Oil Drilling Pad Authorization - 7-Well Site on Indigenous Land
Official title: OS-7262 Authorization to Construct and Operate a Surface Lease for a multiwell oil pad
An oil company wants to build a 2.1-hectare drilling pad to operate up to 7 oil wells on Indigenous land. The site was chosen to avoid wetlands and fish-bearing waters. Once the wells stop producing, the company must restore the land before giving up the lease.
Why This Matters
This project affects Indigenous lands managed by Indigenous Services Canada. If you live in the area or have ties to this land, the drilling could impact local ecosystems and land use for years. The company says wetlands won't be directly affected, but long-term oil operations always carry environmental risks.
What Could Change
If approved, the company can drill up to 7 oil wells on a single 2.1-hectare pad. The lease runs for the entire operating life of the wells. Decommissioning and land reclamation will be required before the lease ends.
Key Issues
- Should the surface lease for a 7-well oil drilling pad be authorized?
- Are the environmental protections for wetlands and waterbodies adequate?
Indigenous Consultation
This consultation requires engagement with Indigenous communities under the Crown's duty to consult.