METIS SETTLEMENTS
INDIGENOUS PROTECTED AND CONSERVED AREAS
(IPCA) INITIATIVE
PROJECT INFORMATION
MSGC is conducting a pre-feasibility study to support the creation of an Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area (IPCA) in two areas of the Athabasca region that contain sites of cultural and ecological significance for the Métis Settlements. Protecting these areas through an IPCA model would support the rights and traditional land uses of the Métis Settlements by maintaining the ecological, spiritual, and cultural integrity of the land, water bodies, and wildlife.
The Study will identify important values (‘High Conservation Values’) by looking at several types information relevant to the two Study Areas (see maps below). We are relying upon Settlements’ coordinators to gather land use and cultural information from community members.
SETTLEMENT INVOLVEMENT
We need to know why the lands and their cultural and natural resources within/near the Study Areas are important to community members so that we can make an argument for their protection.
Community engagement (following COVID-19 protocols, of course) is integral to the success of this study. We will continue to engage with Settlements and we encourage anyone who is interested in this project to get in touch.
email: IPCA@msgc.com
MORE ABOUT IPCAS
In IPCAs, Indigenous Nations play a leading role in protecting lands, waters, and ecosystems, based on Indigenous governance, knowledge systems, and laws.
STUDY AREAS
Currently, the project is focused on understanding the different cultural, historic, and ecological values that are present in two areas in the Athabasca region:
Study Area A (outlined in orange): Runs from Lakeland Provincial Park to Wolf Lake, including the footprint of former Settlements at Touchwood and Wolf Lake
Study Area B (outlined in green): Focuses on the area around North Buck Lake
These study areas were selected because of the rescinded colonies, the importance of the areas for TLU, and high overall biodiversity values.
