Traditional Knowledge Panels

The Environmental Agreement states that EMAB can create special panels when an issue calls for the knowledge of Aboriginal elders. We've done so several times.

Fencing Panel (2004)

Fencing at the Diavik mine site is noted in the Comprehensive Study Report. Diavik committed to fencing key areas of the mine site if it proved necessary to protect wildlife, especially caribou.

EMAB brought together elders who spent three days together in March 2004. On the first day the panel visited the Colomac mine to tour the fencing around the tailings pond. Day two featured a visit to the Diavik mine to view the various areas that might require fencing. Finally, on day three, the elders discussed which areas needed to be fenced and what type of fencing should be used.

Traditional Knowledge Panel on Fencing
Summary of Recommendations

No Net Loss Panel

The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) developed a policy to make sure that any fish habitat that is lost to a development project is replaced. Diavik's fisheries authorizations require that three undisturbed mainland lakes be enhanced.

The panel spent two days discussing ways that Diavik could implement DFO's policy in a manner that is workable within a Northern environment. Elders shared their knowledge about fish habitat.

In 2002, EMAB recommended that DFO and Diavik figure out a way to replace habitat without modifying undisturbed lakes. The government department and Diavik are still trying to find a way to do that.

Traditional Knowledge Panel Workshop on Implementation of the DFO Policy for the Management of Fish Habitat Final Report.