Implementation of MAS in Canada's Forests: Institutional and Political Challenges

Marker-assisted selection is a diagnostic tool that offers an alternative approach in seedling selection in Canada. The main objectives of this study are to compare institutional and political environments of the main timber producing provinces in Canada, and to define the context of successful implementation. A qualitative research approach allowed us to build a general portrait of these environments.

A literature review helped us to identify and document the main guidelines of sustainable forest management which may ensure favourable implementation of MAS. A typology of policy instruments that could potentially overlap with the implementation of MAS was carried out and we identified the probable constraints. Next, a diagram of the policy community related to the implementation of MAS in response to government guidelines previously identified was built. Lastly, a qualitative analysis of surveys conducted with key stakeholder groups of the policy community (government, forest industry, and independent Forest Stewardship Council auditors) allowed for a better understanding of the perceptions of decision-makers towards the use of MAS as a forest management tool in Canada.

In consideration of the current institutional and political environments, and the perceptions of policy decision-makers, we have identified a number of challenges that may impede the future use of MAS in Canada. An educational strategic approach is hence proposed to increase the potential implementation of MAS in Québec, New Brunswick, and British Columbia.