consultation Round #2 – requirements met
    GRRB holds community consultation sessions with RRCs to review the draft management plan. Comments are due within 30 days after each session (s. 4.2.1 (b)).
  5. Amended Draft Management Plan Review – 
    Amended draft management plan, based on RRC input and comments from Gwich’in and the general public, is sent to government wildlife managers providing 90 days for their review (s. 4.2.1 (c)).
  6. Consultation Summary #2 – 
    Summary of Consultation Round #2 provided to RRCs and made available for review through the GRRB’s Public Registry within 30 days of receiving Government input (s. 4.2.1 (c)).
  7. Board Decision –
    Draft management plan sent for Board decision (s. 4.2.1 (d)).
  8. Management Plan Submission –
    GRRB submits recommended management plan to the relevant Minister for approval (s. 4.2.1 (d)).
  9. Ministerial Decision – requirements met 
    Minister has up to 90 days to accept, vary or set aside and replace the Board’s decision (s. 4.2.1 (d)).

Applicable sections of the GRRB Consultation Rules and Procedures policy are indicated in italics.

  1. Consultation Round #1 – requirements met 
    GRRB hosts community consultation sessions with RRCs, Gwich’in organizations and the public to discuss potential management plan,
    providing at least 30 days notice before each session (s. 4.2.1 (a)).
    • Community consultations held:
      • October 16, 2008 – Tsiigehtchic
      • October 20, 2008 – Aklavik
      • October 22, 2008 – Inuvik
      • November 27, 2008 – Fort McPherson
  2. Consultation Summary – requirements met 
    Summary of Consultation Round #1 provided to RRCs and made available for review through the GRRB’s Public Registry within 30 days of the last consultation session in Round #1 (s. 4.2.1 (a)).
  3. Draft Management Plan Review – requirements met
    Draft management plan posted on the Public Registry and circulated to RRCs and GTC. GTC and public have at least 60 days to review and provide comments, while RRCs have at least 30 days to review before the second round of community consultation sessions are held (s. 4.2.1 (b)).
  4. Consultation Round #2 – requirements met
    GRRB holds community consultation sessions with RRCs to review the draft management plan. Comments are due within 30 days after each session (s. 4.2.1 (b)).
  5. Amended Draft Management Plan Review – 
    Amended draft management plan, based on RRC input and comments from Gwich’in and the general public, is sent to government wildlife managers providing 90 days for their review (s. 4.2.1 (c)).
  6. Consultation Summary #2 – 
    Summary of Consultation Round #2 provided to RRCs and made available for review through the GRRB’s Public Registry within 30 days of receiving Government input (s. 4.2.1 (c)).
  7. Board Decision –
    Draft management plan sent for Board decision (s. 4.2.1 (d)).
  8. Management Plan Submission –
    GRRB submits recommended management plan to the relevant Minister for approval (s. 4.2.1 (d)).
  9. Ministerial Decision – requirements met 
    Minister has up to 90 days to accept, vary or set aside and replace the Board’s decision (s. 4.2.1 (d)).

Applicable sections of the GRRB Consultation Rules and Procedures policy are indicated in italics.

  1. Application Submission –  
    Application for commercial activity submitted to GRRB.
  2. Initial GRRB Review –
    GRRB determines if application is to be permitted in a particular area for a particular species or population of wildlife (s. 4.2.4 (b)).
    • If GRRB permits application and such commercial activity has not occurred in previous 3 years, proceed to Step 3.
    • If GRRB permits application and such commercial activity has occurred in previous 3 years, proceed to Step 5.
  3. Initial RRC Review –
    Affected RRC(s) review application. GRRB provides support to RRC(s) in understanding any implications the application might have for wildlife harvesting by Gwich’in (s. 4.2.1 (b)).
    • If RRC(s) refuse their consent, proceed to Step 4.
    • If RRC(s) give their consent, proceed to Step 5.
  4. GRRB Review of RRC Refusal – 
    The application will be denied unless the GRRB reviews the RRC(s) decision (upon application by an interested party or on its own motion) and finds the application to be “reasonable in all the circumstances” (s. 4.2.4 (c)).
    • If GRRB finds application to be “reasonable in all the circumstances”, proceed to Step 5.
    • If application is denied, proceed to Step 7.
  5. Consultation – 
    GRRB consults with RRC(s) and GTC on the terms and conditions for the proposed commercial activity (s. 4.2.4 (d)).
  6. Feedback – 
    GRRB posts possible terms and conditions on its registry and sends copies to RRC(s) and GTC, providing at least 90 days of commentary and feedback before GRRB gives the terms and conditions final consideration (s. 4.2.4 (d)).
  7. Consultation Summary –
    GRRB posts a summary of the consultation process on its Public Registry and provides a copy to RRCs within 30 days of making its decision (s. 4.2.4 (a)).

Applicable sections of the GRRB Consultation Rules and Procedures policy are indicated in italics.

  1. Initial GRRB Review –  
    GRRB provides affected RRC(s) with its preliminary assessment of the application (s. 4.2.4 (e)).
  2. RRC Review –
    GRRB allows affected RRC(s) at least 90 days to review the assessment. (s. 4.2.4 (e)).
  3. Consultation –
    GRRB holds consultation session(s) to review the assessment, answer questions and receive comments from affected RRC(s) (s. 4.2.4 (e)).
  4. Adverse Affect on Harvesting – 
    GRRB determines whether the proposed activity could adversely affect Gwich’in harvesting in the area concerned (s. 4.2.4 (e)).
    • If yes, proceed to Step 5.
    • If no, proceed to Step 8.
  5. RRC Consent – 
    GRRB requires the applicant to seek RRC(s) consent for the area (s. 4.2.4 (e)).
    • If the RRC(s) refuse(s) their consent, proceed to Step 6.
    • If the RRC(s) give(s) their consent, proceed to Step 8.
  6. GRRB Review of RRC Refusal – 
    The application will be denied unless the GRRB reviews the RRC(s) decision (upon application by an interested party or on its own motion) and finds the application to be “reasonable in all the circumstances” (s. 4.2.4 (f)).
    • If the application is found to be reasonable in all the circumstances, proceed to Step 7.
    • If the application is denied, proceed to Step 8.
  7. Feedback –
    GRRB provides the RRC(s) concerned with 90 days advance notice of the Board’s position and invites the RRC(s) to comment on the matter before making any final decision (s. 4.2.4 (f)).
  8. Consultation Summary –
    GRRB posts a summary of the consultation process on its Public Registry and provides a copy to RRCs within 30 days of making its final decision (s. 4.2.4 (a)).

PUBLIC REGISTRY - research

Section 12.8 of the GCLCA provides the Board with a mandate to conduct or participate in wildlife research studies in the Settlement Area.  The GRRB makes decisions at least annually on appropriate research activities, based on a number of considerations and in consultation with RRCs, Gwich’in organizations, federal and territorial organizations and academic institutions.  The primary consideration in assessing research priorities for support or participation will be its value or contribution to the wildlife management priorities established from time to time by the Board.

Applicable sections of the GRRB Consultation Rules and Procedures policy are indicated in italics.

Note: The Board will liaise throughout the year with the Gwich’in Tribal Council (GTC) Department of Cultural Heritage to better inform the Board’s research agenda and coordinate its actions with those of Gwich’in institutions (s. 3.1.4).

  1. Consultation Round #1
    GRRB prepares for the first of the bi-annual research consultation rounds with RRCs by providing each RRC with information material at least 21 days before their respective consultation session (s. 3.2.2). 
  2. Research Consultation Session
    GRRB leads a research consultation session in each Gwich’in community to update and discuss important research topics, including research priorities, tendering research and updates on research activities and the Board’s research liaison activities with other Gwich’in institutions. At its conclusion, participants will review the main topics and outcomes of their session (s. 3.1.2, 3.1.3, 3.2.3).
  3. Research Consultation Summary
     Within 30 days of the last consultation session in the consultation round, the GRRB provides summaries of the research consultation round to RRCs and makes them available for review through the GRRB’s Public Registry (s. 3.2.3).
  4. Consultation Round #2
    GRRB prepares for the second of the bi-annual research consultation rounds with RRCs by providing each RRC with information material at least 21 days before their respective consultation session (s. 3.3.2).
  5. Research Consultation Session
     GRRB leads a research consultation session with RRCs in each community to update and discuss important research topics, including research priorities, tendering research and updates on research activities and the Board’s research liaison activities with other Gwich’in institutions. At its conclusion, participants will review the main topics and outcomes of their session(s. 3.1.2, 3.1.3, 3.2.3) . 
  6. Research Consultation Summary
    Within 30 days of the last consultation session in the consultation round, the GRRB provides summaries of the research consultation round to RRCs and makes them available for review through the GRRB’s Public Registry (s. 3.2.3). 

PUBLIC REGISTRY - HARVEST LIMITS

Section 12.5 of the GCLCA states that the Board may limit the quantity of the harvest by the Gwich’in and outlines the procedures to do so.  GRRB will set the Gwich’in Minimum Needs Level for a species or population of wildlife according to the calculation in s.12.5.8 of the GCLCA and using the Gwich’in Harvest Study data.  The Board may also establish and adjust a Gwich’in Needs Level (GNL – a portion or all of the total allowable harvest).  The Board may establish, modify or remove total allowable harvest levels from time to time in the GSA, if required for conservation. These limits will require consultation with the Gwich’in and the federal and territorial governments. The establishment of a Total Allowable Harvest (TAH) will require a formal public hearing in addition to informal consultation with Gwich’in organizations and government.

Applicable sections of the GRRB Consultation Rules and Procedures policy are indicated in italics.

  1. Calculation and Comment Period –
    GRRB calculates the Gwich’in Minimum Needs Level according to formula in s.12.5.8 of GCLCA, and provides the calculations and all assumptions used to RRCs and to relevant government departments with a minimum of 30 days for comment to ensure that the appropriate information has been used (s. 5.2.1). 
  2. Setting the Gwich’in Minimum Needs Level –
    After commentary period, the GRRB shall set the Gwich’in Minimum Needs Level (s. 5.2.1).
  3. Consultation Summary –
    GRRB will post a summary of the consultation process on its Public Registry and provide a copy to all institutions involved within 45 days of setting the Gwich’in Minimum Needs Level (s. 5.2.5).

Applicable sections of the GRRB Consultation Rules and Procedures policy are indicated in italics.

  1. Consultation Round #1 –
    The GRRB prepares for a public hearing by first consulting with RRCs and GTC about the proposed Gwich’in Needs Level (s. 5.2.2). 
  2. Comment Period –
    GRRB sends the proposed Gwich’in Needs Level to RRCs, GTC and government to comment within 90 days on the proposed harvest allocation, unless circumstances require a shorter time (s. 5.2.2).
  3. Consultation Round #2 –
    GRRB consults with all stakeholders by holding a Public Hearing (see GRRB Rules for Public Hearings) on conservation requirements, the Gwich’in Needs Level and the Total Allowable Harvest (s. 5.2.3).
  4. Proposed Harvest Plan – 
    GRRB provides the proposed harvest plan through its Public Registry, providing third parties and the public with at least 60 days’ final notice prior to formal consideration for adoption by the Board (s. 5.2.4).

Applicable sections of the GRRB Consultation Rules and Procedures policy are indicated in italics.

  1. Comment Period –
    GRRB sends the proposed Gwich’in Needs Level to RRCs, GTC and government to comment within 90 days on the proposed harvest allocation, unless circumstances require a shorter time (s. 5.2.2).
  2. Proposed Harvest Plan – 
    GRRB provides the proposed harvest plan through its Public Registry, providing third parties and the public with at least 60 days’ final notice prior to formal consideration for adoption by the Board (s. 5.2.4).
  3. Consultation Summary –
    GRRB will post a summary of the consultation process on its Public Registry and provide a copy to all institutions involved within 45 days of setting the Gwich’in Minimum Needs Level (s. 5.2.5).

PUBLIC REGISTRY - TRADITIONAL SHARING

Section 12.4.16 of the GCLCA provides that Gwich’in have the right to “trade among themselves and with other aboriginal peoples, for personal consumption, edible products of wildlife harvested by them.”  The GRRB has authority to propose regulations to ensure that the traditional sharing among individuals and communities and the Gwich’in right to trade, is not done in a manner the Board considers “commercial.” 

Applicable sections of the GRRB Consultation Rules and Procedures policy are indicated in italics.

  1. Initial Consultation –
    GRRB has consultation meetings with RRCs to create proposed regulation defining traditional sharing (s. 6.2.1). 
  2. Comment Period – 
    GRRB circulates proposed regulation to Gwich’in through the RRCs, GTC and GSCI and also to the relevant government agencies, providing at least 120 days for commentary (s. 6.2.1).
  3. Consultation Summary and Public Hearing – 
    GRRB posts all comments received on its Public Registry within 30 days of the end of the commentary period. If the Board finds it necessary, a public hearing may be held on the distinction between commercial activities and traditional sharing in accordance with the Board’s Rules for Public Hearings (s. 6.2.2).
  4. Amended Regulation – 
    An amended regulation on traditional sharing based on input from Gwich’in, public and government will be available through the GRRB Public Registry for public commentary and circulated to the RRCs, GTC and GSCI at least 60 days before the GRRB makes a final decision on the proposed regulation and sends it to the responsible Minister for adoption (s. 6.2.2).

PUBLIC REGISTRY - ADVICE TO GOVERNMENTS - ALL OTHER

Section 12.8.32 of the GCLCA states that Government may consult the Board on any matter which will likely impact wildlife or wildlife habitat in the GSA and seek timely advice on draft legislation, land use policies, establishment of parks and cooperative management plans.

Applicable sections of the GRRB Consultation Rules and Procedures policy are indicated in italics.

  1. Provide Advice –
    GRRB will provide advice to government within 120 days of it being requested (s. 7.2.1). 
  2. Notice of Request – 
    Notice of the request for advice will be posted on the GRRB’s Public Registry within 30 days (s. 7.2.2).
  3. Consultation – 
    Consultation will follow the rules and procedures outlined in this document for the given topic (s. 7.2.3).
  4. Amended Timeline – 
    If request for advice is urgent, GRRB will provide advice to government within 30 days or less as required (s. 7.2.5).

PUBLIC REGISTRY - PUBLIC HEARINGS

The GCLCA (s.12.8.21) states that (a) “a public hearing may be held by the Board where the Board is satisfied that such a hearing is desirable” and (b) “a public hearing shall be held when the board intends to consider establishing a total allowable harvest and a Gwich’in Needs Level in respect of a species or population of wildlife which has not been subject to a total allowable harvest level within the previous two years.” 

The GRRB has developed public hearings guidelines to direct timelines for notices, format of the hearing and hearing documentation. These guidelines were approved at the February 2010 Board Meeting.