Public Notice

Notice of intent to make a determination

Thunderchild First Nation Powwow Arbor – Public Comments Invited

September 3, 2024 – Indigenous Services Canada must determine whether the proposed Thunderchild First Nation Powwow Arbor is likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects. To help inform this determination, Indigenous Services Canada is inviting comments from the public respecting that determination.

Written comments must be submitted by October 3, 2024 to:
Indigenous Services Canada
Alvin Hamilton Building, 1783 Hamilton Street
Regina, SK  S4P 2B6
Email: isc-skenv@sac-isc.gc.ca

The Proposed Project

Thunderchild First Nation is proposing to construct a new powwow arbor to meet the long-term needs of the Nation and guests. In 2022/23 the traditional powwow grounds was deemed in need of immediate dismantling, and as such, the well-used and historical powwow arbor was removed for safety reasons. A temporary powwow facility was established to accommodate the delivery of the annual July powwow in 2023, but does not meet the long-term needs of the Nation and guests.

The new powwow arbor will be built at a diameter of approximately 49 metres and have an area of approximately 1,994 square metres with seating to comfortably accommodate up to 1,200 guests, and space to host 600 dancers with the option for future construction of an enclosed roof system. The proposed updated arbor facility will allow Thunderchild First Nation to host gatherings for ceremonies. The gatherings at the arbor will help to bring people together from the Nation, neighboring Nations, and the international community to celebrate and strengthen culture, language and traditions.