Webequie First Nation, June 9, 2025 – Webequie First Nation, the closest community to the Ring of Fire in Northern Ontario, has released the draft Environmental Assessment / Impact Statement (EAR/IS) for the proposed Webequie Supply Road (WSR). The early release invites 22 Indigenous communities to take part in a 60-day exclusive review, ahead of the public comment period this summer.
This marks a pivotal step in Webequie’s Indigenous-led consultation strategy, offering extended time and support to review the EAR/IS before broader release.
Chief Cornelius Wabasse emphasized:
“This report is a tool for Webequie First Nation and neighbouring Indigenous communities to fully understand the project footprint and its opportunities… informed by our values, knowledge, and lived experience.”
“Our vision is a road that brings jobs, skills training, and economic opportunities home—while remaining deeply connected to our land and traditions.”
🛣️ Project Overview: Webequie Supply Road (WSR)
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Total length: ~107 km, including 17 km on Webequie reserve lands
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Design: Two-lane, all-season road access from Webequie to the Ring of Fire
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Infrastructure: 31 water crossings (6 bridges, 25 culverts), pits, quarries, and a permanent maintenance facility
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Benefits: Local jobs, youth training, business development, long-term economic independence
📘 Draft EAR/IS Report Highlights
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Recognized as one of the most comprehensive environmental assessments in the region
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Incorporates both Indigenous knowledge and Western science, reflecting input from 22 First Nations, the public, and government agencies
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Consultation followed Webequie’s Three-Tier Model, respecting cultural values and protocols
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Engagement formats included community meetings, open houses, online forums, newsletters, and Indigenous Knowledge sessions
✔️ Early Indigenous Review Period
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60-day exclusive review open now for affected Indigenous nations
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Offers enhanced time and support to engage with mitigation strategies
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Public and Indigenous review to begin later in summer 2025
🌿 Safeguarding Culture & Ecology
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The draft safeguards land, water, wildlife, and cultural heritage, with detailed monitoring and follow-up plans
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Aligns with Webequie’s commitment to environmental stewardship and cultural respect
🌟 Economic & Skills Development
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WSR aims to be more than a road—a tool for community-driven growth
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Webequie is preparing skills training and capacity-building programs for youth and local workers
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Ensures that long-term employment, business opportunities, and training stay within the community
📚 Background: Webequie First Nation & WSR
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Population: Approximately 971 members
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Geography: Remote fly-in / winter-road access only
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WSR will provide permanent road access to future Ring of Fire developments
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Webequie has received provincial and federal support for Indigenous-led environmental review, including funding since 2019
Learn more & participate:
Visit ➡️ www.supplyroad.ca/draftEA
