Title | The community of Fort McKay traditional uses of the renewable resources on the proposed Suncor Inc. Steepbank Mine local study area |
Publication Type | Report |
Year of Publication | 1996 |
Publication Language | en |
Keywords | Steepbank Mine Site, traditional land use, traditional wildlife resource use |
Abstract | This document describes the traditional use of lands and resources in the area. It is intended to enhance the overall understanding of such use, and to provide a basis for further discussion and implementation of mutually acceptable future resource planning and use. The main objectives of this study were to determine the extent of traditional renewable resource use activities within the area identified as the Suncor Local Study Area; to determine the extent to which these activities are still carried out on the area; to identify the significance of such use to the members of the community of Fort McKay; to initiate discussion regarding acceptable and mutually satisfactory resource use; and to make recommendations relative to traditional and non-traditional use of the water, land and resources. The area in which the proposed Suncor Inc. Steepbank Mine Local Study Area is located has a long history of traditional land use. The proposed mine site lies within the Boreal forest eco-region. Commercial interests and activities exploiting both renewable and non-renewable resources have resulted in increasing pressure on the land and its resources. The region's resources play and important role in the lives of the people from the Fort McKay community, as well as those closer to Fort McMurray. They hunt, trap, and fish; they use the berries, herbs and other plants. These resource uses are a significant factor in the daily lives of community residents, and in their economic and physical health, and spiritual well being. Significant also, however, is the economic necessity for employment and business opportunity. The people of Fort McKay are becoming increasingly dependent on the resource-harvesting corporations, as the activities of those organizations continue to negatively impact traditional lifestyles. The people of the community are, therefore, seeking an appropriate balance between traditional and current lifestyles. Each of these living modes has value, validity, and benefit. This report documents the traditional uses of the proposed Steepbank Mine site, and makes recommendations to support continued, sustained, and viable choices for the area's resources and its inhabitants. |
Notes | First Nation consulting firm commissioned by Suncor Inc. Oil Sands Group |
Topics | Traditional land use study |
Locational Keywords | Fort McKay, Alberta |
Active Link | |
Group | CEMA |
Citation Key | 24806 |