"For generations, the link between Canada’s well-being and its forest has generated concern and interest. Out of this interest and concern, the national forest strategies were developed, beginning in the 1980s. These forest strategies have evolved over time accompanied by new challenges and attitudes and increased knowledge, understanding and participation. Each forest strategy has led to a more concise definition of the sustainable forest, stimulated wider networking and attracted the participation of more members of the forest community. These strategies are:

• A Forest Sector Strategy for Canada: Discussion Paper, 1981–1987
• A National Forest Sector Strategy for Canada (1987–1992)
• National Forest Strategy (1992–1998) – Sustainable Forests: A Canadian Commitment
• National Forest Strategy (1998–2003) – Sustainable Forests: A Canadian Commitment"

(Quoted from the National Forest Strategy 2003-2008 document)

The current National Forest Strategy (2003-2008) consists of eight strategic themes. Theme Three is entitled "Rights and Participation of Aboriginal Peoples". The other seven themes are: Ecosystem Based Management; Sustainable Forest Communities; Forest Products Benefits; Knowledge and Innovation for Competitiveness and Sustainability; The Urban Forest and Public Engagement in Sustainability; Private Woodlots' Contribution to Sustainability; and Reporting and Accountability.  See the website of the NFS Coalition for more information about the Strategy as a whole or about the other themes.

The Forest Home website developed out of discussions that the National Aboriginal Forestry Association has facilitated as the designated Champion of Theme 3. The implementation team for Theme 3 ("Team 3") is a diverse mix of Aboriginal, provincial, federal, private, and non-governmental parties. In addition to the Forest Home project, Team 3 has embarked on a number of other joint projects that advance the action items of Theme 3. Links to materials on these other projects are provided below.

At the 2005 Annual Meeting of the NFS Coalition, Dr. Jeremy Raynor presented an assessment of the NFS of Canada in the context of what is happening with other countries' National Forest Programmes designed to meet international commitments.

In 2006, the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers approved a plan for the development of Canada's next forest strategy, 2008 and beyond, that will replace the current National Forest Strategy, which ends in May 2008. "The new strategy will build on existing initiatives, socioeconomic changes and impacts, as well as demonstrate ongoing leadership by CCFM and meeting Canada's international responsibilities."

The CCFM has prepared a discussion paper that, "describes the overal process to develop the next forest strategy including proposed vision, prinicples, goals and objectives for sustainable forest management in Canada, as well as potential issues to be addressed by the strategy."

The public is encouraged to provide input and advice to the CCFM before

July 20th, 2007.

Comments can be sent to the following address: 2008strategy@ccfm.org