Tłı̨chǫ Environmental Regulation and Assessment Organizations
Tłı̨chǫ Lands Protection Section
The Tłı̨chǫ Lands Protection Section is responsible for managing the 39,000 km2 of Tłı̨chǫ-owned land, including its surface and subsurface resources. The department works closely with numerous environmental agencies, resource development companies and the Tłı̨chǫ Assembly to protect Tłı̨chǫ lands.
The title of this department was deliberately chosen to reflect the Tłı̨chǫ Government priority that the Tłı̨chǫ people will never be restricted from their traditional way of life.
Lands Protection is the “window” through which the Tłı̨chǫ Government directs all inquiries concerning Tłı̨chǫ lands, and where proposed activities and development are reviewed.
Wek’eezhii Land and Water Board (WLWB)
A co-management authority established by the Tłı̨chǫ modern treaty for land and water use decisions on Tłı̨chǫ lands, the Wek’eezhii Land and Water Board is responsible for regulating the use of land and water and the deposit of waste throughout Tłı̨chǫ lands. The WLWB manages the water licencing and land use permitting process, as well as providing for conservation, development and utilization of land and water resources.
Wek’eezhii Renewable Resources Board (WRRB)
A wildlife co-management organization established by the Tłı̨chǫ modern treaty, the Wek’eezhii Renewable Resources Board is responsible for:
- Wildlife management
- Commercial activities related to wildlife
- Forest management
- Plant management
- Protected Areas
The WRRB works collaboratively with Tłı̨chǫ communities, Indigenous, territorial and federal governments, regional renewable resources boards, and regulatory authorities such as the Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board (see below). Activities include reviewing proposals and applications, participating in working groups and committees, collaborating on research activities, and starting or supporting projects and programs.
