Together building a resilient

Cat Lake Bio-Economy

Cat Lake First Nation’s Bio-Economy Project supports a shared vision for community-led development that balances environmental, cultural, social, and economic priorities while creating a sustainable future.

"Niigaan Bimaadiziwin"
- A Future Life

Three Pillars of Development

STEWARD THE LAND

  • Stewardship
  • Sustainable management
  • Traditional knowledge

CREATE OPPORTUNITIES

  • Forestry
  • Mining partnerships
  • Energy initiatives
  • All-season road access

GROW THE WORKFORCE

  • Skills training and education
  • Employment
  • Knowledge sharing
  • Leadership
  • Community partnerships

A Road Providing

All-Season Access

To Opportunity

Why An All-Season Access Road Matters

Building an all-season access road creates opportunities, improves safety, food security and strengthens Cat Lake First Nation for generations to come.

ACCESS

Improves access to resources, goods, services, and markets all-year round.

JOBS

Creates local and accessible jobs, building new skills in the community toolbox.

INVESTMENT

Attracts investment and supports business, partnerships, and resource development.

COMMUNITY BENEFITS

Provides safer year-round travel, supports emergency response and evacuations, and builds a stronger, healthier, self-reliant community.

Building Careers For The Future

The Bio-Economy Project will improve the economy while equipping community members with the skills, certifications and experience that support long-term careers.

Pathways to...

LAND & FOREST OPERATIONS

Forest Ranger

Lands and Resources Technician

Heavy Equipment Operator

FOREST TECHNOLOGY

Drone Education

Forestry Technician

GIS

Young Professional

ENERGY AND CLIMATE LEADERSHIP

Energy Education

Energy Technician or Youth Energy Champion

Community Energy Champion

Guided by Our Elders

PAST, PRESENT, & FUTURE

The Bio-Economy Project is informed by the vision, community values and traditional knowledge of our Elders. The power and success of the project lies in the hands we hold together.

Where Are We Now?

Establishing our natural resources team

Updating forest inventory

Engaging with partners

Opened the Far North Natural Resources office

“A sensible and practical option toward sustainable growth and development.”
“We’re looking at all-season roads for infrastructure and looking for ways to create an economy for the community.”

Chief Russell Wesley of Cat Lake First Nation

2026 Recipient of: