The highest priority for the GNWT has been preparing for the transfer of land, water and resource management functions from the federal government. The GNWT will take on its new responsibilities while continuing to deliver existing programs and services. An organized, strategic and consistent approach to land-management activities is critical to demonstrate leadership through this time of transition and into the future.

Organizational Design

The organizational design will support the GNWT in carrying out its new authorities and responsibilities. This organizational structure merges new and existing functions. As well, efforts have been made to transfer as many federal employees as possible and to recruit the necessary expertise to effectively manage public lands and resources.

Internal Governance

A governance structure for GNWT decision-making about land-related issues will facilitate coordination across GNWT departments that have a mandate for land management, to establish direction when required, to confirm priorities for GNWT land management, and to resolve any conflicts among GNWT agencies with regard to land-management issues.