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 The use of our Traditional Knowledge was instrumental in the selection of a 200-megawatt low-head design for the Wuskwatim generation project, rather than a high-head design, which would have generated 350 megawatts and far greater profits, but also far more flooding and environmental damage.
The low-head design chosen for Wuskwatim is creating the least amount of flooding of any hydroelectric project ever developed in northern Manitoba. The flooding is just a small fraction of what was caused by the CRD and much less than the earlier high-head proposal that we rejected. The CRD flooded 760 square kilometres, the high-head proposal would have flooded 140 square kilometres and Wuskwatim will flood only one half of a square kilometre – smaller than an average-size golf course.
The location of the construction camp and access road to the site were also selected using the Traditional Knowledge of our Elders and resource users. We have also used our Traditional Knowledge in the development of an access management plan to protect our resources and sacred places around the Wuskwatim dam.
Promoting our Culture
 We offer onsite cross-cultural awareness workshops and counselling for workers on the project, organized by a full-time coordinator and support staff. Click to download a copy of the Onsite Counseling Sevices brochure.
Feasts, sweat lodge ceremonies, water ceremonies and other ceremonies have been undertaken before construction of both the road and the dam. When remains or cultural material are found during construction, work stops to conduct proper ceremonies.
Through active and meaningful consultation, we have been able to negotiate a number of benefits for NCN Members and other Aboriginal residents of northern Manitoba, now and for future generations.
Read More About the Project
A Change From the Past
A Cooperative Approach
Extensive Community Consultation
Regulatory Processes
Use of Traditional Knowledge
Benefits of the Project
Bird's Eye View of Artist's Concept of Wuskwatim Generating Station
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