A project fact sheet in Naskapi language about the Northern Conservation Area (NCA), explaining its purpose, the pilot project, and steps involved. The document describes an initiative to establish an NCA in Naskapi territory under Québec’s Natural Heritage Conservation Act, preserving areas north of the 49th parallel while allowing certain activities. The pilot project aims to test the designation mechanism and assess compatibility with potential projects. Steps include community consultations, data collection, selecting boundaries, and submitting recommendations. The bottom section announces a community consultation on March 26, 2025, from 1:30 to 5:00 pm at NCC, inviting participation in an interactive mapping exercise. The layout features a green, white, and blue color scheme, a map of the proposed area, a scenic aerial photo, and Indigenous-inspired design elements.
A project fact sheet for the Northern Conservation Area (NCA), explaining its purpose, the pilot project, and steps involved. The document describes an initiative to establish an NCA in Naskapi territory under Québec’s Natural Heritage Conservation Act. The pilot project aims to test the designation mechanism and assess compatibility with potential projects. Steps include community consultations, data collection, and selecting boundaries. The bottom section announces a community consultation on March 26, 2025, from 1:30 to 5:00 pm at NCC, inviting community members to participate in an interactive mapping exercise. The layout features a green, white, and blue color scheme, with a map, a scenic aerial photo, and Indigenous-inspired design elements.

The Naskapi Nation is embarking on an exciting initiative to establish the first Northern Conservation Area (NCA) in Naskapi territory. This effort is part of a larger framework under Quebec’s Natural Heritage Conservation Act, which aims to protect lands north of the 49th parallel while allowing certain sustainable activities.

What is an NCA?

A Northern Conservation Area (NCA) is a newly developed conservation tool designed to preserve the ecological integrity of northern landscapes. Unlike traditional conservation areas, NCAs permit certain activities that align with predefined conservation objectives and zoning regulations. The Quebec government is developing a mechanism to formally designate these areas, ensuring that future activities comply with sustainable land-use practices.

The Pilot Project: A Step Toward Conservation

The Naskapi Nation is leading a pilot project to test the feasibility of establishing an NCA within its territory. This initiative will assess the compatibility of conservation efforts with potential development projects and traditional land use.

To achieve this, the Naskapi Nation is collaborating with the Quebec Ministry of the Environment, Société du Plan Nord, and the Kativik Regional Government. Together, they aim to ensure that conservation efforts align with the needs and values of the Naskapi people while maintaining the region’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

Steps in the Process

The project involves several key steps:

  • Holding a community consultation to gather input from local residents and stakeholders.
  • Proposing potential conservation areas and objectives to an interministerial committee.
  • Conducting aerial surveys to collect data on selected areas.
  • Evaluating and selecting the most suitable location for an NCA.
  • Engaging the community in discussions about zoning and boundary considerations.
  • Determining measures to ensure harmonization of activities within the protected area.
  • Submitting final recommendations for formal recognition of the NCA.

Get Involved: Community Consultation

One of the most crucial aspects of this project is ensuring that the Naskapi community has a voice in the process. A community consultation meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 26, 2025, from 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM at the NCC. This interactive session will provide an opportunity for community members to learn more about NCAs, share their perspectives, and participate in a mapping exercise to identify areas of interest in Nuchimiyuschiiy.

Your input is invaluable in shaping the future of conservation in our territory. If you have any questions or need more information, please contact Billy Shecanapish.

Together, we can ensure that the land we cherish remains protected for future generations while supporting sustainable development and traditional practices.