Jorge Barrera
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Mar 11/02) - The territorial government has crossed two rivers off the list of possible candidates for hydro development.

The Slave and Lockhart rivers are off the list and the Mackenzie River could be the next to go, said Lew Voytilla, secretary of the financial management board.

"No one has expressed interest in (the Mackenzie River)," said Voytilla. "It has the most potential and the most problems too."

Voytilla said it is up to First Nations regions to push for development -- the territorial government is done selling the idea.

"If you are interested in pursuing this with us, call us and we'll get together," said Voytilla.

Last year, then Resources Minister Joe Handley toured the territory to promote the idea of a massive $26 billion hydro project.

It consisted of six rivers with run-of-river dams. The territory estimated $600 million in annual revenue from the project.

Voytilla said some regions are still interested in the hydro development.

The Talston River is getting some attention and the Dogrib are serious about developing the Snare River, said Voytilla.

"We've had some interest from various groups around the territories," said Voytilla. "Nothing has yet been concluded."