Our Territory

 Our traditional territory is part of the headwaters of the upper Ottawa River in Northwestern Quebec. Some of this territory was designated to be part of an integrated land management plan known as the Trilateral Agreement. There are 10,760 square kilometers covered by the Trilateral Agreement. Part of this land-base covers the La Vérendrye Park. This territory provides a natural and healthy eco-system for the Algonquins of Barriere Lake.

Water is a dominant feature of the landscape. Two large man-made hydro projects -- the Cabonga and Dozois reservoirs -- cover 5% of the total landbase. In addition, there are numerous lakes and waterways bringing overall water coverage to nearly 16% of the territory.

The presence of so much shoreline throughout the territory has resulted in the presence of unique riparian eco systems along the shores of the lakes and river. Riparian systems fosters greater bio-diversity than would exist in the surrounding woodlands. As well, riparian forest cover provides natural travel routes for wildlife and the zones are used by a variety of animals for roosting.

In addition to the waterways, the region hosts a surprising mixture of tree cover including balsam, Jack Pine, Black Spruce, White Elm, Black Ash, White and Red Pine. The diversity in forests supports a large base of wildlife – 167 species of birds and 50 species of mammals. The abundance of beaver, marten, moose and grouse is the basis for the economic well-being of the Algonquins of Barriere Lake.

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