The Benefits of Energy | Melanie Darbyshire
Chief Mel Grandjamb. Photo by Crystal Mercredi.
THE BENEFITS OF ENERGY
CHIEF MEL GRANDJAMB ON THE PRESENT AND FUTURE OF THE FORT MCKAY FIRST NATION
A
by Melanie Darbyshire
s one of Canada’s wealthiest First Nations, the Fort McKay First Nation (FMFN) derives much of its prosperity from involvement in and partnerships with the energy industry. Its location - 60 kilometres north of Fort McMurray, along the banks of the
Athabasca River - sets it squarely in oilsands territory and FMFN has, since the1970s, been a keen participant in the sector. Today, 11 FMFN owned companies generate 65 per cent of the nation’s yearly income ($47.9
7 • Business of Energy • October 2020
