The Government of the Northwest Territories is offering funding to organizations to help families get out on the land. The program is designed to help offset the costs of participating in land-based experiences like camping, boating, fishing, hunting, and traditional activities, so more Northerners can get involved.
Residents are reminded that Jackfish Lake, located in Yellowknife on Highway 3, continues to have elevated levels of arsenic and harmful algae. The water is not safe for swimming, fishing, or other recreational use. Updated warning signage will be installed around Jackfish Lake within the next couple of weeks.
Harmful Algal Blooms (Cyanobacteria):
The Department of Environment and Climate Change (ECC) has confirmed two cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), otherwise known as bird flu, in a raven and a ring-billed gull in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories . ECC will continue to conduct additional testing on any potential cases of HPAI should they occur. There have been 9 confirmed cases of HPAI in birds in the Northwest Territories since 2022.
Minister Jay Macdonald issued the following statement for World Environment Day.
“Today, on World Environment Day, we are reminded of the profound connection between the land, water, and people of the Northwest Territories. It is a day to reaffirm our commitment to conservation, climate resilience, and Indigenous-led stewardship, positioning the North as a global leader in environmental protection.
The Northwest Territories Cumulative Impact Monitoring Program (NWT CIMP) is providing $2.2 million in 2025-26 to support 29 new and ongoing monitoring and research projects.
Of the 29 projects funded, seven are focused on traditional knowledge, 21 are science focused, and one combines traditional knowledge and science. All these projects address key cumulative impact monitoring priorities for caribou, water and/or fish. Project results will provide valuable knowledge for natural resource managers, governments, and communities to inform decision-making.
The attached release is being distributed on behalf of the Species at Risk Committee.
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Mr. Speaker, today I want to talk about the Government of the Northwest Territories’ new approach to addressing climate change. From community resilience to economic opportunities, the challenges posed by climate change are urgent, complex, and interconnected with many other aspects of life here in the Northwest Territories. That is why the GNWT is moving to a joint approach that brings together climate change and energy strategies, with the aim of taking more efficient, coherent, and impactful actions across government.
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Mr. Speaker, the 2025 wildfire season is now underway, and our team is ready to respond.
Response is just one part of the equation. Readiness and preparedness are equally critical. Following the 2023 season, the GNWT has enhanced its wildfire management program through strategic investments and initiatives. Today, I will update Members on the investments we have made that are helping us build a more prepared and resilient territory.
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) thanks the outgoing members of the Climate Change Youth Council’s first-ever cohort. Recruitment is now open for a new two-year Youth Council group, with applications due May 28.
The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has released the Community-Based Water Quality Monitoring (CBM) 10-Year Summary Report. This report provides a comprehensive overview of over a decade’s worth of data and insights into Northwest Territories’ (NWT) water quality.
A collaborative effort between governments, community stakeholders, and environmental experts, the report summarizes scientific findings, making water quality results accessible to residents and policymakers.
Key highlights include:
