Building new relations : Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation, Manitoba Hydro, and the proposed Wuskwatim project

Abstract

A new relationship is being forged between Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation (NCN) (Nelson House) and Manitoba Hydro for the proposed Wuskwatim hydroelectric generating station that will be located within the Nelson House Resource Management Area. The purpose of this research was to inform the reader about the history of NCN and what role it played in the future development, to determine why NCN members developed from impacted people to potential partners in development and to examine their role in the proposed new hydro project. The history of hydroelectric development within the community was critically examined. The manner in which the new partnership was conceived, the motivation for this partnership, the problems it was supposed to address, and the goals it achieved were considered. The community perspective was outlined and the viewpoints of Manitoba Hydro were also considered. Recommendations for future research were made.