The other subject that I got to discuss in depth with the important people today was this new trail in. I call it a trail for ease of describing it for anyone not familiar with winter roads, but it is actually going to be a road. It is simply a route carved out of the bush and over creeks and rivers and is often far straighter than any normal road. For a 2-3 month period it is as safe and smooth as a paved hiway.

At any rate the road has some serious implications here, mainly from the way it's being done;

The road crosses an area that is traditionally hunted and trapped by the Marten Falls Native community, and as such any disruption of the area must be approved by them.

This road has been put through by the local band at Marten Falls. The intention is that they will control it. They will organize freight coming in by cat train including all fuel necessary by all companies working in the area. They will organize getting heavy equioment brought in, and they will build and manage the airstrip. The above will be funded mostly by the involved companies and hopefully with help from dept northern affairs, etc. This will serve many purposes but mainly will result in needed cooperation from the concerned bands and their members. Apparently there is a meeting to be held within the next 10 days with gov't officials and all concerned parties. Very interesting discussion.