Indigenous Knowledge Braiding for New Nuclear Development

Project Description

As New Brunswick Power Corporation (NB Power) explores the future of sustainable energy through potential advanced small modular reactors (SMRs) and other new nuclear developments at the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station, a fundamental shift in methodology was required. Historically, major infrastructure projects in Canada were often developed without the meaningful inclusion of Indigenous perspectives. Recognizing the strategic importance of including Indigenous perspectives, SOAR Professional Services partnered with Dillon Consulting Limited to ensure that the development of future nuclear projects is rooted in a holistic understanding of the land—one that treats Indigenous Knowledge as equal to Western science.

SOAR is leading the critical process of Indigenous inclusion and the implementation of Indigenous Knowledge Braiding. This innovative approach involves gathering and braiding the stories, experiences, and traditional wisdom of the Wolastoqiyik/Wǝlastǝkwiyik with technical data. By conducting comprehensive terrestrial and aquatic baseline assessments, SOAR is documenting the current state of ecosystems on land and in water before any new development begins. This “braided” data provides a superior, multi-dimensional baseline that allows for more accurate measurement of future impacts and the creation of more resilient monitoring and prevention strategies.

SOAR is providing NB Power with a deeper environmental context than standard technical studies alone cannot achieve. This braided report not only helps to ensure regulatory and environmental rigor but also builds a foundation of trust and mutual respect between the utility provider and the individuals from the Indigenous communities involved in this project whose families have stewarded these lands and waters for generations.