NWT RESEARCH DATABASE

Regions: Dehcho Region

Tags: petroleum industry, knowledge transfer, traditional knowledge, industrial development, community consultation, environment, First Nations

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 Mackenzie Project Environment Group will be subcontracting the Liidlii Kue First Nation to collect and document traditional knowledge for this project. The Liidlii Kue First Nation will determine issues to be studied, determine study area boundaries, recommend methods for community participation, identify people who have traditional knowledge, and review the maps and reports produced during the study.

Project Description: This project is a continuation of traditional knowledge (TK) studies in the Fort Simpson area, which were initiated in 2002 as part of the baseline studies and assessment for the Mackenzie Gas Project. In 2004, Nogha Geomatics was a subcontractor to the MGP and local researchers were hired to undertake study tasks. Since December 2004, project management in Fort Simpson has shifted to the Liidlii Kue First Nation, who 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 LKFN) 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 at the LKFN and the Calgary offices of MPEG and Imperial Oil Resources. Local researchers and companies will participate in the project. Non-technical summaries and regular reporting will be provided to the community organizations.