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The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is suing Manitoba Hydro and the Government of Manitoba, seeking to have Lake Winnipeg recognized as a living entity with rights and protections.
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This unprecedented Charter challenge aims to address the lake’s declining health due to decades of management practices.
“Now she is dying as Manitoba Hydro profits,” said SCO Grand Chief Jerry Daniels. “It is time for us all to stand up for Lake Winnipeg and say no more. We must change our ways to save her life.”
The lawsuit was filed in the Court of King’s Bench, highlighting how artificial control of water levels has harmed Lake Winnipeg’s — traditionally known as Weeniibiikiisagaygun — ecosystem. Wetlands are declining, fish are unhealthy, and invasive species have proliferated. First Nations are asserting their rights, claiming ongoing violations related to the lake’s management.
“Weeniibiikiisagaygun is suffering, and she is sick,” said elder Mary Maytwayashing. “It is our responsibility to speak on behalf of Lake Winnipeg as she is unable to speak for herself.”
The lawsuit asserts that for nearly 50 years, Manitoba Hydro has managed lake levels through the Lake Winnipeg Regulation Project without conducting a comprehensive environmental assessment. The SCO is demanding such an assessment be performed and that First Nations be involved in the process.
“A report by the Clean Environment Commission found that Manitoba Hydro did not properly consider environmental protection and climate change in its operations,” said Daniels. “It’s time to make things right.”
This story will be updated.
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