FIRST NATIONS

Columbia Power Corporation (Columbia Power) and Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) are sensitive to traditional land uses and common concerns with First Nations people in the Columbia Basin. Different Columbia Basin First Nations groups are involved in many aspects of the power project activities.

There are several First Nations groups who claim traditional territory within the organizations' project area including: Okanagan Nation, Shuswap Nation and the Ktunaxa Nation. Keeping these First Nations groups informed and involved in the planning of projects is a priority for the Partners.

While Columbia Power and CBT do not address issues related to aboriginal title, they do ensure that First Nations are involved early in all aspects of planning related to proposed projects.

Columbia Power and CBT are involved with First Nations issues such as traditional use and archaeological studies. As a result of Columbia Power and CBT commitments, First Nations have received benefits such as:

• employment
• training & skills development
• bursaries
• apprenticeships
• support for Canadian Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fisheries Commission
• opportunities for involvement in project planning
• environmental protection