In August 2026, the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, with Cabinet approval, approved the Marten Falls First Nation Community Access Road Project to proceed.
In August 2026, the Government of Canada issued its Decision Statement for the Project under the Impact Assessment Act. The federal Minister of Environment determined that the Project is in the public interest.
Learn more about the MECP's Notice of Approval and IAAC's Decision Statement.
Message from the Chief
Bruce Achneepineskum
On behalf of Marten Falls First Nation Council
Boozhoo,
Monday, August 31, marked the beginning of a new chapter for Marten Falls First Nation. That day, we received approval to move forward with the construction of the Community Access Road, an important milestone that our community has worked toward for many years. This decision reflects the vision, determination and leadership of generations of Marten Falls First Nation members who worked toward creating a permanent, year-round connection between our community and the provincial highway network.
This decision also reflects years of planning, technical studies, dialogue and collaboration. Throughout the environmental assessment process, we worked with neighbouring First Nations, government agencies, technical specialists and others to better understand potential effects and identify ways to protect the lands, waters, wildlife and ways of life that are important to our people. We also worked with our members and Elders to integrate our traditional knowledge of our lands and water ways, making for a stronger environmental assessment. We are grateful to everyone who shared their knowledge, perspectives and time. Those contributions helped shape this road and the path forward.
The Community Access Road is about more than transportation. It is about helping to reduce the challenges of living in a remote community and creating new opportunities for our people. Reliable, year-round access will strengthen connections to healthcare, education, essential services and affordable goods. Through strong leadership and community determination, we have pursued opportunities that support the health, well-being and prosperity of our members while respecting our culture, traditions and relationship with the land.
This decision allows us to begin building this long-awaited road. As we move forward, we remain committed to maintaining open and respectful dialogue with neighbouring First Nations and others who have an interest. We will continue to share information, listen and work together as construction proceeds.
The Community Access Road represents hope, connection and opportunity. It reflects the aspirations of our members and Elders, the dedication of our leadership, and the dreams we hold for future generations. This decision brings us closer to a future where our community is better connected, more resilient and positioned to thrive.
We look forward to the benefits this road will bring to our members, our families and the generations that follow.
Miigwetch,
Chief Bruce Achneepineskum
Marten Falls First Nation
Questions?
Contact us if you have any questions about the Project or the Assessment Process.
Contact the Community Access Road Team directly at
eaisinput@martenfallsaccessroad.ca
If you require a Marten Falls First Nation Community Access Road Final Environmental Assessment/Impact Statement document in an alternate format or are in need of communications support, please submit a request by calling our telephone numbers below:
- 1-800-764-9114 Toll-Free Number
Once your request is received, our team will contact you to provide you with additional information on when you can expect a response, based on the document and format you are requesting.
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