The Northwest Territories just launched a groundbreaking initiative: "NWT: Our Land for the Future," a $375 million plan that places Indigenous leadership at the core of conservation, stewardship, and economic renewal. This isn’t the usual "jobs versus the environment" debate—it’s a bold example of how the two can thrive together.

Back in 2017, then-NWT Premier Bob McLeod voiced skepticism about conservation efforts, arguing that southerners wanted the North to be one big park, ignoring the need for economic development. Fast forward, and this new initiative—crafted by over 20 Indigenous governments (notably excluding the NWT government)—offers a vision where environmental stewardship and economic progress go hand in hand.

The Details 🧾

The Numbers: $375 million, including $300 million from Canada, $75 million from private donors, and a $90 million endowment for long-term benefits.

The Scope: Protects 30% of NWT land while creating hundreds of annual jobs in areas like cultural revitalization, sustainable tourism, and climate monitoring.

The Goal: Redefine economic opportunity through the lens of environmental care and community resilience.

Leadership Speaks Out 💬

Tłı̨chǫ Grand Chief Jackson Lafferty emphasized Indigenous sovereignty in shaping priorities:
“We’re setting our own priorities to serve as custodians of our land and waters for all time.”

Participating Nations 🗺️

• Acho Dene Koe First Nation
• Dehcho First Nations
• Délı̨nę Got’ı̨nę Government
• Deninu Kųę́ First Nation
• Fort Good Hope Dene and Métis
• Fort Resolution Métis Council
• Gwich’in Tribal Council
• Kátł’odeeche First Nation
• Ka’a’gee Tu First Nation
• Łútsël K’é Dene First Nation
• Nahɂą Dehé Dene Band
• North Slave Métis Alliance
• Northwest Territory Métis Nation
• Pehdzeh Ki First Nation
• Sambaa K’e First Nation
• Smith’s Landing First Nation
• Tłı̨chǫ Government
• Tthets’éhk’edélî First Nation
• Tulita Dene and Métis
• West Point First Nation
• Yellowknives Dene First Nation

Why This Matters 🌱

This initiative demonstrates that conservation and economic development aren’t at odds—they’re two sides of the same coin. It’s not just about preserving nature but building a sustainable future where communities and the environment thrive together.

With Indigenous leadership lighting the way, "NWT: Our Land for the Future" sets a powerful example of what true stewardship and vision can achieve. 🌱

Sources 📚

Williams, Ollie. "NWT Indigenous groups signed a $375M deal. What does it mean?" Cabin Radio, November 14, 2024.

Passafiume, Alessia. "Indigenous groups, government, and industry launch $375M for conservation in NWT." The Albertan, November 14, 2024.

O'Connor, James. "A $375M generational plan for Indigenous-led conservation, stewardship, and economic development across the NWT." CKLB Radio, November 15, 2024.

Edited by Chris Harris

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.