The Gwich'in Land & Water Board

The purpose of the Gwich'in Land and Water Board (GLWB) is to “conserve, develop, and use the land and water resources of the Settlement Area for the benefit of the Gwich’in, residents, and all Canadians.”

As the organization that controls the use of land and water throughout the Gwich’in Settlement Area (including private lands), the GLWB:
- issues, changes, or replaces licences, or permits for land and water use;
- ensures that the terms of the licence are followed;
- changes the conditions that may be attached to these licences or permits (no one else in the Settlement Area can do this);
- cancels or delays licences if the holder doesn't obey the decisions made by the Board;
- suggests changes to the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act (If the government plans to change these laws, the Minister must consult with the GLWB).

The government can review decisions made by the GLWB.

The GLWB must hold public meetings about issues within the Settlement Area. They must also notify affected communities and Designated Gwich'in Organizations of any application for licences or permits that are received.

Section 24.3.13 of the GCLCA outlines what must be included in an environmental impact review. No permits or licences that allow a development to proceed can be issued until the environmental impact assessment process is done. The Gwich'in Tribal Council or any of its bodies set up under the GCLCA must also follow environmental impact assessment rules.

Website: www.glwb.com