The Natural Resources Strategy was announced in May 2007 as a three year process. DNR's current policies for forests, minerals and parks have been in place since the 1980s and are in need of renewal; the biodiversity strategy will be the first for the province. The decision to re-evaluate DNR's policies on forests minerals, and parks, and to establish a policy on biodiversity is in keeping with the Province's focus on sustainable prosperity and competitiveness, and the shift to a green economy. The Nova Scotia Government's Environmental Goals and Sustainable Prosperity Act commits DNR to develop a new Natural Resources Strategy by end of 2010.
The Strategy is being developed in three phases.
Phase 1 - Citizen engagement - led by Voluntary Planning - January 2008 to April 2009
Phase 2 - Technical expertise/Stakeholder engagement - May 2009 to March 2010
Phase 3 - Strategy Development - By end of 2010
The Natural Resources strategy is expected to be completed by end of 2010.