For Immediate Release
May 19, 2015
Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nation, Treaty 6 – The following statement was released by the Chief & Council of the Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nation regarding the release of treated effluent into Duck Lake:
“Our Council appreciates the concerns expressed by Band Members regarding the recent release of treated effluent by the Town of Duck Lake into the body of water known as Duck Lake.
We have met with town officials to discuss the matter and relay our concerns. We had honest and positive discussions regarding the way forward.
Specifically, we agreed:
- The release of treated effluent from their lagoon poses little risk to the health and safety of Band Members and the local eco-system. This has been confirmed by the provincial Water Security Agency. See their letter here.
- We have agreed that our Council must be consulted and our approval must be obtained prior to any future release of excess treated effluent into Duck Lake.
- We have agreed that any future request for release of treated effluent must also detail the quantity of and duration of the release.
- We have agreed that members of both communities must be informed by way of an advisory prior to any future release occurring.
- We indicated our support to the Town of Duck Lake to seek provincial assistance in remedying their lagoon issues.
- We offered additional suggestions on possible options for the drainage of their lagoon.
We thank all band members who voiced their concerns and look forward to continued positive relations with the Town of Duck Lake.
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For more information, please contact:
Chief & Council Communications, Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nation
306.467.4523 | communications@beardysband.com
