“Valuing Coastal Guardian Watchmen Programs: A Business Case” examines the net value of program costs and benefits from the perspective of the First Nations that have these programs. Program costs and benefits are discussed both qualitatively and quantitatively, with the overall value generated by Guardian Watchmen programs described as a return-on-investment ratio.
In 2016, Coastal First Nations Great Bear Initiatuve (CFN-GBI) member Nations participated in a study analyzing the benefits of Guardian Watchmen programs for communities—from improved community and cultural well-being, increased capacity, economic opportunities and enhanced Nation-to-Nation relationships. Although those values are difficult to quantify financially, an exhaustive final report from the study revealed, at the low end, a 10:1 annual return on investment for communities with Guardian programs. For some, the return was higher, at 20:1.
Prepared by EcoPlan International for Coastal First Nations, Great Bear Initiative (CFN-GBI) and Nature United.
https://www.indigenousguardianstoolkit.ca/sites/default/files/Community Resource_Guardians-valuationreport_v10_Final_TNC Canada.pdf