Cote First Nation Fence Post Treatment Site Remediation

Cote First Nation is located north of Kamsack, Saskatchewan. Within the Cote First Nation Reserve boundaries was a former fence post treatment facility that operated for approximately 10 seasons before closing in the late 1980s. The facility used chemicals that can be harmful to humans, animals and the environment in certain concentrations. The site of the former facility is located within Badgerville near residences and community gathering places, posing a concern for the Cote First Nation Council and its members.

Over several years, KGS Group conducted environmental assessments and oversaw the remediation of the former facility site. For the first time in approximately 45 years, the contaminated soils associated with the facility, that could adversely affect the health of community members, were fully remediated.

Notably, as part of the project, an impressive 9,042 person-hours of work were completed by personnel from the Cote First Nation. The total value of purchased local borrow materials, worker wages and equipment rentals supplied by the First Nation was approximately $843,000. Executed in the spirit of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action, the project presented on-the-job training and mentorship opportunities for the Cote First Nation community. Overall, the project was a community-driven process that was mutually beneficial to all parties and was largely successful because of the local nation’s involvement.

With the site of the former facility now safely remediated, the Cote First Nation can begin planning for future development in the area. What was once a potential community hazard, is now a place of great possibility.