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Purpose and History of the Committee
The committee was established by citizens and for citizens of the Serpent River, Lake Lauzon and North Channel of Lake Huron. Our primary purpose is to maintain the long-term environmental well-being of the communities of Elliot Lake, Serpent River First Nation and the Township of the North Shore.
We recognize that these lands and waters have provided those of us who live here, and many who do not, with various forms of wealth. For generations we have harvested fish and furs, we have hunted, farmed, logged, and mined.
Even as we look forward to the development of new economic opportunities in our region, we are aware of past mistakes. We have 170 million tones of uranium mine waste in 12 waste storage sites that must be managed in perpetuity. Our members believe that local citizens can and must be involved in decisions that ensure that our environment is protected today and our legacy to future generations is one we can be proud of.
Those of us who live here have become spiritually bound with this land and these waters. We believe they must remain healthy if we are all to prosper. Members of the Serpent River Region Environmental Committee are committed to responsible environmental management of our resources.
Mission Statement
The Serpent River Regional Environmental Committee was incorporated as a 'not for profit' organization on February 19, 2003. The nine-member board has representation from each of the three communities in the watershed, some members are appointed by municipal or band council, and some are elected from general membership. The board has adopted the following mission statement and mandate:
"To maintain, through constructive interaction and strong partnerships among the mining companies, regulatory agencies and stakeholders, the long term environmental well-being of the lands and waterways in the communities located in the Serpent River Region. In doing so, to ensure that these communities remain healthy, economically secure, spiritually whole and sustainable."
Our Mandate
"The SEC shall promote education and research opportunities to support its vision of healthy and sustainable communities in the Serpent River Watershed. The Committee shall establish partnerships with academic and environmental organizations, mining companies and regulatory agencies to help ensure that the outstanding decommissioning and land-use issues as well as the ongoing monitoring and maintenance of the containment facilities for uranium tailings do not pose any environmental hazards or economic risks to any of the communities in the region."
Become a member
Membership is open to all residents within the region, at least 18 years of age, who support the Objectives of the Corporation, upon payment of a $5.00 annual fee. All members in good standing, as determined by the Board, shall have the right to attend and vote at Members Meetings, have access to all pertinent documentation and be eligible to become a Director.
Questions/ comments?
Our address: 45 Hillside Drive N., Elliot Lake, On P5A 2T1
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