Indigenous-led conservation planning: The approach of Xeni Gwet’in First Nation Government

Conservation planning provides a structured, step-by-step process for making informed decisions by identifying, developing, and implementing actions to achieve specific goals and objectives. To date, there are limited examples within the academic literature that describe Indigenous-led conservation planning processes. Our research documents an Indigenous-led conservation planning initiative led by Xeni Gwet’in First Nation Government as they worked to design a wildlife management strategy for their Caretaker Area, located in British Columbia, Canada. Using a case-based approach, we describe the Xeni Gwet’in wildlife management strategy planning process— which included scoping, honoring the past, data inventory and review, action prioritization, and engagement— and associated strengths and challenges. Beyond the Xeni Gwet’in context, we distill adaptive planning tools and lessons learned for others— including Indigenous Nations and communities interested in conservation planning, and non-Indigenous governments and collaborators seeking to support Indigenous approaches to conservation, stewardship, and wildlife governance.