When it comes to Arctic ports, let’s build on what we have

Opinion

Manitoba has a national treasure in the Port of Churchill. It’s not just our country’s only Arctic deepwater port — it’s also at the centre of an abundant ecosystem that supports nearby communities and a thriving ecotourism industry.

However, as Canada and the province rightly turn their attention to the opportunities this area presents, we need to distinguish genuine nation-building projects from potentially harmful distractions.

Recently, attention has been drawn to a proposed second Hudson Bay port project in Manitoba, branded as Neestanan — a Cree word meaning “all of us.”

Unfortunately, the name belies the divisive nature of this venture. If it goes ahead, Neestanan threatens to undermine the existing Hudson Bay Railway line and the port at Churchill, as well as critical ecological habitats.

First, the economic need for a second port is not clear.

The Port of Churchill is operated by an Indigenous and community-owned company based here in Manitoba, contributing to jobs, profits and investment locally.

It has made clear commitments to responsible growth and upgrades to existing infrastructure at the Port of Churchill — coupled with federal investment — have revitalized its potential as Canada’s northern deepwater port. Meanwhile, the Neestanan project has yet to produce a credible business case and one of its initial proponents has a track record in Alberta’s oil and gas industry that raises serious concerns.

Environmental arguments for a second port don’t hold water, either.

Supporters of Neestanan claim that Churchill’s existing port cannot expand responsibly because of its proximity to critical beluga whale habitats.

This argument is misleading. Manitoba’s coast indeed hosts the largest beluga population in the world, estimated at 55,000. Along this coast, the Nelson River estuary — the proposed site for Neestanan — is actually home to the highest density of summering whales (approximately 23,000) and supports a rich ecosystem including polar bears, seals, sturgeon and significant bird populations.

Additionally, many of Manitoba’s Cree communities have deep ties to the Nelson estuary and adjacent York Factory Historic Site on the mouth of the Hayes River. Adding another industrial footprint — complete with additional rail lines and infrastructure — would compound environmental stress rather than relieve it.

At Oceans North, our research is actively addressing the questions that will allow people and whales to continue living side-by-side at the Port of Churchill.

Working alongside local communities and academic partners, we are deepening our understanding of how beluga whales use Churchill’s estuary and how vessel noise and activity impact marine life. This information is essential to developing shipping protocols and practices that respect both economic needs and ecological integrity.

We have also sponsored a locally-led storytelling project to collect Indigenous and community knowledge about belugas from Inuit, Dene, Cree and Metis residents of Churchill. Contributors of all ages have shared memories and stories that illustrate how whales and people have long co-existed within the town and throughout Western Hudson Bay.

While these relationships have changed over time, beluga whales have always been important. Contributors talked about their visions for the future, including ensuring that belugas continue to thrive in the region and protecting them from threats such as pollution.

The best way to balance the prerogatives of nation-building and protecting our natural heritage would be a National Marine Conservation Area (NMCA) designation for Manitoba’s estuaries.

Such a designation would provide spatial protections and, crucially, create a management framework inclusive of all stakeholders — Indigenous communities, local businesses, scientists, conservationists and governments. An NMCA would not prevent development but instead establish clear rules and collaborative management strategies to ensure the coexistence of sustainable port operations with vibrant ecosystems. The first step would be to begin a feasibility assessment and community consultations so that those who use and know the area have a direct say in shaping what comes next.

In an era when the federal government is seeking ambitious projects to grow our economy and demonstrate what Canada can build, there is a clear opportunity in Churchill. But building isn’t just about breaking ground; it’s about strengthening the foundations we already have.

Investing in Churchill’s existing port and establishing an NMCA is the responsible, visionary path forward for Canada’s economic and ecological future.

Christopher Debicki lives in Winnipeg and works for Oceans North, a Canadian charity.