This document provides direction to manage fluid tailings volumes during and after mine operation in order to manage and decrease liability and environmental risk resulting from the accumulation of fluid tailings on the landscape. The Framework builds on, but does not replace, existing provincial legislation and policy on tailings management and reclamation. It will not replace existing management systems. However, it will fill a management gap by providing a framework in which to monitor and manage long-term fluid tailings accumulation and reclamation on the landscape in the Lower Athabasca Region. Requirements under the framework will be administered primarily through the Oil Sands Conservation Act and the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act.