The Bi-Lateral Task Force (BTF) was created in 1994 under the Renewable Resources and Environmental Management Protocol Agreement between the Government of Saskatchewan, represented by the Minister of Environment and Resource Management, and the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN), represented by the Vice Chief charged with the responsibility for lands and resource issues. The BTF meets at least two per year with both the Minister and the Vice Chief Co-Chairing the sessions that include First Nation elected leadership and senior representatives from the FSIN and Saskatchewan Environment.

The objective of the BTF was to develop a framework of co-management of renewable resources in Saskatchewan. The parties agreed to discuss a range of specific issues with a view of reaching a common understanding and vision on each.

The principles of the partnership are based on:

• Stewardship for the environment involving integrated management processes for sustainable resources;
• An ethical approach based on respect, trust, openness, sharing and fairness;
• Accommodation of differences and values, interests and perspectives and support for diversity; and
• A productive, results oriented relationship based on a shared purpose.

The original intent of the BTF was also to create and manage the Resource Management System/Resource Management Personnel Program and to expand on its success to enhance capacity.

The range of issues discussed under the BTF have included: alternative measures to wildlife charges; management and control of wildlife lands; mineral leasing; chronic wasting disease; traditional land use concerns; and consultation and accommodation requirements of the Provincial Government.