The Conservation Authorities were formed with a core mission of demonstrating the wise use of natural resources. From this mandate, staff continue to modernize the management of the vacant land parcels by focusing commercial forest harvest activities on economically viable plantation forests (which reduces pressures on the natural forest); updating target Conservation Areas to provide a better public experience; and inventorying natural areas to further protect a multitude of species. Following a multi-use strategy, passive recreational uses (including hiking, nature watching, non-motorized boating, and hunting) are encouraged – in balance with the ecosystems that sustain us.