The Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach invites community members to take part in a consultation on the proposed Northern Conservation Area (NCA) pilot project in Naskapi territory.
This consultation is an important step in a pilot process that will help shape how a Northern Conservation Area could be established, what its boundaries may look like, and what conservation objectives would guide it.
Meeting details
- Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2026
- Time: 1:30 to 4:30 pm
- Location: NCC
Refreshments and snacks will be provided.
What is a Northern Conservation Area (NCA)?
A Northern Conservation Area is a new conservation tool created under Québec’s Natural Heritage Conservation Act. It is designed to protect areas located north of the 49th parallel, while still allowing certain activities to take place.
Activities within an NCA must comply with clearly defined conservation objectives. Depending on those objectives, some development or land use activities may be authorized, with or without specific conditions. The formal process to designate NCAs is still being developed, which is why this pilot project is taking place.
About the pilot project
The Naskapi Nation is participating in a pilot project to help recommend Québec’s first Northern Conservation Area.
The goal of the pilot is to test the draft mechanism for designating NCAs and to assess how conservation objectives can work alongside potential projects and activities in Naskapi territory.
This work is being done in collaboration with Québec’s Ministry of the Environment, the Société du Plan Nord, and the Kativik Regional Government.
What will be discussed at the consultation
During the consultation, participants will be invited to:
- Review updates on the pilot project
- Examine maps showing the preliminary NCA delimitation
- Discuss proposed conservation objectives
- Share feedback, knowledge, and concerns
Community input at this stage is critical. Feedback gathered during this consultation will help guide the development of the final NCA recommendation.
Why your participation matters
The Northern Conservation Area would apply within Naskapi territory. Community knowledge, land use experience, and perspectives are essential to ensuring that any proposed conservation area reflects Naskapi values, priorities, and realities.
This consultation is an opportunity to ask questions, review information directly on maps, and contribute meaningfully to the process before any final recommendations are made.
For more information, please refer to the attached Pilot Project Fact Sheet or contact Billy Shecanapish.
We encourage all interested community members to attend and take part in the discussion.