NWT RESEARCH DATABASE

Regions: Gwich'in Settlement Area

Tags: environmental impact, knowledge transfer, traditional knowledge, cumulative effects, industrial development, community consultation, public participation, environment, socio-cultural, Gwich'in, Mackenzie Gas Project, social impact, environmental protection plan

Objective(s): Imperial Oil Ventures Ltd., Aboriginal Pipeline Group, ConocoPhillips Canada (North) Limited, Shell Canada Limited, and ExxonMobil Canada Properties have conducted a number of baseline studies beginning in 2001. Local knowledge and technical/scientific research, in combination with a synthesis of existing technical information, is being used to develop a suitable knowledge base for planning, assessment of impacts and development of environmental protection plans. The key components will include collecting existing knowledge, gathering new knowledge and producing a report that will provide for the specific information needs of the Mackenzie Gas Project. The Gwich'in Social and Cultural Institute will conduct the study. The study will proceed under the guidance of a Gwich'in Traditional Knowledge Working Group.

Project Description: This project is a continuation of traditional knowledge (TK) studies in the Gwich'in Settlement Area (GSA), which were initiated in 2002 as part of the baseline studies and assessment for the Mackenzie Gas Project. The Gwich'in Social and Cultural Institute (GSCI) will conduct the study in the GSA as a subcontractor to the Mackenzie Project Environment Group. The study will proceed under the guidance of a Gwich'in Traditional Knowledge Working Group (Working Group) which will include representation from Renewable Resource Councils, Elders Councils and Band Councils from each community, and one member from each of Gwich'in Tribal Council, GSCI, Mackenzie Gas Project, and Mackenzie Project Environment Group. The Working Group will provide overall guidance for the study (develop a framework, determine content, establish a schedule, etc.). The study will involve gathering and reviewing documented and new knowledge related to climate, soil, water, vegetation, wildlife, birds, fish, historical/cultural/spiritual sites, human health, cumulative effects, and other relevant social, cultural and environmental concerns. Secondary sources will be used to identify TK information. A data gap assessment will be conducted after relevant secondary source information has been identified. If necessary, interviews with holders of TK (identified by the Working Group) will be conducted to fill data gaps. Confidentiality of all interviewees will be maintained and informed consent will be obtained. All data collected will be stored in the GSCI and the Calgary offices of MPEG and Imperial Oil Resources. All knowledge gathered will be owned by the Gwich'in. Non-technical summaries and regular reporting will be provided to the community organizations.