Frequently Asked Questions
Where is PNCIMA?PNCIMA stretches from Canada’s northern border with Alaska south to Bute Inlet on the mainland, across to Campbell River on the east side of Vancouver Island and the Brooks Peninsula on the west side of Vancouver Island. Its western boundary is the base of the shelf slope. PNCIMA boundaries were determined based on oceanographic processes, watershed boundaries that influence the marine area, and the northern political boundary with the USA.
What is the ultimate goal of the PNCIMA planning process?
Under the Oceans Act, the goal of the PNCIMA planning process is to ensure sustainable human use and conserve ecological diversity of the marine area. This will be achieved by developing plans that identify integrated and adaptive management strategies and actions.
What will success look like?
A successful process and plan will include an agreed vision, definition of ecosystem-based management, ecological, socio-economic, and cultural objectives, operational objectives and performance indicators, and spatial use and conservation zoning recommendations.
Will PNCIMA influence decision-making?
A sound management plan that balances interests, is grounded by information, analysis and effective consultation and is broadly supported amongst affected parties is likely to bear influence with decision-makers. PNCIMA will not establish a new regulatory framework or fetter any existing legal authorities, but recommendations that arise from the PNCIMA planning process can then be considered by decision makers as they carry out their jurisdictional responsibilities.
How will the PNCIMA process fit into existing regulatory processes such as the Environmental Assessment process?
The PNCIMA process will not supersede existing legislation or the ability of the federal or provincial governments to carry out their regulatory activities. However, in implementing the plan, government departments and agencies can use their regulatory authorities and powers to fulfill or contribute to the objectives and management strategies contained in the plan.
Why do we need an integrated management process if existing mechanisms are already in place to resolve a variety of management issues?
While a variety of existing mechanisms representing a multitude of interests do exist within the PNCIMA region, the current approach creates uncertainty, conflict and environmental risks. The PNCIMA process will provide a mechanism for better integration and coordination of new and existing processes in the PNCIMA region. The process will help create greater certainty and stability by seeking direction from multiple interests to develop a long-term vision and objectives.
How will the PNCIMA plan be implemented?
Implementation of the completed PNCIMA plan will occur through the collective effort of everyone involved with the plan. The plan will identify different mechanisms for implementation, including responsible authorities and timelines. Under the Oceans Act, implementation of those aspects of integrated management plans that require a regulatory approach are effected by the responsible federal department or agency. Equally as important to the regulatory mechanisms available as tools for implementation is the role of First Nations, provincial and regional and municipal governments, along with stakeholders and other interested parties. Coordination and collaboration is the key to successful implementation.