FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron (File photo/northeastNOW)

By Cam Lee

Environmental concerns

FSIN concerned about irrigation project’s environmental impact on Cumberland House Cree Nation

Aug 16, 2024 | 4:19 PM

The Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN) is expressing concerns about the potential effects of a farm irrigation project.

The FSIN has announced their support for the Cumberland House Cree Nation in their efforts to protect their lands and waters in relation to the project’s potential to affect the ecosystem of the Saskatchewan River Delta.

In a news release, the FSIN said the $4 billion farm irrigation project announced four years ago is projected to irrigate 202,000 hectares of land in southwest and west-central Saskatchewan. The project would use water from Lake Diefenbaker. The FSIN says while the irrigation project would double the province’s irrigable land and boost agricultural production, it poses “significant risks to the already fragile delta ecosystem.”

The organization is concerned about diverting more water from the Saskatchewan River Delta, especially during dry years. The delta spans nearly 10,000 kilometres across northeast Saskatchewan into western Manitoba.

“As the largest freshwater delta in North America, this vital ecosystem supports a diverse range of wildlife, including moose, bear, and migratory birds,” FSIN Chief Bobby Cameron said in the release. “The health of the delta has been compromised by fluctuating water levels, primarily due to the construction of hydroelectric dams and ongoing development in (southern Saskatchewan).”

ARSON

Two charged with setting fires in northern Sask.

Jun 06, 2025

Critical assistance

Premier Moe responds to criticism for not calling in federal, military help to handle wildfires

Jun 06, 2025

Red Cross wildfire fundraiser

Pattison Media stations to join 'Saskatchewan Day of Caring' June 12

Jun 06, 2025

Cameron said Cumberland House Cree Nation has Treaty and Inherent Rights to the use of their traditional lands and waters that take priority over any other uses.

“The proposed project will alter the ecosystem permanently. We stand with Chief Rene Chaboyer and the Cumberland House Cree Nation in their efforts to protect the delta for future generations as this will impact their traditional hunting grounds, and access to waterways will be lost, threatening both the environment and way of life forever,” Cameron added.

The FSIN said in the release they pledge to work collaboratively with Cumberland House Cree Nation and other stakeholders to ensure any development in the region respects the environment and rights of First Nations communities.

–

Cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @northeastNOW_SK