Steel River partners with Loon River First Nation

RED EARTH, ALTA. — Steel River Group has announced a new energy sector partnership with Loon River First Nation in northern Alberta.

Steel River, an Indigenous-owned diversified management, development and construction consortium, stated the partnership will diversify the Loon River’s economic portfolio by expanding into regional industries such as logging, reclamation and environmental, while leveraging the community’s traditional knowledge and experience.

Steel River says for its part of the partnership it will support the cultural, social and economic vision of Loon River by advocating for and advancing the interests of the community with industry. Steel River expects the partnership to also build capacity and increase employment in the region by identifying and realizing economic opportunities for development.

“I am thrilled to share the news of our newest partnership with Loon River First Nation,” said Trent Fequet, founder and CEO of Steel River Group, in a press release. “Loon River holds significant potential, and I am looking forward to working alongside the nation to support the development of opportunities through a collaborative and proactive approach with industry, that is led through the lens of synergizing Loon River First Nations’ cultural preservation, social sovereignty, and economic sustainability.”

Loon River, located on Treaty 8 territory in Alberta, is comprised of three reserves: Loon Lake 235, Loon Prairie 237 and Swampy Lake 236. In addition to Loon River Contracting, Loon River also operates Loon River Trucking.

“Loon River First Nation is proud to partner with Steel River Group,” said Ivan Sawan, Chief of Loon River First Nation. “Trusted and respected, the brand of Steel River Group will help Loon River reach its potential – not just in the oil and gas industry, but other industries only imagined. This is a welcomed opportunity for Loon River First Nation and our members as we embark on existing and new opportunities together with Steel River Group.”