TAYLOR -- A proposed compressor station south of Taylor has been named “Wochiigii” in honour of the Doig River First Nation.
The name translates to ‘Peace River’ and marks the first time a Dane-zaa name has been given to a pipeline system in British Columbia.
“The Dane-zaa People have lived along the Peace River for over 12,000 years which they referred to as Wǫchiigii. Among the rivers and valleys, the Beaver people were able to find harmony in nature, establish good governance, and maintain peaceful coexistence with neighbors and newcomers alike,” said Chief Trevor Makadahay,
Nearly 75 people attended the historic naming ceremony held yesterday at the Doig River First Nation Community Centre.
Enbridge announced the name as part of their engagement with the Doig River First Nation on a proposed natural gas expansion project, guided by its Indigenous Reconciliation Plan.
The Aspen Point Program, which includes the proposed ‘CS-1B Wǫchiigii’ compressor station, aims to expand pipelines through the Peace Region with the project currently undergoing regulatory review.
“For the past two years, we have worked with Indigenous Nations and local communities in northern BC in the planning and development of work on this project. We look forward to continuing that work throughout its construction and ongoing operation,” said Aspen Point Program Project Lead Dave Challoner.
If approved, construction is expected to begin in 2025, with the station estimated to become operational the following year.
The expansion would allow Enbridge to provide heat to homes, hospitals, and businesses across the province.
