Memo to the Community of Fort Chipewyan

Dear Community Members,

We would like to share the latest updates regarding the Big Dock file, which continues to be a top priority for our team. We appreciate your continued patience and support as we work together to improve this vital infrastructure for Fort Chipewyan.

Here are the key updates:

1. Funding Secured
   We are pleased to inform you that we have received funding from Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) for the construction of a temporary dock to support the community’s transportation needs. We also obtained funding to do a technical review of the Phase 1 environmental site assessments conducted on TC’s behalf.

 

2. Contractor Engagement
   We are currently finalizing contracts with the selected contractor who will oversee the construction of the temporary dock.

 

3. Dock Ownership
   The question ownership of the temporary dock has come up in our conversations with TC, we are still clarifying this for liability purposes and to protect the Nations.

 

4. Temporary Dock Location
   Based on feasibility assessment, conversations with the municipality, our respective Leaderships and community members, the location of the temporary dock has been determined. Please refer to the attached map for the exact site.

 

5. Alternative Shipping Routes
   With the seasonal closure of the winter road, we are actively exploring alternative shipping routes to ensure that materials for the construction of the temporary dock arrive in a timely manner.

 

6. Estimated Completion
   Construction of the temporary dock is anticipated to be completed by end of July 2025, logistics permitting.

 

7. Emergency Preparedness
   In light of the upcoming fire season, our teams are also working closely to update and coordinate emergency evacuation plans to ensure community safety.

 

8. Contaminated Site Cleanup
   We continue to collaborate with Transport Canada (TC) to address and clean up the contaminated site near the Big Dock area. Assuming all goes according to plan we are hoping clean up would happen during the summer of 2026.

We are committed to keeping the community informed and involved throughout the progress of this project. Should you have any questions or require more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

In partnership,

Sebastien Fekete
Director, MCFN GIR
sebastien.fekete@mcfngir.ca

Jay Telegdi
Senior Manager Intergovernmental Affairs, ACFN
jay.telegdi@acfn.com

Carmen Wells
Lands and Regulatory Director, FCMN
carmen.wells@fortchipmetis.ca