Enbridge’s Compressor Station 1B (CS-1B), situated 5 km south of Taylor, has been renamed ‘Wǫchiigii,’ meaning ‘Peace River.’
Supplied photo.
The name, in the Dane-zaa Záágéʔ (Beaver language), was revealed during a ribbon-cutting ceremony officiated by Doig River First Nation Chief Trevor Makadahay and Enbridge Vice President of Canadian Gas Transmission and Midstream, Steve Elliott.
Around 75 people gathered at the Doig River First Nation community for the event including Chief and Council members, local administration, Enbridge representatives, leaders from surrounding municipalities, and community members.
“We are proud to carry the first Dane-zaa name along our natural gas pipeline system in B.C. This name not only honours the traditional land and cultural heritage of Indigenous people, it represents our ongoing effort to build stronger relationships with Doig River First Nation and other Indigenous groups across the province,” said Steve Elliott, Enbridge VP Canadian Gas Transmission & Midstream in a media release.
“While we’ve had a longstanding history of working with Doig River First Nation, we firmly believe that meaningful engagement goes beyond just naming – it involves ongoing open dialogue and collaboration. That’s what this name means for us – it’s a demonstration and commitment to continued partnership.”
Wǫchiigii serves as a meaningful tribute to the land where the compressor station will be constructed as part of Enbridge's Aspen Point Program expansion initiative.
The name was selected by the Doig River First Nation following discussions with Enbridge regarding the proposed natural gas expansion project in northern B.C.
CS-1B Wǫchiigii pays tribute to the cultural heritage and traditions of the local Indigenous peoples and represents the strengthening of relationships with Indigenous groups throughout the province.
“The Dane-zaa People have lived along the Peace River for more than 12,000 years, which they referred to as Wǫchiigii (Peace River). Among the rivers and valleys, the Beaver people were able to find harmony in nature, establish good governance, and maintain peaceful coexistence with neighbours and newcomers alike,” said Chief Trevor Makadahay, Doig River First Nation.
The naming of CS-1B Wǫchiigii reflects a broader shift in how industry and government are engaging in reconciliation efforts with Indigenous communities according to a media release from Enbridge.
Enbridge, following its Indigenous Reconciliation Action Plan is dedicated to strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities and seeking opportunities for greater economic inclusion and benefits.
“For the past two years, we have worked with Indigenous Nations and local communities in northern B.C. in the planning and development of this project. We look forward to continuing that work throughout its construction and ongoing operation,” stated Dave Challoner, Enbridge Manager of Projects and Aspen Point Program Project Lead in a media release.
The Aspen Point Program aims to address the growing demand for natural gas and is currently in a regulatory review process.
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