Operations Bamijikewin

Maintaining the vegetation that grows around the line helps protect the transmission system. Elders provided an appropriate name for Wataynikaneyap Power’s vegetation management program: bamijikewin or ᐸᒥᒋᑫᐏᐣ.

As per the Guiding Principles, no herbicides are used on the transmission system to maintain vegetation.

Machines, like mulchers and tracked mowers, can be used in areas that are both relatively flat, and away from water courses, towers, and rock outcrops. Hand tools can be used for vegetation near water courses, towers, and rock outcrops.

Bamijikewin includes:

• Promoting low growth in specific areas
• Keeping safe vegetation height to prevent overgrowth
• Avoid damage to lines, towers, and substations
• Avoid power outages caused by trees
• Reduce risk from fire hazards on the Right of Way
• Ensure adequate access for maintenance and emergency response

Each line segment will typically need bamijikewin on a 3-6 year cycle.

Wataynikaneyap Power will continue to implement meaningful participation and involvement through engagement and communication with Participating First Nations.

Bamijikewin is planned and carried out in a way that respects First Nation protocols and seasonal activities. Local knowledge and guidance from Participating First Nations help shape how, when, and where work occurs. Participating First Nations are invited to share local knowledge, concerns, or observations through community engagement sessions or by contacting Wataynikaneyap Power. This information helps guide planning, priorities, and ongoing stewardship.