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Mr. Speaker, climate change is seriously affecting the Northwest Territories. It’s impacting our communities, people, nature, and infrastructure. The Government of Northwest Territories (GNWT) is working hard to tackle these challenges. We are focusing on teamwork, especially with Indigenous knowledge, to help our communities adapt and thrive.
In the past year, we’ve made great progress alongside Indigenous governments and local organizations on climate adaptation projects. Together, we’ve identified urgent climate risks and started to find practical solutions. We’re sharing important information to help residents and protect our environment.
One key part of our work is flood mapping. Recent floods in our region show us just how crucial these maps are. The Department of Environment and Climate Change is teaming up with the NWT Centre for Geomatics, with support from the federal government, to create updated flood maps for ten communities that are at risk. So far, we have draft maps for Hay River, the Kátł’odeeche First Nation Reserve, Fort Simpson, and Aklavik. We’re also working on Fort Good Hope and Nahanni Butte. In the coming years, we will start mapping Jean Marie River, Fort Liard, Fort McPherson, and Tulita. Once these maps are complete, they will be vital for planning our communities and responding to emergencies.
Mr. Speaker, we are also tackling the problem of extreme water level changes. Over the last five years, we’ve seen water levels swing from record highs to lows, affecting transportation, hydroelectric power, public safety, and harvesting practices. To address this, the GNWT has expanded its water monitoring efforts. We are partnering with researchers and sharing important updates through monthly bulletins. Recently, our team met regularly with Marine Transportation Services to share vital data for planning the coming barge season. Our ongoing monitoring of snow and climate will help us understand how climate change affects northern water systems.
Planning for adaptation is another big focus for us. We are working closely with Indigenous governments, community leaders, and federal agencies to assess climate-related risks in housing, infrastructure, ecosystems, and health. Some recent projects include creating hazard maps for high-risk areas and studying the impacts of permafrost. We are integrating Indigenous knowledge deeply into our plans for resilience.
Mr. Speaker, with support from federal funding and partnerships with universities like the University of Victoria and Royal Roads University, we are creating new opportunities for people in the North. We are developing training programs so that communities can build skills for climate adaptation. This empowers residents to respond effectively to the challenges that climate change presents.
These initiatives are delivering real benefits. Updated flood maps and enhanced water monitoring are improving safety and preparedness in our communities. A greater understanding of climate issues strengthens decision-making. By including Indigenous knowledge, our approach is more comprehensive and reflective of our northern values.
Mr. Speaker, our actions today are key to building resilience against climate change. We are dedicated to ensuring a sustainable future for all residents of the Northwest Territories.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
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