A major conservation effort in northern Manitoba is now moving into the public consultation phase—and it’s one that could have long-term impacts for communities across the North, including here in Thompson.

 

The Seal River Watershed Alliance, alongside the governments of Canada and Manitoba, has released a proposal to protect the Seal River Watershed—an area just northeast of Thompson that stretches over 50,000 square kilometres.

 

The plan would see the entire region designated as an Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area, led by four First Nations in the region: Sayisi Dene, Northlands Denesuline, Barren Lands and O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation.

 

The watershed is one of the last in the world that still flows freely into Hudson Bay, untouched by dams or major industrial development, and supports wildlife like caribou, polar bears and wolverines.

 

A joint management board made up of Indigenous leadership, Manitoba and Canada would oversee the area moving forward.

 

Manitobans are now being invited to share their feedback on the proposal before a final agreement is reached, with submissions open until June 2nd.