December, 2004
Introduction
This case focuses on Clayoquot Sound, a region of ocean inlets, beaches and temperate rainforest on the west coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.
Though there are seven communities in this region, five are First Nations and two are non-First Nations, this case will focus on three of these. The villages of Tofino and Ucluelet (non-First Nations) and the Ahousaht community are examined because of their relatively large population size. They also have different histories and needs with regard to planning their futures, and together encapsulate some of the broader issues that are important to Clayoquot Sound as a whole. The case is an introduction to some of the global trends influencing the economic, social, and political dimensions of Clayoquot Sound, with a focus on the community's efforts to regenerate and diversify its economy given recent decline in the fishing and forestry industries and the increase in tourism. This case functions as an overview of the communities as they stand in the present time.
On 5 May 2000, UNESCO accepted the nomination for Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Clayoquot Sound was officially named a Biosphere Reserve. The Biosphere Reserve designation ceremony itself was not without controversy, and is indicative of the heated debate over the management of this region that has originated from both within and outside the community in the last decade.
Next: Background
Communities