2008 News Releases

2007 News Releases

2006 News Releases

2005 News Releases

2003 News Releases

NWT Water Strategy Framework

YELLOWKNIFE (June 19, 2008) – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) in collaboration with Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) NWT Regional office, is seeking input into the development of a Northwest Territories (NWT) Water Resources Management Strategy to address the current and potential challenges to water resources management in the NWT.

“Wetlands, deltas and water flows throughout northern Alberta and the southern Northwest Territories are changing, and the increased demand for energy and development requires that our concerns about water are heard and acted upon”, said ENR Minister Michael Miltenberger.  “A Water Resources Management Strategy should help us ensure that development activities do not substantially alter waters that flow into or through the NWT in quality or quantity.”

A discussion paper entitled Northern Voices, Northern Waters: Towards A Water Resources Management Strategy for the NWT presents a sense of what the future management of NWT waters could be.  It sets out both the form of a future Water Resources Management Strategy and the kinds of actions that could be undertaken to develop and implement a Strategy.

NWT residents, Aboriginal governments and organizations, and interested stakeholders will all have opportunity to contribute to the development of a Strategy.  An NWT Water Resources Management Strategy will incorporate traditional knowledge and recognize and respect Aboriginal and Treaty rights, land claim agreements and self-government agreements.

“Northern Voices, Northern Waters is presented in the form of an outline,” said Minister Miltenberger.  “It shows what could be included in an NWT Water Resources Management Strategy that should help us facilitate sound water resources management, especially regarding community public water supplies, transboundary waters and aquatic ecosystems.”

Consultations with Aboriginal governments and interested stakeholders will continue into the fall of 2008 and a final Strategy will be completed in March 2009.

For more information, contact:

Brad Poulter
Cabinet Communications
Office of the Premier
Government of the Northwest Territories
(867) 669-2302

YELLOWKNIFE (May 14, 2008) – Today’s decision by the United States (U.S.) Fish and Wildlife Service to list polar bears as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act will have an affect on Inuvialuit communities.

“It is ironic that, once again, decisions made in other countries are affecting the ability of Aboriginal people in the Northwest Territories (NWT) to benefit economically from one of the best managed species in the world,” said Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Minister Michael Miltenberger about the decision.  “We are working with the Government of Canada to find a practical solution to the listing that will continue to allow legally harvested polar bears to be imported to the United States.”

Inuvialuit communities were issued 103 polar bear tags in 2007-2008.  Thirty-seven of the tags are designated for outfitted polar bear hunts.  The majority of the hunters for these outfitted hunts, which generate about $700,000 for Inuvialuit communities, are U.S. citizens. 

“While climate change is affecting parts of the Arctic,” said Miltenberger, “Canadian polar bears, and the NWT population in particular, are not on the verge of extinction”.

Recently, the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada recommended polar bears remain a species of special concern, the same status it has had since 1991.

There are 13 populations of polar bears in Canada.  Each Canadian population is managed and monitored separately.

Polar bears are co-managed in the NWT.  The Wildlife Management Advisory Council (NWT), established through the Inuvialuit Final Agreement, is responsible for providing advice and recommendations to the Minister of ENR on polar bear management.  Any threats to polar bears and their habitat are carefully monitored and considered before making decision on quotas and management actions.

For more information, contact:

Judy McLinton
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Environment and Natural Resources
Tel: 867-873-7379
Email: judy_mclinton@gov.nt.ca
Website: www.enr.gov.nt.ca

Public Consultation on Waste Reduction and Recovery Program Expansion

YELLOWKNIFE (January 21, 2008) – The launch of public consultation to expand the Waste Reduction and Recovery Program in the Northwest Territories (NWT) was announced today by the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources Michael Miltenberger.

The consultations will determine what new waste products northerners would like to see recovered and recycled in the NWT. Under the Waste Reduction and Recovery Act (WRRA) the Government of the Northwest Territories can develop and implement programs to reduce waste and to recycle products and materials.

“We want to build on the success of the Beverage Container Program by asking residents what new waste products they would like to be recovered,” said Minister Miltenberger.

A public discussion document, To All NWT Residents – Help Decide What New Waste Products to Recycle Across the NWT, provides information on the benefits of waste reduction and recycling and asks for input and advice on what new products should be added to the territory-wide program.  Products under review are waste electronics, tires, lead acid batteries, fuel drums/scrap metal, plastic grocery bags, milk containers, and paper and cardboard.

Results of the consultations will be used to determine what, if any, new waste materials should be collected and recycled in the NWT.  

A copy of the discussion paper and a background report can be found on-line at: http://www.enr.gov.nt.ca/eps/index.htm

For more information, contact:

Environmental Protection Division
Environment and Natural Resources
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel:  (867) 873-7654
Fax: (867) 873-0221
Email:  nwtrecycle@gov.nt.ca

ENR and Canadian Boreal Initiative Sign MOU

YELLOWKNIFE (January 24, 2008) –Northwest Territories (NWT) boreal wildlife and protected areas Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been signed today by Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Minister Michael Miltenberger and Canadian Boreal Initiative (CBI) Executive Director Larry Innes.

“This agreement recognizes the significance of Canada’s Boreal region to our communities, wildlife and economy as well as Canada as a whole and acknowledges the value of working together with partners such as the Canadian Boreal Initiative to conserve NWT lands, wildlife and waters,” said Minister Miltenberger.

“The NWT is a leading jurisdiction within Canada in developing balanced solutions for conservation and sustainable use,” said Larry Innes, Executive Director of CBI.  “We look forward to identifying projects we can jointly support to help advance those solutions.”

CBI works with First Nations, governments, conservation organizations, industry leaders and others to link science, policy and conservation solutions across Canada’s Boreal Forest.  For more information, please visit www.borealcanada.ca.

Under the four-year MOU, ENR and the CBI will cooperate on mutually beneficial initiatives relating to boreal wildlife and protected areas.

For more information, contact:

Judy McLinton
Public Affairs and Communications
Environment and Natural Resources
Tel: 867-873-7379
Email: judy_mclinton@gov.nt.ca
Website: www.enr.gov.nt.ca

Public Consultation on Waste Reduction and Recovery Program Expansion

YELLOWKNIFE (January 21, 2008) – The launch of public consultation to expand the Waste Reduction and Recovery Program in the Northwest Territories (NWT) was announced today by the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources Michael Miltenberger.

The consultations will determine what new waste products northerners would like to see recovered and recycled in the NWT. Under the Waste Reduction and Recovery Act (WRRA) the Government of the Northwest Territories can develop and implement programs to reduce waste and to recycle products and materials.

“We want to build on the success of the Beverage Container Program by asking residents what new waste products they would like to be recovered,” said Minister Miltenberger.

A public discussion document, To All NWT Residents – Help Decide What New Waste Products to Recycle Across the NWT, provides information on the benefits of waste reduction and recycling and asks for input and advice on what new products should be added to the territory-wide program.  Products under review are waste electronics, tires, lead acid batteries, fuel drums/scrap metal, plastic grocery bags, milk containers, and paper and cardboard.

Results of the consultations will be used to determine what, if any, new waste materials should be collected and recycled in the NWT.  

A copy of the discussion paper and a background report can be found on-line at: http://www.enr.gov.nt.ca/eps/index.htm

For more information, contact:

Environmental Protection Division
Environment and Natural Resources
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel:  (867) 873-7654
Fax: (867) 873-0221
Email:  nwtrecycle@gov.nt.ca

Beverage Container Program Celebrates 50 Million Containers Collected

YELLOWKNIFE (December 17, 2007) – More than 50 million beverage containers have been returned to depots around the Northwest Territories (NWT), announced the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, the Honourable Michael Miltenberger.

“I am pleased to recognize the return of 50 million beverage containers to our depots,” said the Minister Miltenberger.  “This is a very successful program that would not be possible without the contributions of the public, depot operators and distributors, and I would like to thank everyone who has made this possible.”

The Beverage Container Program celebrated its second full year of operation in November. The program has experienced enormous success with an overall rate of return at 82%.  It continues to enjoy a high level of public support in all regions of the NWT. 

The Program has progressed considerably since its inception in November 2005.  At that time, eight communities had licensed depots and the program served 76 percent of the population.  Today, depots operate in 24 communities, which serve 95 percent of the NWT population.  In communities where there are currently no licensed depots, ENR contracts a depot operator from another community to provide periodic satellite depot services.

Eighty-nine percent of the containers returned are recycled or reused in southern markets.  The rest, which is non-refillable glass, is used locally for industrial purposes.  To date, the NWT has recycled more than 387 tonnes of aluminum, 239 tonnes of plastic, 35 tonnes of juice boxes and gable tops, and reused almost 7.2 million beer bottles.  

Air tanker services are an essential component of the Government of the Northwest Territories forest fire suppression program.

For more information, contact:

Emery Paquin
Director, Environmental Protection Division
Department of Environment and Natural Resources
(867) 873-7654
website: www.enr.gov.nt.ca

Air Tanker Services Contracts Awarded

YELLOWKNIFE (June 18, 2007) – Buffalo Airways Ltd. has been awarded the contracts to provide air tanker services in support of the forest fire management program in the Northwest Territories (NWT).

The announcement was made today by Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Minister Michael McLeod.

“The public process to award these substantial contracts for specialized services was open to aviation companies from across Canada and I am very pleased the successful proponent was a northern company,” said McLeod.  “This demonstrates the competitiveness of the NWT aviation industry and its ability to provide specialized services in support of forest fire preparedness and operations.”

One contract is to provide CL-215 air tankers services and the other is for land-based tanker services.   Both contracts are for a 10-year period covering the 2007/2008 to 2015/2016 forest fire seasons.  The CL-215 contract is estimated at  $23.5 million over ten years while the land-based air tanker contract is about $24.4 million for the same period.

Buffalo Airways was one of three companies that submitted proposals for the two contracts.  A technical evaluation team and a financial evaluation team, in the presence of a Fairness Commissioner, reviewed all proposals.  The proposals were evaluated on technical requirements, pricing and the NWT Business Incentive Policy.

Air tanker services are an essential component of the Government of the Northwest Territories forest fire suppression program.

For more information, contact:

Judy McLinton
Public Affairs and Communications
Environment and Natural Resources
Tel:  (867) 873-7379
Email:  judy_mclinton@gov.nt.ca
Website:  www.enr.gov.nt.ca

NWT Residents Pocket the Rewards of Saving Energy

Yellowknife ( June 6, 2007) – A new program offering benefits to the environment and rewards for energy efficiency was launched by the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources Michael McLeod today.

The Northwest Territories (NWT) Energy Efficiency Incentive Program (EEIP) is designed to help homeowners and businesses purchase new, more energy efficient models of products they use every day. NWT residents not only reduce their energy costs, they also receive a rebate on qualifying purchases.

“The Energy Efficiency Incentive Program encourages residents to purchase products that are better for our environment,” said Minister McLeod. “These products help reduce greenhouse gas emissions while saving energy and money.”

EEIP results from commitments made by the Government of the Northwest Territories in the NWT Greenhouse Gas Strategy and NWT Energy Plan earlier this year to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to assist residents with the high cost of energy.

EEIP is administered through the Arctic Energy Alliance. Residents, businesses and non-profit organizations purchasing eligible products from a participating NWT dealer receive rebates by submitting a completed application form and a copy of their sales receipt.

Rebate categories include home appliances, heating appliances, outboard motors and snowmobiles and home renovation products. Many of these products are also available for rebate through federal government programs, which can double the return on investment.

“Individual actions do make a difference,” said Minister McLeod. “This is another way NWT residents can lower their energy consumption and help reduce the amount of greenhouse gases released into our atmosphere.”

For a complete list of products available for rebate, visit the Arctic Energy Alliance website at www.aea.nt.ca.

For more information contact:

Judy McLinton
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Environment and Natural Resources
(867) 873-7379
judy_mclinton@gov.nt.ca

Taiga Plains Ecoregions report creates common ground

Yellowknife ( June 11, 2007) – The first in a series of reports on ecosystem classification, “Ecological Regions of the Northwest Territories – Taiga Plains”, creates a common baseline that can be used by land use planners, natural resource managers and regulators.

Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Minister, Michael McLeod said, “This report offers an ecosystem classification that is appropriate for the Northwest Territories and divides the Taiga Plains into 45 ecologically-based units. Given the increasing pace and scale of development in the Mackenzie Valley, the Taiga Plains was selected as the first region to be reclassified.”

The next regions currently undergoing reclassification are the Taiga Shield (expected to be released by end of 2007) and Taiga/Boreal Cordillera (expected to be released in spring 2009).

Minister McLeod said, “The Ecological Regions of the Northwest Territories – Taiga Plains” report will allow the Government of the Northwest Territories to respond to local, regional, national and international enquiries and is an important reference document for environmental impact assessment, land use planning and conservation.”

Climate is an important component of the new ecological classification and the information can therefore also be used as a benchmark in evaluating climate change over the long term.

A companion poster has also been developed that illustrates the ecoregions of the Taiga Plains in an easy-to-understand format. The digital map data are also available on ENR’s Spatial Data Warehouse.

For more information contact:

Kathy Mercure
Communications Planning Specialist
Environment and Natural Resources
(867) 920-3310
kathy_mercure@gov.nt.ca

Students ‘tap’ into Forest Resources

YELLOWKNIFE (May 14, 2007) – Northwest Territories (NWT) students are learning a traditional skill that will yield a tasty treat for their efforts.

The Forest Management Division of Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) has been working with former classroom teacher Mike Mitchell, who is now an outdoor educator to develop activity and lesson plans about birch sap harvesting and syrup production. Mr. Mitchell developed his expertise after working with local elders, and schools in the Hay River area.

“Birch sap harvesting and syrup production is a tradition that has been practiced by the people of the Northwest Territories for generations,” said Michael McLeod, Minister of ENR. “Passing on this traditional skill to our young people helps to give them a deeper appreciation of the importance of our boreal forests.”

South Slave and Dehcho students recently tapped birch trees and as the sap begins to flow in the Yellowknife, Sahtu and Inuvik areas, Mr. Mitchell will instruct teachers so they can incorporate this activity into their students outdoor education.

Bea Lepine, Extension Forester tasked with public education, is heading up this project for ENR.

“These activities and lesson plans combine math, social studies, science, and career technology studies in a way that makes learning fun and hands-on,” said Lepine “. Depending on the depth the teachers go into, students learn proper sap tapping technique, how to process the sap into syrup and how to protect the tree for future years.”

This is the first year of the project. Lepine anticipates making birch sap tapping available to all schools in the boreal forest in the future. The activities and lesson plans are suitable for all grade levels.

A video featuring elder Frederick Beaulieu, who has been practicing the traditional art of birch syrup making for many years, has also been released. Entitled “Thumper Creek Birch Syrup Company”, it complements the activity and lesson plan and will be available to educators.

Birch sap is delicious right from the tree, but when cooked down in a process similar to how maple syrup is made, it is excellent with bannock, fish, meat, in salad dressings, and of course, on pancakes and ice cream.

For more information contact:

Kathy Mercure
Communications Planning Specialist
Environment and Natural Resources
(867) 920-3310
kathy_mercure@gov.nt.ca

A limited number of the videos can be made available for media viewing on request.

NWT and Alberta Announce Plan to Protect Transboundary Water Resources

YELLOWKNIFE (21 March, 2007) – The Northwest Territories (NWT) and Alberta are moving ahead with the development of a Bilateral Water Management Agreement that will ensure the integrity of water flowing downstream from Alberta into the Mackenzie River Basin.

Alberta Environment Minister Rob Renner and Northwest Territories Minister of Environment and Natural Resources Michael McLeod met on March 20, 2007 and agreed to move ahead with development of an agreement.

“Water is vital to the long-term prosperity of every population,” said Alberta Environment Minister Rob Renner. “It is a resource that knows no boundaries, and we are committed to ensuring that Albertans and our downstream neighbours in the Northwest Territories have access to a healthy and sustainable water supply into the future.”

The agreement will help ensure the water management plans take an adaptive management approach, respect the jurisdiction of Governments, and ensure water is cooperatively managed for the benefit of the environment, economy and people.

“Wetlands and water flows throughout northern Alberta and the southern Northwest Territories are changing and affecting the fish, moose and other life in aquatic ecosystems,” said NWT Environment and Natural Resources Minister Michael McLeod. “As downstream users, NWT residents need to work cooperatively with Alberta for the protection and sustainable use of this precious resource.”

Alberta is working on a similar agreement with British Columbia.

The Northwest Territories signed a similar agreement with the Yukon in 2002.

For more information contact:

Judy McLinton
Public Affairs and Communications
Environment and Natural Resources
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 873-7379
judy_mclinton@gov.nt.ca 		Lisa Grotkowski
Communications
Alberta Environment
Tel: (780) 427-6267
lisa.grotkowski@gov.ab.ca

NWT Energy Plan and Revised NWT Greenhouse Gas Strategy Unveiled

YELLOWKNIFE (March 14, 2007) –Two key documents related to energy and climate change that will help ensure a lasting legacy of clean, affordable energy for future generations in the Northwest Territories (NWT), were released today by the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT.)

The new NWT Energy Plan will guide and support decisions regarding the future development, generation and use of energy in the NWT while the revised NWT Greenhouse Gas Strategy describes actions, measures and targets to support government, industry and individual efforts to control greenhouse gas emissions.

“The NWT has a tremendous supply of energy resources, yet the high cost of energy in communities remains. Sound planning is needed to determine the path of future energy use in the territory,” the Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment, Honourable Brendan Bell said. “This plan focuses on actions and investments.”

“The environmental impacts of energy use and in particular climate change are already being evidenced across the circumpolar north,” Environment and Natural Resources Minister Michael McLeod said.  “Together, these documents recognize that our energy future must begin with efforts to increase conservation and efficiency while maintaining the integrity of our environment.”

"I am very proud of the contribution made by the people of the Sahtu to the Doi T'oh Territorial Park and CANOL Heritage Trail Park Management Plan and look forward to the development of this new world-class territorial park," Sahtu MLA Norman Yakeleya added.

The announcement today represents a total investment of $6 million to be spent on a number of projects throughout the Northwest Territories, including the development of:

  • hydro resources including the potential development of mini-hydro-electric plants to service small isolated communities;
  • energy conservation programs to reduce household energy use;
  • an Energy Efficiency Financing Program to support energy-saving investments made by residents in their homes, appliances and vehicles;
  • alternative energy projects using wind and geothermal heat pumps; and,
  • projects using residual heating systems and surplus hydro capacity to heat public buildings.

Many of these initiatives share common priorities with the Federal Government’s recently announced series of EcoEnergy programs, including the recently announced $5 million EcoTrust funding for the Northwest Territories.

The Greenhouse Gas Strategy can be found online at: www.enr.gov.nt.ca.  The NWT Energy Plan can be found online at: www.nwtenergyplanning.ca.

For more information contact:

Drew Williams
Manager, Communications
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Tel: (867) 920-8696

Judy McLinton
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Environment and Natural Resources
Tel: (867) 873-7379

Dog Owners Warned Of Traplines On Snowmobile Trails

YELLOWKNIFE (19 January 2007) - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) wishes to advise the public to be aware of traplines on snowmobile trails in the Yellowknife area.

Snowmobile trails in, and around, the Yellowknife area have been, and continue to be used, for trapping.

It is an offence under the Wildlife Act to disturb a lawfully set trap. If you have any questions or concerns, please call the North Slave Regional ENR Office at 873-7184.

For more information, contact:

Raymond Bourget
Senior Wildlife Officer
Environment and Natural Resources
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 920-3049
Email: Raymond_Bourget@gov.nt.ca

GNWT Provides Bathurst Caribou Management Action Proposals to Wek’eezhii Renewable Resources Board

YELLOWKNIFE (19 December 2006) - The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has submitted a proposal to the Wek’eezhii Renewable Resources Board (WRRB) outlining potential management actions for the Bathurst caribou herd.

"As participants at the recent workshop on the Bathurst Caribou Management Plan recommended, we need to take serious action now to deal with the continuing decline in this herd,” said Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Minister Michael McLeod. “The management actions proposed to the WRRB are consistent with the management actions identified in the management plan when herd numbers are low.”

The implementation of the Tlicho Agreement established a new resource management regime in the Tlicho settlement area. The Agreement requires that resource management action proposals must be reviewed by the WRRB.

The Bathurst caribou herd’s range extends from south of the Northwest Territories (NWT) border, east of Great Slave Lake, northwest to Great Bear Lake and northeast to the Bathurst Inlet in Nunavut. Results from the 2006 calving ground survey indicate a 73 percent decline in herd’s size since 1986.

The GNWT’s proposed management actions for the herd include establishing compulsory reporting of harvest for all caribou hunters, eliminating commercial sale of caribou meat, reducing commercial tags available for outfitting and establishing a no hunting corridor on Tlicho winter roads.

“When caribou herds are declining, there are no sustainable harvest levels,” added Minister McLeod. “Unfortunately, these proposed actions will create economic hardships but we have already shut down all commercial and resident hunting of the Cape Bathurst, Bluenose-East and Bluenose-West herds and similar actions must now be considered for the Bathurst caribou herd."

The proposed actions are intended to limit the harvest to four percent of the 2006 herd estimate of 128,000 caribou. The requirement for compulsory reporting of harvest will allow a reassessment of these measures next year.

ENR staff will meet with Tlicho communities to review the proposed actions. A public meeting on the management actions will be held in Yellowknife in January.

The Tlicho Agreement and case law require that priority be given to non-commercial harvest over commercial harvest.

For more information, contact:

Judy McLinton
Manager, Public Affairs and Communication
Environment and Natural Resources
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 873-7379
Email: judy_mclinton@gov.nt.ca

NWT Caribou Summit To Be Held In Inuvik

YELLOWKNIFE (15 December 2006) - The Northwest Territories (NWT) Caribou Summit will be held in Inuvik on January 23-25, 2007.

The announcement was made today by the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources (ENR), the Honourable Michael McLeod.

“The Caribou Summit brings together people involved, or with an interest, in the management of caribou in the NWT to discuss the decline in herd numbers and actions to help the herds recover,” said Minister McLeod. “I look forward to hearing advice from these stakeholders on how we can better work together to deal with an issue that has a huge impact on all our lives.”

Representatives from the NWT, Nunavut, Yukon, as well as, northern Alberta and Saskatchewan are being invited to attend the workshop. Representatives from wildlife management boards and communities are also being invited to attend.

Topics of discussion at the Caribou Summit include engaging partners, making informed management decisions, managing impacts of human activities and addressing hardships from low caribou numbers.

"Our actions during the next four years will have a strategic effect on the recovery of the herds”, added Minister McLeod. “The Caribou Summit provides a unique opportunity to bring together all players who use and manage this shared resource to ensure it will remain a part of the traditional and modern economy.

The Summit will build on recommendations from a November 2006 workshop in Inuvik on addressing hardships and a December 2006 workshop in Yellowknife on implementing the Bathurst Caribou Management Plan.

For more information, contact:

Judy McLinton
Manager, Public Affairs and Communication
Environment and Natural Resources
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 873-7379
Email: judy_mclinton@gov.nt.ca

Beverage Container Program Celebrates Year of Successes

Yellowknife, November 1, 2006 - The results of the first year operation of the Beverage Container Program are cause for celebration - more than 23 million beverage containers were returned to community depots from November 1, 2005 to October 31, 2006.

Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Minister Michael McLeod has been watching the progress of the Program and is impressed with the participation of Northwest Territories (NWT) residents.

“Residents should be proud of the way they have embraced recycling as a part of their daily life. With more than 29.5 million beverage containers sold since November 2005 and 23 million returned, that’s an impressive return rate of 78 percent,” Minister McLeod said. “Not only are residents helping to recycle and reuse resources, but by returning containers to their local depots, they are also helping to keep our communities clean.”

Another success of the Program has been in finding recycling markets for beverage containers. Emery Paquin, Director of Environmental Protection said, “84% of the recovered containers are transported to southern recycling markets to be reused or turned into other useful products. Most of what is left, the non-reusable glass containers, is crushed and reused to substitute sand and gravel in construction sites.”

While the number of community depots increased from 11 to 26 in the first year of the Program, ENR continues to work towards the goal of having an independent licenced depot in every community.

Minister McLeod adds, “We are also looking towards undertaking public consultations by the fall of 2007 to identify additional waste types for recovery.”

The 2005/2006 Annual Report of the Beverage Container Program (which covers its first five months of operation) was tabled by Minister McLeod in the Legislative Assembly today. Copies can be obtained by visiting the ENR website at www.enr.gov.nt.ca/eps/beverage.htm.

For more information, please contact:

Emery Paquin
Director, Environmental Protection
Environment and Natural Resources
867 873-7654

Kathy Mercure
Communications Planning Specialist
Environment and Natural Resources
867 920-3310

Western NWT Biophysical Study Report Released

Yellowknife, November 1, 2006 - The second in a series of annual reports summarizing biophysical studies conducted in the western Northwest Territories (NWT) was released today by Environment and Natural Resources Minister Michael McLeod.

“The Western NWT Biophysical Study provides valuable information on the state of our wildlife resources, wildlife habitat, forests and air quality in the western NWT,” Minister McLeod said. “This information is vital in assisting the GNWT, Aboriginal governments, communities, industry and regulatory agencies to assess, monitor and mitigate potential environmental impacts of development activities in the NWT.”

Written as a series of project summaries contributed by project team leads, the plain language report is now accessible to public, industry, government and researchers. It also provides links to reports and other publications resulting from the Study.

The Western NWT Biophysical Study involves a number of partners including GNWT, federal agencies, co-management boards, universities, non-government organizations and industry. Most projects involve multiple partners and many are now in their second or third year of multi-year studies.

Regional and community workshops were also held in communities along the Mackenzie Valley to identify information needs and to regularly review progress of the Study. The workshops ensure priority information needs are being addressed and provide an opportunity for input by the public.

The Western NWT Biophysical Study, with links to individual project results, can be found on the ENR website at: wildlife.enr.gov.nt.ca

For more information, contact:

Ray Case
Manager, Technical Support
Wildlife Division
Environment and Natural Resources
Tel: (867) 920-8067

Status of NWT Species Documented

Yellowknife, November 1, 2006 - Minister of Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Michael McLeod has released the second report outlining the general status of more than 1700 wild species of plants, birds, fish and other animals in the Northwest Territories.

“The NWT Species 2006-2010 Report honours our monitoring commitment under the Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk in Canada,” said Minister McLeod. “Although most species in the NWT are not at risk, monitoring their status is important for detecting changes before they become critical and determining which species need a more detailed assessment or closer monitoring.”

The first general status report, released in 2000, ranked 400 species. The current report updates the status of these 400 species and provides ranks for an additional 1300 species. Species ranked include all mammals, fish, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and vascular plants and some insect groups like butterflies, dragonflies, damselflies, and tiger beetles.

The on-going monitoring of the status of NWT species allows northerners to detect changes in species distribution, population numbers and potential threats to wildlife populations or habitats. Information and data included in the report is gained through both traditional and scientific knowledge and is updated every five years. The report is a valuable reference tool used by government, wildlife co-management boards and industry to help prioritize environmental assessment, monitoring and research activities.

The Report was produced by ENR in partnership with all agencies with wildlife management responsibilities in the NWT. These are Environment Canada, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Fisheries Joint Management Committee, Gwich’in Renewable Resource Board, Sahtu Renewable Resources Board and Wildlife Management Advisory Council (NWT).

Copies of the NWT Species 2006-2010 Report are available from regional ENR offices or on the Internet at: wildlife.enr.gov.nt.ca.

For more information, contact:
Lynda Yonge
Acting Director, Wildlife
Environment and Natural Resources
Tel: (867) 920-8675

Bathurst Caribou Survey Completed

YELLOWKNIFE (19 September 2006) - A recent survey of the breeding females on the Bathurst caribou herd calving grounds shows the herd continued to decline at about five percent per year over the past decade.

In 1986 the calving ground survey estimated 203,000 breeding females and a herd size of approximately 472,000. A 2003 survey showed these numbers had fallen to approximately 80,800 breeding females and a total herd size of 186,000. June 2006 aerial surveys conducted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources shows this decline has continued. This survey estimated 55,600 breeding females and a herd size of 128,000.

Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, Michael Miltenberger, says that management actions were taken in 2006 across the Northwest Territories to address declining caribou herds. However, with the continued decline, further actions will be required. "I am looking for advice from the newly-formed Wek'eezhie Renewable Resources Board which will meet in early October. I will also be having discussions with all other affected governments, groups and organizations,” said Minister Miltenberger.

The North Slave regional office will hold a workshop in late fall to review management actions identified in the Bathurst Caribou Management Plan. This follows the workshop held in February 2006. Participants will include agencies and boards responsible for caribou management and representatives from First Nations, Inuit organizations, outfitters, resident hunters and the public.

For more information, contact:

Dr. Ray Case
Environment and Natural Resources
Manager, Technical Support
Wildlife Division
(867) 920-8067

Ernie Campbell
Environment and Natural Resources
Superintendent, North Slave Region
(867) 920-6134

Barren-ground Caribou Survey Results Released

YELLOWKNIFE (8 September, 2006) - Results from the July 2006 surveys of the Cape Bathurst and Bluenose-West caribou herds indicate these herds continue to decline. The July 2006 survey of the Bluenose East herd indicates this herd has remained the same size since last year. The results were presented to the Wildlife Management Advisory Council (Northwest Territories) at meetings in Inuvik on September 7th.

Photocensus surveys, completed in July, 2005 showed that the three barren-ground caribou herds, harvested mainly by hunters in the Inuvik and Sahtu regions of the Northwest Territories, had declined from peak numbers observed last decade.

  • Cape Bathurst - The Cape Bathurst Herd had from an estimate of 17,500 in 1992 to an estimate of 2,400 in 2005. In 2006, herd size was estimated at 1,800.

  • Bluenose-West - The Bluenose-West Herd had declined from an estimate of 98,900 in 1987 to an estimate of 20,800 in 2005. In 2006, herd size was estimated at 18,000.

  • Bluenose-East - The Bluenose-East Herd had declined from an estimate of 104,000 in 2000 to an estimate of 66,600 in 2005. In 2006, herd size was estimated at 66,200.

  • Tuktoyaktuk Peninsula - In September 2005, a visual survey of the Peninsula estimated 3900 caribou and reindeer. In July 2006, a photographic survey estimated 3,100 animals, of which approximately 80% are reindeer.

Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Minister Michael Miltenberger stated, “Recognizing that we all have to work together, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) released a NWT Barren-ground Ground Caribou Strategy in February which outline ways to help the herds recover. Actions under the strategy are being implemented and it is critical we work closely with the co-management boards.”

Presentations to co-management boards and affected communities will occur throughout September and will also include the Sahtu and Gwich’in Renewable Resources Boards.

For the most severely affected Cape Bathurst herd, recommendations from the co-management boards to close resident, non-resident and commercial hunting have been implemented. For the other herds, the number of tags for resident hunters and outfitting have been reduced. As well, resident hunters may only shoot bulls.

In addition to these surveys, a photographic survey was also done of the breeding females on the calving grounds of the Bathurst herd in June 2006. Results from this survey will be available in mid-September. The last survey was in June 2003 and the Bathurst Caribou Management Plan calls for surveys every three years, when numbers are low.

ENR Technical Support Manager Dr. Ray Case says, “These surveys have confirmed the trends we found last year. Reversing the trends will now need to be the focus of management actions."

Minister Miltenberger added, “A Caribou Summit will be held in early 2007 to bring together all co-management boards, agencies, harvesters and groups that are affected by low caribou numbers. To help our herds recover, we will need everyone's full support for measures that must be taken so our children will have caribou in the future.”

For more information please contact:

Ray Case - ENR
Manager, Technical Support
Wildlife Division
(867) 920-8067

Ron Morrison - ENR
Superintendent, Inuvik Region
(867) 777-7295

Final Consultation Document on Proposed Species at Risk Legislation Now Available

YELLOWKNIFE (6 September, 2006) - A final consultation document outlining the major elements proposed for a new Species at Risk Act (SARA) in the Northwest Territories (NWT) is now available.

The document was released this week by Environment and Natural Resources Minister J. Michael Miltenberger.

“Protecting species at risk is a shared responsibility. Effective management, protection and recovery of species at risk in the NWT requires the involvement and cooperation of everyone, including wildlife co-management boards, harvesters, stakeholders, residents, industry and governments,” Minister Miltenberger stated. “I encourage residents to review the document and provide comments on it.”

Consultation has been an important component in developing species at risk legislation for the NWT.

Since 1999, ENR has met with Aboriginal governments and organizations, resident hunters and other stakeholders to ensure their views were considered in developing the proposed legislation.

Most recently, ENR has worked closely with land claim organizations to ensure the approach proposed for species at risk management in the NWT respects and fully integrates the roles and responsibilities of the wildlife co-management boards.

The SARA document is available on the ENR website at: http://wildlife.enr.gov.nt.ca or from a regional ENR office.

Comments received by September 30, 2006 will be considered as draft legislation is prepared for introduction into the Legislative Assembly early in 2007.

For more information, contact:

Susan Fleck
Director, Wildlife Division
(867) 920-8043

GNWT Launches Energy Discussion

YELLOWKNIFE (June 7, 2006) -- A discussion paper on the Government of the Northwest Territories’ (GNWT) future approach to energy development, management and use was introduced in the Legislative Assembly today by the Minister of Industry Tourism and Investment, Brendan Bell and the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources Michael Miltenberger.

Entitled “Energy for the Future”, the discussion paper proposes a policy framework and suggested strategic actions in support of this framework. It is intended to provide a reference point for discussions with Aboriginal organizations, municipal governments, businesses and Northwest Territories (NWT) residents towards the creation of a comprehensive Energy Plan for the Territory to be completed this fall.

“In the coming months we will talk with NWT residents and work to develop a plan that incorporates their input,” Minister Bell said. “Our discussions are timely as we face the realities of high energy prices driven by global demand, and position ourselves to take advantage of pending resource development.”

“Striking a balance between maximizing the benefits of resource development and providing sound management of our northern environment is a fundamental part of the energy discussion,” Mr. Miltenberger said. “These issues are critical in our work to ensure a sustainable energy future for the NWT, while continuing to protect our natural environment”.

The Government’s discussion paper, and a plain language summary can be viewed at www.nwtenergyplanning.ca.

For more information contact:

Julia Mott
Coordinator, Cabinet Communications
Office of the Premier
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 669-230

NWT Takes Leading Role in Air Quality Monitoring

YELLOWKNIFE (June 7, 2006) - In commemoration of National Clean Air Day, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Minister Michael Miltenberger unveiled a new website and annual report that make the Northwest Territories a leader in providing up-to-the-minute information about the quality of our air.

Through ongoing partnerships with the Government of Canada and municipalities, the Department has been able to establish and operate a network of state-of-the-art air quality monitoring stations. The Northwest Territories is now ahead of many other jurisdictions in its air quality monitoring network.

The new air quality website provides residents with access to virtually live, real-time air quality information from monitoring stations in Yellowknife, Fort Liard, Norman Wells and Inuvik. In addition, the site provides descriptions of the types of air pollutants measured and will help people to understand what these measurements mean.

“Today, on Clean Air Day in Canada, I invite residents to pause, breathe deeply, remember the importance and value of the air we breathe, and take up the challenge of keeping our clean air – clean,” said Minister Miltenberger.

Visit the air quality website at:

http://lisin.rwed-hq.gov.nt.ca/NWTAQ/NetworkSummary.aspx

For more information, please contact:

Emery Paquin
Director, Environmental Protection
Environment and Natural Resources
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 873-7654

Second Report of NWT Biodiversity Action Plan Released

Yellowknife (May 19, 2006) - Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Minister Michael Miltenberger released the second report of the NWT Biodiversity Action Plan today, linking efforts in the Northwest Territories to International Biodiversity Day, May 22nd.

The report makes recommendations on how to close gaps and improve cooperation on biodiversity actions undertaken in the Northwest Territories.

“Biodiversity can be described as the web of life. All life is interconnected, like a spider’s web and this work is critical to ensuring the quality of our air, land, water, wildlife and forests are protected,” said Miltenberger.

This work is the second report developed by the NWT Biodiversity Team, which includes representation from federal and territorial government departments, and many other organizations and groups. It complements a first report, published in 2004, which listed all biodiversity actions underway in the NWT. With the help of the NWT Biodiversity Team, ENR assumed the task of coordinating an analysis of gaps and overlaps in NWT actions and recommended strategies to improve The Government of the Northwest Territories’ efforts over the next decade.

“I extend my congratulations to the NWT Biodiversity Team for developing this strategic report,” said Miltenberger.

The Team will continue to develop tools and help groups working on all aspects of biodiversity in the NWT. “Working with partner groups will improve efficiency, increase cooperation and initiate new actions to fill gaps in the Government of the Northwest Territories’ commitments under the Canadian Biodiversity Strategy,” he added.

Copies of Report 2 of the NWT Biodiversity Action Plan are available from regional ENR offices or on the Internet at: http://wildlife.enr.gov.nt.ca.

For more information, contact:
Susan Fleck
Director, Wildlife Division
Environment and Natural Resources
Tel: (867) 920-8064

NWT Sends Additional Resources to Assist Forest Fire Operations in Alberta

Fort Smith (May 17, 2006) - Additional fire personnel and resources from the Northwest Territories (NWT) have been sent to Alberta to assist in fighting wildfires in the province.

Six crews of five firefighters each, two sector leaders and one agency representative left last night for Rocky Mountain House. The crews are from Fort Smith, Hay River, Fort Providence and Fort Simpson.

A CL-215 tanker group has also been dispatched to Lac La Biche. The group includes two CL-215 tankers and one bird dog aircraft.

The Government of the Northwest Territories is providing the resources as part of the Canadian Interagency Mutual Aid Resources Sharing Agreement. Fire danger in Alberta is moderate to high across the province.

There are sufficient resources in the NWT to deal with any potential fire situations. People travelling in the bush or on the land this weekend are reminded this is the time of the year when wildfires are likely to start, spread and cause damage to values-at-risk. Anyone travelling in the forest is asked to take care when using fire and to make sure all campfires are properly extinguished. To report a forest fire, call 1-877-NWT-FIRE (1-877-698-3473).

For more information, contact:
Frank Lepine
Territorial Duty Officer
Environment and Natural Resources
Tel: (867) 872-7710
http://forestmanagement.enr.gov.nt.ca

DNA Testing Confirms Polar/Grizzly Bear Hybrid Shot Near Banks Island

YELLOWKNIFE (May 9, 2006) - DNA testing has confirmed that a bear shot near Banks Island last month is a polar bear/grizzly bear hybrid.

A sport hunter from the United States shot the animal on April 16, 2006 near Nelson Head on southern Banks Island.

As the animal appeared unusual to the hunter and the guide, the hide was turned over to Environment and Natural Resources officials for testing to determine the species. A wildlife genetics laboratory conducted DNA testing on skin samples taken from the hide. By comparing the DNA from this bear with DNA previously collected from polar bears in the area and

with DNA previously collected from grizzly bears along the coast south of the area, the analysis confirmed that this bear was a hybrid. This could be the first recorded polar/grizzly bear hybrid found in the wild.

ENR will return the hide to the hunter. He was hunting with a licensed guide and had a non-resident alien tag for the animal.

Additional analyses are underway to determine if the mother was a grizzly bear or a polar bear and to determine the age of the bear.

For more information, contact:

Judy McLinton, Manager
Public Affairs and Communications
Environment and Natural Resources
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 873-7379
Email: judy_mclinton@gov.nt.ca

Recycling Contest Hits Home in the NWT

Yellowknife, May 8, 2006 – The recent ‘NWT Recycles' contest for the Beverage Container Program proved popular with NWT students, garnering 378 entries in all grades levels.

Environment and Natural Resources Minister Michael Miltenberger offered his congratulations to all students who entered the contest. “Youth play a big role in the success of the Beverage Container Program. They are making a difference in their communities by returning beverage containers at their community depots. NWT residents are returning almost one and a half million containers a month –and that’s good news for the environment.”

“We are especially pleased with the number of youth who are using the Program as a fundraising activity for their schools,” added Miltenberger.

The contest, aimed at raising awareness of the importance of recycling, included colouring pages, cartooning, inventing recycling machines and radio and television PSAs. Regional winners were awarded a backpack filled with recycling-oriented items such as a re-usable water bottle, a recycled t-shirt made from pop bottles, and environmental books or a water powered clock.

Territorial winners were awarded $500 for their school for K–9 categories. In addition to the prize for their school, the winning entrant from the Grade 10–12 television PSA category was also awarded a $500 cash prize.

“We were impressed with the number of entries,” Emery Paquin, Director of Environmental Protection noted. “The calibre of entries was also very high. We are now in the process of developing the PSAs for airing on radio and television.”

A selection of the colouring pages, recycling machine inventions and comic strips will be sent to the respective regional processing centres for display.

For more information, please contact:

Brenda Hans
Public Education Specialist
Environment and Natural Resources
867 873-7779 		Kathy Mercure
Communications Planning Specialist
Environment and Natural Resources
867 920-3310

NWT Recycles Regional Winners:
 
K-1 Colouring:
Trisha Sangris
 K'alemi Dene School Ndilo
Kirsten Charlo Kaw Tay Whee School Dettah
Tatianna Castillo N.J. Macpherson School Yellowknife
Celeste Tourangeau JB Tyrell School Fort Smith
Zachary Sangris Lutsel K'e Dene School Lutsel K'e
Jake Smallgeese Chief Sunrise School Hay River Reserve
 
Grades 2–3 Recycling Machine:
Chloe Kanayok Helen Kalvak Elihakvik Ulukhaktok
Sean Ekotla Charles Yohin School Nahanni Butte
Rachel Demmon J.H. Sissons School Yellowknife
Kristen Martel Chief Sunrise School Hay River Reserve
Kali Ward Harry Camsell School Hay River
Destiny Ekotla Charles Yohin School Nahanni Butte
Colin Johnstone Sir Alexander Mackenzie Inuvik
 
Comic Strip:
Steven Allridge Sir Alexander Mackenzie Inuvik
Kiyana Betsaka Charles Yohin School Nahanni Butte
Isaac Salopree Princess Alexandra School Hay River
 
No Regional Entries for Radio PSAs. No Regional Category for High School.
 
NWT Recycles Territorial Winners:
 
K-1 Colouring:
Dustin Arey Sir Alexander Mackenzie Inuvik
 
Grades 2–3 Invent a Recycling Machine:
Jayme Nerysoo Chief Julius School Fort McPherson
 
Grades 4–6 Comic Strip:
Keegan Tsetta K'alemi Dene School Ndilo
 
Grades 7–9 Radio PSA:
Abeer Shoblak and Ecole Allain St-Cyr Yellowknife
Yasmeen Shoblak    
 
Grades 10–12 Television PSA:
Krystal Shaben and Sir John Franklin Yellowknife
Samantha Kennedy    

NWT Fire Crews to Assist in Alberta

Fort Smith (April 28, 2006) – The Government of the Northwest Territories is sending 26 fire management personnel to Alberta as part of the Canadian Interagency Mutual Aid Resources Sharing Agreement.

The five crews of five firefighters each and an agency representative left this morning for Lac La Biche, Alberta. The crews, from Fort Simpson and Fort Smith, are expected to be in Alberta for two weeks.

Fire danger in Alberta is high to extreme across most of the province due to a combination of above average temperatures, strong winds and unusually low humidity.

The wildfire season in the Northwest Territories runs from May 1st to September 30th. This is the time of the year when wildfires are likely to start, spread and cause damage to values-at-risk. To report a forest fire, call 1-877-NWT-FIRE (1-877-698-3473).

For more information, contact:

Frank Lepine
Territorial Duty Officer
Environment and Natural Resources
Tel: (867) 872-7710
http://forestmanagement.enr.gov.nt.ca

Over 6 million containers recycled in 4 months

YELLOWKNIFE (April 19, 2006) – Since the Beverage Container Program began November 1, 2005, over six million beverage containers have been returned for reuse and recycling.

Environment and Natural Resources Minister Michael Miltenberger continues to be impressed by the commitment residents of the Northwest Territories have shown towards recycling and the Beverage Container Program.

“There are six million fewer containers that have ended up in our landfills or littering our roads and highways,” said Minister Miltenberger. “It shows just how much residents of the Northwest Territories care about our environment and keeping their communities cleaner.”

During the first four and one-half months of the program, Yellowknife residents returned 3 million containers. The remaining 3 million containers were returned to the other recycling depots in the Northwest Territories.

“The key to the program’s success has been community participation, in that we now have 26 businesses operating community depots. Interim arrangements have been made for the remaining communities that do not have depots. In this way, all residents are able to return their beverage containers for recycling,” says Director of Environmental Protection, Emery Paquin.

Recently, another milestone was reached when two semi-trailers filled with 36,000 lbs (16,329 kg) of baled aluminum and 33,000 lbs (14,968 kg) of plastic containers left the Yellowknife Processing Centre (the Bottle Shop). The bales were destined for recyclers in Vancouver.

Since the Beverage Container Program began, 25 semi-trailer loads of refillable glass containers, or about 1.5 million bottles, have also been shipped to Edmonton for reuse.

Recovered Containers by Processing Centre
from November 1, 2005 to March 15, 2006

Processing Centre Quantity
Yellowknife
(includes North Slave Region)		 3,300,104
Inuvik
(includes Inuvik Region)		 1,107,161
Hay River
(includes South Slave, Deh Cho and Sahtu Regions)		 1,690,303
Total 6,097,568

For more information, please contact:

Emery Paquin
Director, Environmental Protection
Environment and Natural Resources
867 873-7654

Kathy Mercure
Communications Planning Specialist
Environment and Natural Resources
867 920-3310

GNWT Barren-ground Caribou Management Strategy and Interim Measures

Yellowknife (February 20, 2006) - A strategy to guide the management of barren-ground caribou herds in the Northwest Territories (NWT) was released today by Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Minister, Honourable Michael Miltenberger.

"Evidence from traditional and scientific sources show that barren-ground caribou herds are declining," said Minister Miltenberger. "Given this trend, the Government of the Northwest Territories, along with co-management boards and harvesters must act in the best interests of conserving our barren-ground caribou populations."

The NWT Barren-ground Caribou Management Strategy outlines approaches that can be taken during the next five years to conserve the herds in the NWT. It includes conservation measures, both immediate and long term, to ensure the sustainability of the barren-ground caribou herds.

"When wildlife population trends suggest there is a serious concern ENR applies the "Precautionary Principal." This means that management decisions err on the side of caution," added Minister Miltenberger. "We know that caribou numbers are declining and we must take reasonable conservation measures now to prevent serious or irreparable damage to this resource."

Immediate actions, to be applied throughout the Northwest Territories during the next six months, include:

  • reducing caribou tags for resident harvesters from five to two;
  • allowing resident harvesters to hunt bulls only;
  • reducing caribou tags for outfitters on the Bathurst herd fall range to 1999 levels;
  • increasing wolf tags for non-resident harvesters from one to two;
  • delaying the public release of maps showing the locations of satellite collared caribou by two weeks;
  • increasing enforcement patrols; and,
  • developing a major public education campaign.

The NWT co-management boards have also recommended specific actions to reduce harvesting of herds within their settlement regions. The Government of the Northwest Territories accepts the voluntary harvest limits proposed by co-management boards and will continue to work with those boards on any further necessary actions. The actions and overall caribou management strategy draw on management planning initiatives conducted with co-management boards, caribou management boards and NWT communities.

A copy of the Barren-ground Caribou Management Strategy can be found on the ENR website at: www.enr.gov.nt.ca.

For more information, contact:

Julia Mott
Coordinator, Cabinet Communications
Office of the Premier
Phone: (867) 669-2304

Hunters Asked to Participate in the Bathurst Caribou Herd Monitoring Program

YELLOWKNIFE (December 12, 2005): Staff at the North Slave Regional office of Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) are asking for help from Northwest Territories (NWT) hunters through their participation in a monitoring program that samples harvested barren-ground caribou.

“Caribou are a way of life in the North, both traditionally and economically and by monitoring the health of animals from the Bathurst herd, we will continue to learn more about the herd and NWT caribou in general,” said ENR Minister, Michael Miltenberger.

The North Slave Regional office is providing data collection kits, which include a sample bag, ruler, marker, pencil and a data sheet for the harvesters to fill in. Hunters are asked to collect the kidney and any fat surrounding it, in addition to taking a measurement of the amount of back fat on the caribou.

“For example, we’re looking at the amount of fat on the kidney, which, when studied with other indicators, is an excellent barometer of the overall condition of the animal,” said Caribou Monitoring Programs Technician, Dave Abernethy. “We are asking harvesters to record information about the condition of harvested caribou, as well as some general observations of the caribou in the group. This information, combined with field studies, will help us to understand the overall health and condition of the caribou herd.”

Community hunts and the outfitting industry are also participating in the monitoring program. Resident hunters interested in participating in this study are asked to drop into or call the North Slave Regional Office at 873-7184.

For more information, contact:

Kathy Mercure
Communications Planning Specialist
Phone: (867) 920-3310
kathy_mercure@gov.nt.ca

Minister Clarifies Statement in Washington Post

YELLOWKNIFE (December 12, 2005) - The Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, the Honourable Michael Miltenberger, has clarified a statement attributed to him in a recent Washington Post article.

Michael Miltenberger discussed resource development in the Northwest Territories including mineral exploration and the potential construction of the Mackenzie Gas Pipeline during a lengthy interview with the reporter.

"The Northwest Territories has a wealth of development opportunities given our vast mineral and petroleum resources and businesses continue to express interest in exploring potential opportunities," said Minister Miltenberger. "But any exploration or development in the Northwest Territories must comply with the strong regulatory regime that governs such activity. This regime requires compliance with land claims agreements and federal and territorial legislation including environmental assessment."

"The Government of the Northwest Territories has a long history of working with our other partners, including Aboriginal organizations, to ensure development occurs in a sustainable and environmentally sensitive manner. The Protected Areas Strategy is one such example," concluded Minister Miltenberger.

For more information, contact:

Julia Mott
Coordinator, Cabinet Communications
Office of the Premier
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 669-2304

Barren-ground Caribou Survey Results Released

Yellowknife (September 12, 2005) - Results from a July 2005 survey show a decline in populations of the Cape Bathurst, Bluenose West and Bluenose East caribou herds. The results were presented to the Wildlife Management Advisory Council (Northwest Territories) at meetings in Whitehorse on September 10th and 11th.

The photocensus survey, completed in July, 2005 shows that the three barren-ground caribou herds, harvested mainly by hunters in the Inuvik and Sahtu regions of the Northwest Territories, have declined from peak numbers observed last decade.

  • The Cape Bathurst Herd has declined from an estimate of 17,500 in 1992 to an estimated 2,400 in 2005.
  • The Bluenose West Herd has declined from an estimate of 98,900 in 1987 to an estimated 20,800 in 2005.
  • The Bluenose East Herd has declined from an estimate of 104,000 in 2000 to an estimated 66,600 in 2005.

Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Minister Michael Miltenberger stated, “The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is working closely with co-management boards to develop and implement management and action plans.”

Presentations to co-management boards and affected communities will occur throughout September and will also include the Sahtu and Gwich’in Renewable Resources Boards.

ENR Technical Support Manager Dr. Ray Case says, “The observed declines were not unexpected as declines have also been observed in the neighbouring Porcupine and Bathurst caribou herds and the caribou herds tend to increase and decrease in size together. Working with the co-management boards to identify and implement management options is the first step towards ensuring sustainability of the herds.”

Minister Miltenberger added, “The GNWT will continue to work with all our partners to ensure the herds stay healthy, viable and able to meet the needs of harvesters today and in the future.”

For more information please contact:
Ray Case – ENR
Manager, Technical Support
(867) 920-8067

Ron Morrison – ENR
Superintendent, Inuvik Region
(867) 777-7295

Ingraham Trail Will Be Monitored

YELLOWKNIFE (June 29, 2005) - A new group has been created to monitor the area along the Ingraham Trail. The group is comprised of officials from Environment and Natural Resources, Industry, Tourism and Investment, Municipal and Community Affairs, Department of Transportation, RCMP and the Yellowknives Dene.

The Ingraham Trail and Cameron River are important areas for people living in the Yellowknife area and for tourists. The areas are popular for camping and picnicking. Human activity has the potential to cause environmental damage and interfere with the enjoyment of others. The Ingraham Trail Working Group plans to monitor the area to help to reduce or minimize the effects that people may have on the area and to ensure compliance with NWT laws and regulations. Check-stops are planned for the Ingraham Trail throughout the summer.

People using the area are reminded that they have a responsibility to act in a respectful manner towards other people and to protect the environment. Drive carefully, do not litter and do not cut down green trees.

The intent of this initiative by the Ingraham Trail Working Group is to preserve the ecological integrity of the Ingraham Trail and to ensure the safety of people using the area.

The public is reminded to use the garbage bins where provided. People are also encouraged to report unlawful activities to the RCMP at 669-1111.

For more information, contact:

Lance Schmidt
Manager, Forests, North Slave Region
Environment and Natural Resources
Phone: (867) 920-6114

Deputy Ministers Appointed for New GNWT Departments

YELLOWKNIFE (April 4, 2005) - Premier Joe Handley appointed Peter Vician as Deputy Minister for the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI), and Robert Bailey as Deputy Minister for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) effective April 1, 2005.

“As the Deputy Minister of the former Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, Mr. Vician will bring continuity and leadership to the government’s role in economic development for the Northwest Territories,” stated Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment Brendan Bell.

Mr. Vician was appointed Deputy Minister of the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development (RWED) in December 2003. He also served as the Deputy Minister of the Department of Transportation from 1999-2003.

“I look forward to the expertise that Mr. Bailey brings to this new department,” stated Minister of Environment and Natural Resources Michael Miltenberger. “His extensive service in the environment and natural resource sector within government will assist in establishing a solid beginning for ENR.”

Mr. Bailey was appointed Assistant Deputy Minister, Operations position with the RWED in 1998. He also served as the Director of Forest Management for RWED from 1996-1998 and as Director of Forest Fire Management from 1987-1996.

The appointments are effective immediately.

For more information, contact:

Judy McLinton
Public Affairs and Communications
ENR
Tel: 867-873-7379

John Stephenson
Public Affairs and Communications
ITI
Tel:(867) 920-8696

 GNWT Steps Toward Waste Recovery Programs

YELLOWKNIFE (October 24) - The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) will move ahead with developing territory-wide waste recovery programs thanks to the passage of the new Waste Reduction and Recovery Act October 10, 2003.

The new legislation allows the government to establish programs to recover, recycle and reuse waste materials. Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development (RWED) Jim Antoine says it is a significant step towards reducing the impact of waste on the environment, the amount of litter and the costs of handling garbage in communities and increasing the lifespan of community landfills.

The new legislation also allows the GNWT to ban the distribution or sale of some items that could harm the environment.

The first program to be developed under the new legislation is a beverage container recovery program. Other programs, such as recovery programs for cardboard, plastics, computers and tires, may be added in the future.

“Residents will be consulted before any recovery programs are established,” the Minister noted. “The success of recovery programs depends on wide-spread public participation and support.”

The costs of establishing, operating and evaluating recovery and recycling programs will be covered by the Environment Fund - a special purpose fund established by the Waste Reduction and Recovery Act. All deposits and non-refundable fees collected through recovery programs will be paid into the Environment Fund.

For more information, contact:

Emery Paquin
Director, Environment Division
Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development
Tel: (867) 873-7654

Bathurst Caribou Survey Completed

YELLOWKNIFE (October 17) - A recent survey of the Bathurst caribou herd’s calving grounds shows the size of the herd to be about 186,000 animals.

The aerial survey was done in June 2003 by the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development with financial assistance from the Nunavut Department of Sustainable Development and the federal Department of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada.

The results of this latest survey indicate that the Bathurst caribou herd has been declining by about five percent a year for the past decade.

Minister of Resources Wildlife and Economic Development Jim Antoine says it is natural for caribou herds to increase and decrease in size. Elders and biologists have noted changes in the size of the herd in the past however, Mr. Antoine says, the latest survey results raise some concerns about the current status of the herd.

“We will work more closely with our partners and all harvesters to increase monitoring of the herd and to determine what measures may be required to ensure the herd remains healthy and viable,” the Minister said.

The Governments of the Northwest Territories, Nunavut and Canada along with Aboriginal governments and co-management boards are responsible for the management of the Bathurst caribou and their range. The range of the herd extends from the calving grounds near Bathurst Inlet south toward Great Slave Lake and further southeast toward northern Saskatchewan.

Aboriginal harvesters from the NWT and Nunavut hunt the Bathurst caribou across their seasonal ranges. Resident and non-resident hunters harvest Bathurst caribou under a tag and quota system. Tags for commercial use are also available to Aboriginal harvesters.

Results of the June 2003 Bathurst Caribou Calving Ground Survey will be provided to the Bathurst Caribou Management Planning Committee. This committee was established in 2000 to draft a 10-year Bathurst Caribou Management Plan. It will ensure that the management plan and recommended management actions reflect the results of this survey.

For more information, contact:
Doug Stewart,
Director, Wildlife
Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development
Tel: (867) 920-8064

Minister Hopes Impact of Con Mine Closure Can be Minimized

YELLOWKNIFE (August 28,2003) -- Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development Jim Antoine says the announced closure of underground operations at the Con gold mine in Yellowknife comes as difficult news for residents of Yellowknife and the Northwest Territories.

“The city of Yellowknife owes its establishment to the Con and Giant mines,” Mr. Antoine said. “Together with their families, the men and women employed by these mines are the foundation and a sustaining force of our community.”

Miramar Mining Corporation, the owner of Yellowknife’s Con mine, announced yesterday that it will terminate underground mining operations at Con on November 30, 2003 due to ongoing operating losses. Giant Yellowknife mine, also owned by Miramar, will continue to mine ore for processing through the Con Mine’s milling facilities.

Mr. Antoine says senior government officials are being asked to review and assess the economic effects that the closure of Con Mine will have on Yellowknife and the NWT and to explore ways that negative economic impacts can be mitigated.

The Minister says he has been assured that the Con Mine will meet its pension obligations and has ensured sufficient funds to more than cover its reclamation obligations.

Miramar Mining Corporation plans to remain a gold producer in the Yellowknife area through mid 2005 generating an estimated 135,000 to 155,000 ounces of gold in that period.

Mr. Antoine expressed his hope that many of the workers displaced by today’s announcement can find employment at Giant mine or at Miramar’s new gold mining project at Hope Bay in Nunavut.

For more information, contact:
Bob McLeod
Deputy Minister
Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development
Tel: (867) 920-8048

RWED Minister Applauds Lifting of US Ban

YELLOWKNIFE (August 13, 2003) – Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development Jim Antoine is applauding the United States’ decision to reopen its borders to wild meat from caribou, muskox, sheep and moose.

”This is welcome news for outfitters in the Northwest Territories as big game hunters will again be able to transport wild meat home to the United States,” Mr. Antoine noted.

Mr. Antoine originally raised the issue with all agricultural Ministers in Vancouver in early June whereupon the federal government made the US government aware of the broad economic impacts of their ban.

The announcement of the partial lifting of the ban on Canadian beef and other products considered at low risk of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) was made Friday by the United States Department of Agriculture.

Meat from hunter-harvested animals can gain immediate entry into the U.S. under permit.

For more information, contact: Bob McLeod
Deputy Minister
Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development
Tel: (867) 920-8048

GNWT Enhances Environmental
Assessment Team

YELLOWKNIFE (July 11, 2003) - A new Environmental Assessment Unit has been formed within the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development (RWED) to co-ordinate the thorough environmental evaluation of all proposed resource developments in the Northwest Territories.

Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development Jim Antoine says the new unit will assess the potential impact of proposed developments on residents of the Northwest Territories and work to ensure that development continues in a manner that is environmentally sustainable and beneficial.

“The growth of the non-renewable resource sector, particularly the diamond and oil and natural gas industries, continues to drive the economy of the Northwest Territories,” he said. “As a government, it is our responsibility to protect, not only the natural environment of the NWT but, the social, cultural and economic well-being of its residents as well.”

The need for an expanded environmental assessment capability within RWED has become a major priority because of the unique role the territorial government plays in environmental and regulatory processes.

For more information, contact: Bob Bailey
Assistant Deputy Minister
Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development
Tel: (867) 920-6389

BSE Compensation Fair Says Minister

YELLOWKNIFE (June 19, 2003) - Minister of Resources Wildlife and Economic Development (RWED) Jim Antoine says the financial program aimed at reducing some of the economic impacts arising from the outbreak of BSE in the cattle industry is fair.

The Minister worked with his federal, provincial and territorial colleagues to develop the program, which will provide immediate, short-term relief to those directly affected by the BSE outbreak.

“The number one priority has been, and continues to be, the re-opening of borders,” Mr. Antoine said. “This program will meet the most immediate and pressing need. I will continue to work with my federal, provincial and territorial colleagues to monitor and respond to developments as they emerge.”

Officials from RWED have surveyed various sectors in the Northwest Territories to determine if there is any cause for immediate concerns.

Outfitters in the NWT have received protocols that they are to follow to ensure their clients do not run into problems at the Canada/United States border. While, the Canadian Tourism Commission has provided the protocols, NWT Arctic Tourism is distributing updates to its membership including outfitters.

“It is essential that we get the message out that these protocols are in place and that we are open for business,” Mr. Antoine said. “We will continue to provide updated information to outfitters so that they are current with custom requirements. It is critical that our industry follow these protocols.”

There has been no disruption in the commercial export of musk-ox meat because harvests only occur in the winter months. However, new procedures may have to be established once the ban on the export of meat into the US is lifted.

For more information, contact:

Bob McLeod
Deputy Minister
Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development
Tel: (867) 920-8048

Minister Wants BSE Compensation to be Flexible

YELLOWKNIFE (June 16,2003) - Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development Jim Antoine is urging the federal government to ensure compensation for producers affected by the BSE outbreak in Western Canada is flexible enough to meet the needs of all businesses impacted.

Speaking at the emergency meeting of federal, provincial and territorial Ministers of Agriculture in Vancouver on Friday, Mr. Antoine noted that many businesses and producers beyond cattle producers are being impacted by the BSE outbreak.

“Northern producers of caribou and musk-ox meat products for export markets as well as outfitters are feeling the effect of the ban on meat products destined for the United States,” he said.

The Minister commended the Government of Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency on their handling of the BSE outbreak. “While we support the proposals to provide financial compensation to western producers, we want to ensure it is flexible,” he said.

He brought a similar message from the Nunavut Minister of Sustainable Development Olayuk Akesuk.

“We want to assure northern businesses that their concerns are being considered equally with those of western producers,” Mr. Antoine said.

For more information, contact:

Bob McLeod
Deputy Minster
Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development
Tel: (867) 920-8048

Waste Recovery and Reduction Act Introduced

YELLOWKNIFE (June 12, 2003) – New legislation, introduced this week by Minister of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development Jim Antoine, will pave the way for the recovery, reuse and recycling of materials throughout the Northwest Territories.

The proposed Waste Reduction and Recovery Act, developed in consultation with industry, environmental organizations and the public will, through the development of regulations, allow the Government of the Northwest Territories to establish programs to recover, recycle and reuse waste materials in NWT communities. When passed, it will also allow the GNWT to designate materials for recovery, collect deposits and provide refunds on materials such as beverage containers.

“This Bill reflects our commitment to the environment and the wise use of our resources,” Mr. Antoine said. “Our goal is to reduce the impact of these wastes on the northern environment, greenhouse gas emissions and the costs of handling garbage while increasing the lifespan of community landfill sites.”

The new legislation will allow for the establishment of an Environment Fund to finance recovery, reuse and recycling programs in NWT communities and for the enforcement of recovery programs.

“This legislation is designed to be flexible enough to allow recovery of different kinds of materials over time,” Mr. Antoine noted. “Research and experience in other parts of Canada show more jobs can be associated with recovery programs than with putting garbage in landfills.”

For more information, contact:

Bob McLeod
Deputy Minister
Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development
Tel: (867) 920-8048

Annual Report Shows Improved Air Quality

YELLOWKNIFE (June 4) - Minister of Resources Wildlife and Economic Development Jim Antoine marked Canada Clean Air Day today by releasing the 2001-2002 Annual Report on the state of air quality in the Northwest Territories.

The report, summarizing information collected on air quality since 1989, shows a continued improvement in air quality in Yellowknife with sulphur dioxide and arsenic concentrations at or close to background levels and dust readings the lowest in 10 years.

In Fort Liard, sulphur dioxide and hydrogen sulphide monitoring indicate no measurable effects in the community from natural gas exploration and development in the area.

While this is good news the Minister says it is critical that NWT residents remain vigilant. “All of us, as individuals and members of our communities, must make choices that help to create a cleaner and safer world for our families, future generations and ourselves,” he said.

Thanks to new partnerships with the Government of Canada and municipalities, the Northwest Territories has been able to establish a network of ‘state of the art’ air quality monitoring stations. The Government of the Northwest Territories has recently upgraded existing air quality monitoring stations in Yellowknife and Fort Laird and opened new stations in both Norman Wells and Inuvik.

Results from the expanded monitoring network will be reported in 2004.
The 2001-2002 Air Quality Report can be found on-line at:
http://www.enr.gov.nt.ca/eps/environ.htm

For more information, contact:

Emery Paquin
Director, Environment Division
Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development
Tel: (867) 873-7654