Footprints to Follow: Release of Case Study Catalogue – Aboriginal Waterpower Development and Ownership in Ontario

Press Release

(September 24, 2014, Peterborough, ON) The Ontario Waterpower Association (OWA) is pleased to announce the release of an educational tool, case study catalogue, focused on current Aboriginal capacity building in Ontario waterpower projects. ‘Footprints to Follow’ describes nine (9) waterpower projects that have significant Aboriginal ownership and participation. Each project represents a different and unique approach to facility development.

“We have learned over time that one of the best ways to build capacity is to share experiences,” said Paul Norris, OWA President. “These projects demonstrate the growing synergy between our industry and First Nation partners.”

The OWA has long recognized the importance of positive and productive relationships with Aboriginal communities and organizations. The catalogue outlines case examples across a spectrum of waterpower development. Each project and partnership is extremely distinctive. Individually, they provide case examples of successes. Collectively, they can serve to inform approaches to future projects.
Pictures provided by AXOR Group Inc.

“Ontario is fortunate to have significant untapped waterpower potential,” added Norris. “In the north in particular realizing this potential will undoubtedly involve the growing participation of Aboriginal communities.”

Aboriginal partners and proponents taking this long-term endeavor are realizing the multigenerational opportunity to support local capacity development, training, job creation and community growth. Revenue generated from waterpower development can be reinvested in the project to increase the level of ownership, used for other community needs such as housing and infrastructure development, or investing in other economic opportunities.

To view Footprints to Follow please CLICK HERE

In 2012 the OWA release of the documentary “Our Heritage, Our Future – the Kapuskasing River Waterpower Project.” The documentary chronicles the development of multi relationships between three First Nation groups; Brunswick House First Nation, Chapleau Ojibwe First Nation, Chapleau Cree First Nation; the developer Hydromega and the town of Kapuskasing.

Ontario Northern Boreal and Far North Land Use Planning Development will be featured at the 2014 Power of Water Canada Conference, scheduled October 19th – 21st at the White Oaks Resort, located in

Niagara-on-the Lake. For more information on the Power of Water Canada conference, please visit http://conference.owa.ca

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For more information, please contact:

Stephanie Landers, Communication and Public Outreach Coordinator
Ontario Waterpower Association
1-866-743-1500
slanders@owa.ca

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