Trans Mountain has proposed an expansion of its current 1,150-kilometre pipeline. This line runs between Strathcona County, Alberta and Burnaby, BC. If approved, this pipeline would increase the normal capacity of the system from 300,000 barrels per day to 890,000 barrels per day. In Alberta, this pipeline crosses massive areas within the Treaty 6 territory, Treaty 8 traditional territory and the Metis Nation of Alberta (Zone 4).
One September 3, 2014 a hearing was held by the National Energy Board between Trans Mountain and various First Nations. Samson Cree Nation (SCN) attended and was given an opportunity to voice concerns specific to this project. Ten (10) elders, custodians of knowledge and monitors accompanied Norrine Saddleback, Samson Cree Nation Consultation Coordinator. A major concern between the speakers representing Samson Cree Nation was the contamination of traditional lands this pipeline causes. Concerns of disappearing herbs and wild life and continued contamination of the Battle River along the pipeline from cumulative impacts were addressed.
The National Energy Board will take into consideration the information provided by Samson Cree Nation and other First Nations when making the decision on this proposed expansion project. The legal team advised that SCN was ‘one of the best presentations’. Consultation is humbly appreciative of all participants and to Chief and Council for this opportunity.