ATCO Pipelines has been working with Samson Consultation on the Southern Extension Project since 2009. The Vintage Southern Extension Transmission pipeline, which was installed in 1945/46, runs through Samson Cree Nation and Ermineskin Cree Nation. It is now coming to the end of it’s useful life.
Due to deterioration, it poses risks of contamination to the water and environment surrounding the pipeline. Phase 1 of the project consisted of a traditional land use study. This was completed by Samson Consultation, ATCO Pipelines, local elders and the Lands Department. Phase 2 will commence in August. In this phase a replacement pipeline will be installed. Phase 3 will follow with the removal of the Vintage Southern Extension Transmission pipeline, and phase 4 is reclamation.
ATCO Pipelines has contributed $5000.00 to the Samson Celebration each year since this partnership had formed. They also make contributions toward the Samson Education Trust Fund. The first annual payment, an approximate amount of $20, 500.00, from ATCO Pipelines to Samson Cree Nation was made last month. This annual payment will fluctuate each year as per gas prices.