Deh Cho
Warmer weather means bears are coming out of hibernation to roam.
As such, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) in the Deh Cho region is encouraging residents to use its emergency wildlife line when necessary.
“It’s that time of year again and bears are now active,” stated a bulletin from the department.
“Please call ENR to report any wildlife emergencies, problem wildlife and wildlife sightings within village limits.”
The phone number – 867-695-7433 – is active between May 1 and Sept. 30.
There are five administrative regions – Inuvik, Sahtu, Dehcho, North Slave, South Slave – of the department in the territory, each with its own wildlife emergency number.
– Erin Steele
‘Massive’ community yard sale in the works
Deh Gah Got’ie Koe/Fort Providence
Fort Providence ought to be abuzz with activity May 27, so long as community members participate and the weather holds out.
The community yard sale aims to have participating residents hold sales outside their homes on that Sunday, beginning at 12 p.m.
“A list of sellers and their address will be distributed to (the) public prior to the sale,” stated a bulletin advertising the initiative.
In the Facebook post advertising the initiative, organizers urge participation.
“Hopefully by doing a massive community yard sale, it would entice (out-of-town) people to come over and shop – the more the merrier!”
– Erin Steele
Spring cleanup in Simpson
Liidlii Kue/Fort Simpson
It’s spring cleanup time in Fort Simpson with a couple upcoming events to say ‘bye’ to winter and ‘hello’ to summer.
A community cleanup is scheduled for Saturday, May 26.
Also, large item pick-up will be happening May 24, 25, 31 and June 1.
For community members meaning to take things to the dump for their spring-cleaning efforts at home, tipping fees are waived through May 31.
For large item pickup, community members are asked to call ahead to the hamlet office.
– Erin Steele
Election coming up
Deline/Fort Franklin
The first step toward electing a new main council of the Deline Got’ine Government kicks off June 1.
Notice was recently given for an electors of the Deline K’aowedo Ke meeting, beginning at 9 a.m.
“The purpose of this meeting is to nominate candidates for the positions of chief and councillors for the next ensuing term of office,” stated its bulletin.
There are six councillor and one chief position available.
The Deline Got’ine Government stems from a historic combination of Deline First Nation, Deline Land Corporation and Charter Community of Deline into one government on Sept. 1, 2016.
There are several Deline Got’ine Government councils, which all deal with different things.
Deline K’aowedo Ke runs the government and passes laws.
“Interested candidates are required to attend this meeting and give a brief speech explaining their reasons for wanting to be elected,” stated the bulletin.
If there are enough nominations, the election will be held July 11, with an advance poll June 27.
– Erin Steele
Tense time along Mackenzie
Tthek'ehdeli/Jean Marie River
Jean Marie River First Nation is commending its residents for their response to the threat of flooding over Mother’s Day Weekend.
“Today exemplifies the meaning of community and the leadership of all who stepped up!” reads a statement from the band, posted on Facebook.
Beginning on Friday and into Saturday, the Mackenzie River rose to the point that had community members fearing the worst.
But by early Sunday morning, water levels had dropped again.
“The community really supported one another, came together as a unit and cared for each other during a time of potential crisis,” the band stated.
“Kudos to all of you, you deserve a pat on the back!”
– Erin Steele
Camping season kicks off
NWT
Campgrounds around the territory began welcoming overnight visitors on May 11, according to the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment.
As of June 1, all campgrounds will be open and ready for visitors.
Several of the campgrounds and parks have received upgrades prior to the season.
Blackstone Territorial Park on the Liard River now has a new overnight facility, available to rent.
Also, there’s a temporary washroom facility at Fort Providence Territorial Park while the existing washrooms are being repaired.
Several of the parks around Yellowknife were also upgraded.
That includes a new 15-site loop at Prelude Lake Territorial Park.
– Erin Steele