The GNWT considers economic, cultural, and environmental issues when developing and approving land use plans. Criteria are the standards by which the GNWT will assess a land use plan. The GNWT has nine criteria it applies to review and approve new land use plans, amendments, and revisions. The criteria are purposefully general since every planning process is different and requires flexibility.

The criteria were developed through a combination of:

• the GNWT’s participation in the Sahtù and Gwich’in planning processes
• the Gwich’in five-year review process
• a jurisdictional analysis
• applying accepted principles of planning practice

The GNWT's nine criteria for approving land use plans

1. Mandate

Is the plan scoped within the parameters of the applicable comprehensive land claim agreement, legislation, and/or process terms of reference under which the process was established?

2. Process

Did plan development follow comprehensive and appropriate methods?

3. Clarity, Readability,and Accuracy

Is the plan clear? Is it practical? Is it free of errors?

4. Flexibility

Is the plan flexible enough to adapt to unique circumstances not contemplated during plan development?

5. Value-added

Does the plan add value to and fulfill an appropriate role in the regulatory system?

6. Regulatory and Legislative Fit

How well does the plan fit with existing legislation, policy, and regulatory processes?

7. Ease of Implementation

Can the plan be implemented as written?

8. Transboundary Consistency and Coordination

Is the plan consistent with or complimentary to other plans in the Mackenzie Valley? NWT? Other jurisdictions? Communities?

9. GNWT Interests

How well does the plan align with the interests and priorities of the GNWT?