This paper considers the development and implementation of partnerships through the Canadian Model Forest (MF) program. A typology of partnerships is used to consider those that have evolved through the program and the contribution that the MF Network is making to highlight non-traditional approaches to public involvement in forest management. The governing structure of MFs and ensuing partnerships are explored and a discussion of their strengths and challenges - in the context of their role as collaborative partnerships - is provided. New partnerships that have formed - either at the initiation of an MF, or to which they play a central role - are also outlined. The final discussion identifies a collaborative partnership arrangement between individual MFs and the Canadian Forest Service and a contributory relationship between MFs and the broader forest policy community. It is also revealed that the MFs have attracted a range of forest interests to their discussions and research through promoting high levels of involvement in interactive decision making. However, public and ENGO involvement is still minimal and the adoption of MF partnership approaches to public involvement within the broader forest policy community is not clear.

Model forest, Adaptatation, Canada