Goals
The primary goal of ecosystem based planning is to ensure the integrity of local ecosystems. Secondary goals are: protecting cultural activities; maintaining and building healthy and unified communities; and developing diverse, community based economies.
An Ecosystem Based Plan (EBP) is a
community-driven land use plan designed from the needs, thoughts, opinions, and inspiration of the entire community. We strive to create an all-inclusive plan to guide sustainable development in the Matanuska Valley that considers future generations. EBP development uses a continuous cycle of large and small public meetings, data collection and analysis, including fieldwork, and cultural interviews with elders and community members. The EBP uses
GIS mapping to generate interpretive maps that show the ecological character (how the ecosystems function), ecological condition (any impacts of industrial activity on ecosystem functioning), and culturally significant areas in the Matanuska Valley. The EBP team shares these maps in community meetings, receiving comments and suggestions on how to further refine and improve the maps. These maps are then used to identify and implement economic development projects that respect the local ecology and culture.
The EBP fosters the development of stable, diversified, local economic activities that reduce dependency on public funds and social services. Ecosystem based planning is a simple yet revolutionary model that can be replicated by other communities. We believe that sharing our knowledge will empower and inspire other communities and tribes to develop their own ecosystem based planned economies.
Appreciative Inquiry...
