Heritage planning is the process of identifying what is significant about a historic place, understanding why it matters and to whom, and establishing guidelines to protect its heritage values. A heritage management plan guides this process by showing how a site’s key features can be conserved while still allowing for current and future use. Interpretation planning helps communities share the stories and meaning of historic places, while conservation planning focuses on maintaining and protecting their physical features.
Every historic place is unique; heritage planning is tailored to the specific community or place. Planning considers the heritage values of a site, its character-defining elements, the needs and perspectives of owners, residents, and users, and its past and present uses. Heritage planning combines a deep understanding of a place with careful actions that maintain its heritage value.
Heritage planning helps communities care for their past while planning for their future. When done effectively, heritage planning can help manage change while supporting cultural identity, creating economic benefits, such as tourism and skilled jobs, and strengthened relationships with Yukon First Nation communities, promote environmental sustainability and enhances Yukoner’s sense of place.
The Ch'ëdähdëk / Forty Mile, Fort Cudahy and Fort Constantine Historic Site (Forty Mile) Conservation Plan is currently underway. For more information and to learn about the Forty Mile conservation plan and other historic sites throughout the Yukon, visit the Heritage Plans page.