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OECM Proposal Form

Version : June 2025

INTRODUCTION

Before you begin, we recommend that you review the guidelines for the recognition of other effective conservation measures (OECMs) in continental areas in Quebec. This will help you better understand the concept, the terms of interest used, the recognition criteria, the specific features of Quebec, and the implications of having your site recognized as an OECM. This review will help you assess whether your site is compatible with OECM recognition.

The structure of the form reflects the four recognition criteria (A - B - C - D), as well as their sub-criteria. Each question aims to assess the extent to which your site meets these criteria. The form is divided into the following sections:
GENERAL INFORMATION • Your contact details • The proposed site CRITERION A: Area is not currently recognized as a protected area
• Other than a Protected Area CRITERION B: Area is governed and managed
• Geographically defined area • Governed and managed CRITERION C: Achieves sustained and effective contribution to in situ conservation of biodiversity
• Positive outcomes • Sustained long-term • In-situ conservation of biodiversity CRITERION D: Associated ecosystem functions and services and cultural, spiritual, socio-economic and other locally relevant values
• Ecosystem functions and services • Cultural, spiritual, socio-economic, and other locally relevant values

A few clarifications:

• Is your site present in the Répertoire des sites de conservation volontaire du Québec?
If your site is already listed in the Répertoire des sites de conservation volontaire du Québec, you do not need to complete this form. The RMN already has information about your site and is working hard to have it recognized. Do not hesitate to contact them if you have any questions about the process or your application.
• Are you a First Nations community or organization in Quebec?
We are working with the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Sustainable Development Institute (FNQLDI) to provide tailored support to First Nations. Their role is to assist you, as needed, throughout the process, whether in considering the recognition of an OECM, completing the online form, or any other subsequent steps. If you wish, you can send your request to the following email address: [email protected].
• Recognition process
Throughout the form, we ask you to provide supporting documentation to support the information presented. This supporting documentation is essential for the evaluation of your application. For example, if you indicate that your site is home to endangered species, you will need to provide supporting documentation to this effect. However, these documents are not required to complete and submit the form. If any documents are missing after your submission, we will contact you to obtain them. Your submission doesn't have to be perfect. Once the form is submitted, Nature Québec will contact you to complete the file, if necessary. However, the more complete your application is at the time of submission, the faster the process will be for you.
Once complete, it will then be forwarded by Nature Québec to the Ministère de l'Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs (MELCCFP) for review. The decision to recognize (or not) your site as an OECM remains the prerogative of the Government of Quebec.

Questions?

If you have any questions about OECMs or need assistance completing this form, please feel free to contact us at [email protected]. We will be happy to assist you with your request.
If needed, additional resources are available on the Nature Québec website, including a printable version (PDF) of this form.