As part of the Protected and Conserved Areas Network (PCAN) program, we have developed several important steps to ensure effective conservation and sustainable management of our natural landscapes. Each step in this process contributes to preserving diverse ecosystems, supporting biodiversity and aligning with our commitment to protect 12 per cent of the provincial landscape.
The Government of Saskatchewan has the sole authority to determine whether candidate areas will be recognized or designated and how they will contribute to PCAN.
Step 1: Decide whether to proceed with proposal
Pre-submission Meeting: Before submitting the proposal, groups and partners can meet with Ministry of Environment officials to discuss the projects' eligibility and address questions.
Initial Internal Government of Saskatchewan Review: Each member of the Protected and Conserved Areas Working Group reviews the proposal from the perspective of their ministry (e.g. resource assessments).
Revised Draft of Proposal: The group will review the proposal and provide a response to approve for continued review, request changes or reject the proposal.
Step 2: Collaborate to refine PCA proposal
Collaboration with Aboriginal and Treaty Rightsholders and Stakeholders: Projects will undergo the review through Habitat Advisory Committee, community meetings and industry events.
Final Review of Revised Proposal: Following the feedback, the Ministry of Environment will share the revised (if any changes were made) proposals with all internal and external stakeholder and Treaty Rightsholder groups before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Develop Management Plan
Collaborative Development of Management Plan: If appropriate, a management plan for the proposed area may be collaboratively developed. Management plans are submitted to the Minister of Environment for approval.
Step 4: Finalize Protection
Finalize Protection: Protection status is finalized through Cabinet approval, agreements or ministerial proclamation, depending on the regulatory status of the selected land.
Ongoing implementation of Management Plan.
All proposals undergo PCAN's thorough internal review process, which may result in adjustments to the proposed boundaries based on the areas of high mineral potential or other findings identified during the evaluation. Some proposals that have significant concerns or do not meet the program's criteria may be rejected with an option for revision and resubmission.