Bearskin Lake First Nation facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bearskin Lake
|
|
|---|---|
| Bearskin Lake Indian Reserve | |
Aerial view of Bearskin Lake First Nation on Michikan Lake
|
|
 Bearskin Lake
Location in Ontario
|
|
| Country |  Canada |
| Province |  Ontario |
| District | Kenora |
| First Nation | Bearskin Lake |
| Area | |
| • Land | 125.78 km2 (48.56 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 230 m (750 ft) |
| Population
(2006)
|
|
| • Total | 459 |
Bearskin Lake First Nation (Severn Ojibwa: ᒥᒋᑲᐣ ᓴᑲᐦᐃᑲᐣ) is a community of the Oji-Cree people in Ontario, Canada. It is located far north, about 425 kilometers (264 miles) from Sioux Lookout. This First Nation is a self-governing community, meaning they make their own decisions. As of 2014, about 900 people were registered members. Around 461 of them lived on their reserve land.
Contents
Where is Bearskin Lake First Nation?
The Bearskin Lake First Nation is made up of three settlements. The main community moved to its current spot on Michikan Lake in the 1930s. Michikan Lake means "Fish Trap Lake."
You can only reach the main village by air, using Bearskin Lake Airport. During winter, a special winter road also connects the community. The main village is on the west side of the lake. All three settlements are connected by gravel roads that can be used in all types of weather.
The First Nation still owns the large Bearskin Lake Indian Reserve. This reserve covers about 12,626 hectares (31,200 acres) of land. It also includes parts of the Severn River and Severn Lake. Michikan Lake flows into the Severn River.
A Bit of History
Before 1975, Bearskin Lake was a smaller community connected to the Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation. This larger community is about 72 kilometers (45 miles) to the east. In 1975, Bearskin Lake gained full "Band and reserve status." This means they became their own official First Nation with their own land.
Today, Bearskin Lake First Nation is part of the Windigo First Nations Council. This council is a group of First Nations in the region. The Windigo First Nations Council is also a member of the Nishnawbe Aski Nation. The Nishnawbe Aski Nation represents many First Nations in northern Ontario.
How They Govern Themselves
Bearskin First Nation is led by a Chief and a Deputy Chief. They also have a Council with four councillors. These leaders work together to make decisions for the community. Their term of leadership usually lasts for three years.
Staying Safe
The community of Bearskin Lake is kept safe by the Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service. This police service is specially set up for Aboriginal communities.
