Update Community: Bigstone Cree Nation

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Bigstone Cree Nation (BCN) is a Woodland Cree Treaty 8 First Nation based in Wabasca–Desmarais, northern Alberta, with reserve lands including Wabasca 166 and related parcels as well as Jean Baptiste Gambler 183. The Nation comprises several communities — Calling Lake, Chipewyan Lake, and Wabasca — and has a large registered population of members living on- and off-reserve across the region. BCN’s governance is led by an elected Chief and Council who guide community planning, cultural preservation, and economic decision-making within its traditional territory. 
Economically, Bigstone Cree Nation is engaged in strategic partnerships, business development, and land-use initiatives that support community jobs and revenue. A prominent recent engagement is the Nation’s investment partnership in the Wapiscanis Waseskwan Nipiy Limited Partnership, where BCN became an investor alongside other Indigenous partners and Tamarack Valley Energy in midstream oil and gas infrastructure — signalling participation in regional energy value chains and long-term revenue streams. Historically, BCN partnered with Alberta-Pacific Forest Industries Inc. to establish Bigstone Forestry Inc., reflecting engagement in forestry resource development and regional industry collaboration. The Nation has also pursued local industrial and commercial land development, including proposals like the Bigstone Cree Nation Oilfield Supply Store on reserve lands, which create space for local enterprise growth and employment. Beyond commercial projects, BCN is investing in community infrastructure improvements — such as permanent health facilities and education access roads — which contribute to social and economic resilience. 
Looking ahead, Bigstone Cree Nation’s economic development trajectory is rooted in resource-sector participation, partnership-oriented investment, land-based enterprise development, and regional collaboration. With major investment partnerships and ongoing local commercial and infrastructure planning, the Nation continues to shape economic opportunities that align with community goals, capacity building, and long-term prosperity.
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Update Community: Bigstone Cree Nation

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