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Groups considering whether to establish a new national park in the Teetł’it Gwinjik or Peel River watershed are asking for the public’s input.
The Gwich’in Tribal Council, First Nation of Nacho Nyak Dun, Parks Canada and Yukon government said in April 2024 they were exploring the possibility of a new national park in part of the watershed.
The groups are undertaking a feasibility assessment that they said will include in-depth consultation with Indigenous rights-holders and the public.
To that end, they launched a survey on the proposed park earlier this week. People can also participate by contacting the parties to share their thoughts.
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The consultation period will close on March 17.
The group said the feasibility study will determine whether establishing a national park would be desirable and practical, and will also decide a proposed boundary. If the parties agree to move forward, the next stage would be to negotiate an establishment agreement for the park.
The Peel River watershed is located in northeast Yukon, next to the Yukon-NWT border. The area is largely undisturbed, with few roads, limited development and no permanent residents.
The groups said a national park in the area could protect the ecosystem, advance Indigenous-led conservation, ensure cultural practices continue and support land-based economies, among other potential benefits.
