The Coastal Stewardship Network, a program of Coastal First Nations – Great Bear Initiative, provides programming and support to Coastal Guardian Watchmen, and the stewardship offices of the nine-member alliance of First Nations along BC’s North and Central Coast and Haida Gwaii.

First Nations’ stewardship offices and Coastal Guardian Watchmen have the authority and responsibility under traditional and contemporary Indigenous laws to protect these lands and waters, and to maintain the region’s rich ecological and cultural diversity for future generations.

The Great Bear Rainforest is named for the multitude of grizzlies, black bears and rare white Spirit bears found in our Traditional Territories. They play a significant role in our rainforest ecosystems, culture and economies.

Coastal First Nations have taken bold steps to protect bears. In September 2013, nine Nations announced a ban on commercial trophy hunting. Biologists, economists and thousands of British Columbians agreed.

The Coastal Stewardship Network works directly with coastal communities to provide programming and support to Coastal Guardian Watchmen.

Coastal Guardian Watchmen play a critical role in all aspects of stewardship for Coastal First Nations – ensuring resources are sustainably managed, that rules and regulations are followed and that land and marine use agreements are implemented effectively.

In 2009, Coastal First Nations developed a Regional Monitoring System (RMS) that ensures a standardized approach to data collection for Nations monitoring coastal regions.

The RMS encourages collaboration between Nations and provides data for decision-making, while increasing Coastal Guardian Watchmen capacity and encouraging further engagement with resource users through compliance monitoring, education and outreach.

Taking care of our coastal lands and waters is a tradition passed down from generation to generation – from Elder to student, and from early ancestors to those living today.

Coastal stewardship staff are committed to improving and updating their skills and experience, which is why training and professional development are often a significant focus for their annual work plans.

We support Coastal Guardian Watchmen and the stewardship offices of Coastal First Nations by Facilitating quarterly meetings, Organizing Annual Gatherings, Coordinating Learning Exchanges and Developing communications and outreach tools.

If you have any questions about our stewardship work, please contact Coastal Stewardship Network.