Resource Development
Opportunities
Under the Nisg̱a’a Final Agreement, the Nisg̱a’a Nation has substantial treaty rights throughout the 27,000-square-kilometre (approximate) Nass Area. The Nisg̱a’a Nation owns and has control over development on Nisg̱a’a Lands, which make up about eight percent of the total Nass Area. The Nisg̱a’a Nation also has comprehensive rights relating to consultation and environmental assessment over proposed developments in the rest of the Nass Area.
The Nass Area Strategy was developed to ensure that proposed resource developments in the Nass Area comply with all Nisg̱a’a Treaty rights. The Nisg̱a’a Nation evaluates proposals by assessing a project’s potential environmental, social, and cultural impacts; the proposed strategies to mitigate those impacts; and the potential economic benefit to the Nisg̱a’a Nation.
NLG does not rely on technical experts of proponents. Where necessary, NLG hires technical experts to provide advice. The costs of participating in environmental assessments (i.e., hiring technical experts and negotiating benefits agreements) are paid for by project proponents through capacity funding agreements. Canada and British Columbia also undertake environmental assessments of any project that may impact Nisg̱a’a Lands or interests and consult NLG in this process.
To find out more, contact NLG’s Economic Development Manager at 250 633-3000 or toll free, 1 866 633-0888.
