Project and Community Engagement

Unify worked alongside Cheslatta Carrier Nation to support a multi-year initiative advancing clean energy, food sovereignty, and community resilience–initiated to address the long-term impacts of displacement caused by the Kenney Dam and the flooding of Cheslatta territories. The initiative was driven by Cheslatta’s leadership and long-standing priorities around rebuilding infrastructure, restoring economic independence, and strengthening community-led pathways forward.

The work was driven by engagement with Cheslatta members and staff, including both on- and off-reserve voices. Conversations included information sharing and questions regarding energy autonomy, land stewardship, and self-determination. Our role was to support these conversations by being present in community, building relationships, and helping translate priorities into actionable pathways while respecting existing governance and leadership.

Adding Capacity to Support Long-term Goals

Working closely with Cheslatta’s economic development team, we supported the development of an integrated approach connecting clean energy, food systems, asset acquisition, and infrastructure renewal.

This included technical support for renewable energy and natural solutions planning to assess potential projects, implementation pathways and feasibility work, and partnership structures. Additionally, we provided business development services for further economic development initiatives in the tourism and forestry sectors. We worked alongside Cheslatta to coordinate with partners such as BC Hydro and Parks Canada, and to navigate funding pathways and applications across regional and federal programs.

Throughout the process, a key focus was supporting local capacity; ensuring that planning efforts translated into skills development, workforce opportunities, and increased community ownership of future projects. This work was built on the strength of Cheslatta’s own team, providing additional tools and support to advance their long-term vision.

Together, this project contributed to a strong foundation for continued progress–supporting Cheslatta Carrier Nation in advancing energy independence, strengthening food systems, and continuing the work of rebuilding and renewal on their own terms.

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Cheslatta Industrial Park Concept