RLA Member Profile

Ontario Aboriginal Lands Association (OALA)

O rganization of committed First Nations in Ontario.
A ctively network towards the enhancement of professional development and technical expertise in:
L ands Management issues;
A chieve a recognized role within the various levels of government and provincial territorial organizations.

In 1995 a small group of Ontario First Nation Lands Managers formed an association to address unique land management issues and related common interests while providing a forum to strategize on problems and concerns. OALA was formed to support and assist fellow Lands Managers when needed.

This group was the first of its kind in all of Canada.

We can proudly say the OALA was the birth of Regional Lands Association organizations Nationwide !

One of the original goals was to establish a National Lands Management Association consisting of Lands Managers across Canada. This was accomplished in 2000 at a National Gathering in Toronto with the birth of the National Aboriginal Lands Managers Association.

ESTABLISHMENT: The Ontario Aboriginal Lands Association will continue to be a firm base which will include the continuing development of the organizational structure and mandate of the professional association.

NETWORKING: OALA will be a means to Lands Managers in Ontario for the professional exchange of information and support.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: OALA will be a means for Lands Managers in Ontario for the professional development for First Nation Lands Management and Administration

INPUT/OUPUT: OALA will provide an opportunity to assist various levels of government and provincial territorial organizations as to the existing and future management of First Nation lands.

OALA currently provides networking, peer support and training opportunities for its' 28 affiliated First Nation Communities. With membership expanding hopefully to all 133 First Nations in Ontario, it is our hope to create at least 4-6 chapters or districts.

OALA is currently focused on:

• Targeted recruitment of non-member First Nations


• Development and submission of funding proposals to the Department of Aboriginal Affairs and the National Aboriginal Lands Managers Association for further training on management skills, taxation by-laws, lands management and property training, time and stress management, and negotiation skills

For additional information about OALA, please contact:

Jennifer Copegog
Ontario Aboriginal Lands Association
Beausoleil First Nation
Cedar Point P.O.
Christian Island, ON., L0K 1C0
Phone (705) 247-2051
acopegog@chimnissing.ca

Julia Taylor, NALMA Project Manager
National Aboriginal Lands Managers Association
1024 Mississauga St. General Delivery
Curve Lake, ON K0L 1R0
Toll Free 1 (877) 234-9813
Fax (705) 657-7177
jtaylor@nalma.ca