Assessing Yukon's current approach to regional land use planning : perspectives from the North Yukon planning process
Subject
Regional planning
Yukon
Qualitative research (Research methodology)
Interviews (Research methodology)
Case studies (Research methodology)
Yukon
Qualitative research (Research methodology)
Interviews (Research methodology)
Case studies (Research methodology)
Abstract
Regional land use planning in the Yukon has a long and unfortunate history of failed
efforts. Under Chapter 11 of the Yukon First Nations Umbrella Final Agreement, a new
process for planning has been in place since 1993. Through qualitative, interview-based
research, I explore possible factors that either hinder or facilitate successful planning. I
used the North Yukon regional land use planning effort as a case study example of the
first plan to be successfully approved in Yukon history. A number of challenges resulting
from poorly defined roles and responsibilities caused notable struggles and conflict
throughout the process, but fortunately, strong political support and micro and meso –
level organization, combined with a solid team of skilled and dedicated people, allowed
the process to ultimately succeed. Lessons learned and recommendations for future
regional planning initiatives are discussed.