An interim injunction from the Court of King’s Bench has temporarily stopped Mackenzie County from bulldozing two former oil and gas winter roads to Bistcho and Thurston lakes. The order comes after the Dene Tha’ First Nation said it was not consulted when the Government of Alberta transferred control of parts of the Bistcho Lake road to the county.
The First Nation has launched a broader lawsuit, arguing the transfer was незакон and aimed at opening the remote এলাকa to public recreation. Leaders say that could harm treaty rights tied to traditional land use.
Chief Wilfred Hooka-Nooza welcomed the pause, calling Bistcho Lake a vital cultural and subsistence area protected under Treaty 8. He says increased access for tourism and outfitters could disrupt their way of life.
The province confirmed the transfer took place in March 2025 without consultation.
Keith Hopper, Trending 55
