Comprehensive Review of the Tłı̨chǫ Wenek’e Land Use Plan Now Complete
(Behchokǫ̀) - The Tłı̨chǫ have had an intimate relationship with the land since the beginning of time. On October 12, 2023, the 5th Tłı̨chǫ Assembly approved a series of recommended amendments to the Tłı̨chǫ Wenek’e Land Use Plan Law, which came into effect at midnight that same day. These amendments mean that the comprehensive Land Use Plan (LUP) review process is complete, ensuring that the goals and directives described in Wenek’e are up-to-date and accurately reflect the direction set by Tłı̨chǫ leaders, Elders, and community members in a changing environment.
The Tłı̨chǫ Wenek’e LUP enacted in 2013, is intended to protect the land for its inherent worth and ecological value and encourage present and future generations to experience and learn Tłı̨chǫ history, traditional place names, stories, and legends connected to the land.
Tłı̨chǫ Wenek’e uses maps, policies, and written information to assist in the management of approximately 39,000 km2 of Tłı̨chǫ lands to protect Tłı̨chǫ culture, heritage and traditional way of life. The Plan provides a guide for future development by outlining how Tłı̨chǫ land will be protected and how activities and development on Tłı̨chǫ lands should occur.
Over the past several years, the Tłı̨chǫ Government has been undertaking a comprehensive review of Wenek’e, consistent with policy 7.9. in the LUP. Focus areas for this review included the land use zones, directives, activities, Tłı̨chǫ Yatı usage, and goals.
The Department of Culture and Lands Protection (DCLP) looks forward to implementing Wenek’e over the coming years to the benefit of Tłı̨chǫ lands and the Tłı̨chǫ Nation.
“The completion of the Tłı̨chǫ Wenek’e Land Use Plan Review is a milestone achievement for our Government. The Land Use Plan is an important tool to assist in managing our lands and protecting our culture and way of life. As a living document, this plan ensures that the Tłı̨chǫ Government continues to advance the goals outlined in Iłè dǫ gha gǫıta, our Strategic Framework of Intentions.”
Tłı̨chǫ Grand Chief Jackson Lafferty
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