Alberta First Nation sues B.C. and federal governments over hydroelectric dams

Floyd Brenz, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 10, 2026

Photo Courtesy: CBC News

An Indigenous First Nation in Alberta has taken legal action against the governments of British Columbia and Canada, along with BC Hydro, over alleged damage caused by hydroelectric projects to its treaty rights, traditional lands and way of life.

The Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, led by Chief Allan Adam, filed a notice of civil claim in the British Columbia Supreme Court last week. The case covers the construction of the W.A.C. Bennett Dam in the 1960s and the more recently completed John Horgan Dam, formerly known as the Site C project.

The First Nation argues that the construction and operation of these dams interfered with its rights under Treaty 8. It also claims it was not properly informed about the potential effects of the W.A.C. Bennett Dam on communities and ecosystems downstream in Alberta.

The lawsuit further alleges that the John Horgan Dam has altered water flows in the Peace-Athabasca Delta, an area the First Nation considers central to its traditional territory.

According to the claim, these changes have affected fish, wildlife and vegetation, while reducing opportunities for community members to hunt, trap, fish and gather food and resources.

The First Nation is seeking accountability for the alleged impacts on its treaty rights and traditional way of life.

As of November 9, the federal government, the B.C. government and BC Hydro had not yet filed responses to the lawsuit. The allegations have not been tested in court.