There is a lot on the line as members of the Black Lake First Nation in Northern Saskatchewan vote on a $300 million power project on the Fond du Lac River.
It has been in the works for years and has already received environmental approval, but band members have the final say.
Advance polls are open in Prince Albert on Friday, with the main vote slated for Nov. 18. There are about 2,000 registered members of the Black Lake First Nation.
The Black Lake First Nation would be a partner receiving about $3 million up front, with the potential of more than $1 billion in economic benefits over the next several decades. Construction could start as early as next fall if it is approved.
When complete it would generate enough electricity to power about 8,000 homes.
SaskPower spokesman Ted de Jong says “if the community votes no, the project will be cancelled and SaskPower will pursue other options to supply power for northern Saskatchewan.”
He adds, “all the time and money spent by the band and SaskPower on the project will have been wasted.”
De Jong says it would provide power to residents, businesses and industry in northern Saskatchewan over the next 90-plus years. Currently there is a shortage and SaskPower is forced to import electricity from hydro projects in Manitoba.
If approved, this would be the first new hydro project in Saskatchewan in 33 years, and the only one built entirely on reserve land. Power would be generated by diverting water through two turbines rather than building a dam.