The Nisga'a Nation legislature passed resolutions in support of the construction of B.C. Hydro's proposed Northwest Transmission line, which will pass through Nisga'a lands in northwest B.C.
The Nisga'a Nation has entered into a benefits agreement with B.C. Hydro for the construction or a portion of the $404-million line.
Agreements that accommodate First Nations' interest along the 335-kilometre power line are considered critical to getting the project off the ground.
The power line is touted as a catalyst to opening up northwest British Columbia to mining, as well as providing a connection for hydro-power projects.
The projects, if they get off the ground, are expected to have benefits for Prince George.
The transmission line contemplated two routes on its southern portion, the preferred western route through Nisga'a lands.
The benefits agreement endorses a right of way through Nisga'a lands and the establishment of a corridor through the Niga'a Memorial Lava Bed Park.
"Once the federal regulatory approvals have been received, the Nisga'a Nation will be prepared to grant rights of way that permit the Northwest Transmission Line to cross Nisga'a Lands," said Nisga'a Nation president Mitchell Stevens.
"We feel that the Benefits Agreement we have negotiated with BC Hydro will yield significant benefits to Nisga'a citizens not only during the construction of the transmission line but throughout its lifetime."
The agreement provides for financial benefits, contracting and economic opportunities, and a process for continuing consultation on the power line.
The Nisga'a settled a modern-day treaty in 2000 that gave the First Nation 2,000 square kilometres of land in the Nass Valley near Terrace, 400 kilometres west of Prince George.
The $404-million power line was approved by the B.C. government last week following an environmental assessment.
The federal government has already committed $130 million to the project, and Alberta-based AltaGas Income Trust is providing $180 million towards the power line.
