What environmental projects are typically conducted on First Nation Lands?
The most common projects EnviroSearch performs on First Nation Lands are the environmental assessment and environmental audit. Environmental assessments not only address mitigative measures to be employed to minimize potential impacts to the flora and fauna within Reserves but also address:
- Public concerns with the proposed program through public consultation;
- Socio-economic issues such as work and business opportunities for Reserve residents in the short and long-term;
- Traditional and Cultural concerns by conducting traditional knowledge and traditional environmental knowledge consultations; and
- Cumulative effects.
Environmental Audits are performed on oil and gas properties at varying intervals after construction.
Why perform environmental assessments and audits on First Nation Lands?
Federal regulations (Canadian Environmental Assessment Act) require that an environmental assessment be conducted prior to the commencement of oil & gas related activities on First Nation Lands. Also, environmental assessments
typically provide a forum for the betterment of community relations (improving the performance of current projects and increasing the likelihood for future ones).
Indian Oil and Gas Canada required audits to be performed at pre-determined post-construction intervals to ensure that properties and facilities are well maintained.
How can EnviroSearch assist you with you planned activities on First Nation Lands?
- EnviroSearch maintains relationships with both the regulators responsible for environmental assessment review as well as the First Nations.
- EnviroSearch recognizes the unique needs of First Nations and can liaise between clients and Band representatives to provide solutions to complex problems using a well developed skill set and experienced personnel.
- EnviroSearch also has the ability to provide First Nations with catered training services enabling the use of their people for specific projects such as: land-use planning, environmental management, and environmental monitoring.
This we know: the earth does not belong to man, man belongs to the earth. All things are connected like the blood that unites us all. Man did not weave the web of life, he is merely a strand in it. Whatever he does to the web he does to himself.
– Chief Seattle, 1852