Close Working Relationships
Columbia Power values our close working relationships with our First Nations partners. We are conscious of traditional land uses and concerns with First Nations people in the Columbia Basin. Keeping First Nations groups informed and involved in the planning of projects is a priority for Columbia Power. Different First Nations groups are involved in many aspects of project activities.
There are several First Nations groups who claim traditional territory within the Columbia Basin area including the Okanagan Nation Alliance, the Shuswap Nation and the Ktunaxa Nation.
Columbia Power is committed to providing opportunities for our First Nations partners including a First Nations sponsorship program, employment and apprentice opportunities, training and skills development and opportunities for involvement during project planning and construction.
First Nations workers and apprentices have been involved on all three of Columbia Power’s major construction projects. To maximize opportunities for First Nations workers, The Waneta Expansion Project employed a First Nation worker liaison.
Nupqu, a contracting company wholly owned by the Ktunaxa, completed logging and clearing for the 10 km transmission line that is part of the Waneta Expansion Project. YUCWMENLUCWU (Caretakers of the Land), a standalone Forest Management Company wholly owned by Splatsin Nation, was awarded the contract for the Edgewood Boat Launch Improvement Project located in Eagle Creek Provincial Park, very close to the community of Edgewood.
Columbia Power also participates in cultural events and educational programs and liaises between First Nations, the academic community and industry.