Hydro board members visit First Nation communities to discuss damage from past developments

Last week, members of the Manitoba Hydro board journeyed to Misipawistik Cree Nation and Chemawawin Cree Nation to discuss the aftermath of past hydroelectric development. The aim was to gain insight into the damages inflicted by the Grand Rapids Generating Station and to forge stronger connections with communities affected by such projects.

The two-day visit entailed cultural site visits, discussions with local leaders and residents, and a tour of the generating station and a fish hatchery. The news release from Manitoba Hydro emphasized that this visit was part of the company's ongoing engagement with Indigenous communities impacted by hydroelectric development.

In 2024, the Manitoba Hydro board had already visited Gillam and met with First Nations involved in the Keeyask Generating Station. The recent trip to Misipawistik and Chemawawin came shortly after the Federal Court ordered Ottawa to pay the Opaskwayak Cree Nation $27 million for damages resulting from the 1960s construction of the Grand Rapids hydro dam.

Manitoba Hydro's board chairman, Jamie Wilson, highlighted the importance of face-to-face meetings with impacted communities. He noted that while reports and briefings are valuable, nothing replaces the direct experience of visiting affected areas and hearing firsthand accounts of the historical damage caused by the Grand Rapids hydro dam.

Chief Clarence Easter of Chemawawin Cree Nation expressed gratitude for the board's visit, emphasizing the significance of board members engaging in personal conversations with community members. Similarly, Chief Heidi Cook of Misipawistik Cree Nation acknowledged the drastic changes brought about by the hydro dam's presence in the 1960s but expressed optimism for a future built on mutual respect and understanding. The improved relationship is seen as starting with personal visits like these, according to both chiefs.