Fort Norman (Aug 25/03) - The Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board (MVEIRB) has approved a new access route into a potential well site for Northrock Resources Ltd. near the community of Tulita.

The proposed construction and shipping project associated with the play include: construction of a staging area, construction and watering of a temporary access road -- from the staging site to the well site, construction of an ice bridge across the Mackenzie River and shipping a drilling rig and support equipment to the site.

The drilling operation will include a 16-person mobile camp during access construction, a 40-person camp near the well site, a six-person camp at the staging site and an airstrip.

Northrock is also promising removal of all equipment by ice road or barge after the project is complete, along with site restoration.

After holding a public hearing on May 15 in Tulita, MVEIRB concluded, "the potential impact of the proposed Keele River access route on wildlife harvesting and on cultural and heritage resources are not greater than those of the Little Bear River access routes," states an executive summary issued by MVEIRB on Aug. 8.

Larry Wallace, chair of the Sahtu Land and Water Board, says the next step is up to Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs Robert Nault.

"The processes are there. Everyone has been involved ... it's that balance you try to find all the time," said Wallace.

Brian Merchant, manager of drilling and completion, was hesitant to provide comment on the potential project.

"We don't have a comment at this time. The Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board has endorsed the new route and now it's up to the minister for final approval. It's still pending," he said.

MVEIRB board executive director Vern Christensen also said the project still needs additional regulatory approval.

"The board in its report has recommended the project proceed to permitting and that recommendation goes to the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs, the Hon. Robert Nault, who will consult with RWED Minister Jim Antoine and the environmental department and any other minister with regulatory responsibility," said Christensen.

It's important to note, said Christensen, approval also needs to be provided by the Sahtu Land and Water Board as well as the Mackenzie Valley Land and Water Board.