Suncor’s Fort Hills expansion threatens Alberta’s wetlands, increases wildfire risk, and encroaches on Indigenous rights.
Edmonton/Unceded Treaty 6 territory, the traditional land of the Cree, Blackfoot, Métis, Nakota Sioux, Dene, Saulteaux, Anishinaabe, and Inuit — Environmental law charity Ecojustice has filed a regulatory challenge to reduce the damage from Suncor Energy’s approved plan to expand its Fort Hills oil sands mine into the McClelland Lake Wetland Complex (MLWC) — a globally significant ecosystem in northern Alberta.
The challenge, submitted to the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER), is filed on behalf of Barbara Faichney, a member of Fort McKay First Nation and lifelong resident of the region. Suncor’s expansion (which has already been approved by the AER) threatens her ability to exercise Treaty rights, including hunting, fishing, and access to clean drinking water. “The area between the Firebag river and Bitumount, including McClelland Lake wetlands, is where I was raised, where I was taught traditional ways of being, where I formed relationships with my family, and where I feel truly at home,’ said Barbara Faichney.
The MLWC is one of Alberta’s most ecologically rich landscapes—home to rare patterned fens, carbon-storing peatlands, sinkhole lakes, and endangered species like the Whooping Crane. It also plays a critical role in wildfire mitigation by maintaining moisture-rich conditions that act as natural firebreaks.
“The science is also clear: this expansion risks permanent damage to a wetland complex that cannot be replaced,” said Susanne Calabrese, lawyer at Ecojustice.
Ecojustice’s legal filing is backed by expert reports. Environmental toxicologist Mandy Olsgard found serious flaws in Suncor’s application, including violations of current permit conditions and a failure to assess environmental impacts in accordance with regulatory guidelines.
Meanwhile, wildfire expert Dr. Sophie Wilkinson warns that disturbing the peat-rich wetlands could lead to long-lasting, toxic fires. “These fires burn longer and produce more smoke than typical forest fires,” said Dr. Wilkinson. “They are harder to extinguish and could pose real danger to surrounding communities, including urban areas.”
Ecojustice is calling on the AER to reject the permit renewal or impose strict conditions to protect the remaining wetlands.
“This isn’t just about protecting biodiversity,” added Faichney. “It’s about defending communities, honouring Indigenous rights, and ensuring a livable future for all.”
