First Nations in Manitoba’s Interlake region are accusing the provincial government of failing to consult them before installing a gravel blockade that restricted access to traditional hunting and harvesting areas east of Lake St.Martin.

Community members and leaders say the blocked access road interfered with treaty rights and limited entry to land used for hunting and collecting traditional medicines.

In response, demonstrators gathered on Friday and removed the gravel blockade, arguing that the restriction was imposed without proper notification or engagement with affected Indigenous communities.

Chief Lawrence Letander of Dauphin River First Nation stated that the province did not inform Interlake First Nations about the installation of the barrier, and said communities are seeking answers about when and why the blockade was created.He emphasized that the land has been used for generations and that access is essential for cultural practices and livelihoods.Concerns were also raised about potential environmental impacts from ongoing construction tied to a proposed flood-relief project.

The Manitoba government said the gate and access restrictions were part of an environmental licensing process intended to manage impacts from increased access related to construction of a new access road and flood mitigation infrastructure.

Officials added that the gate is being reconsidered following feedback from First Nations and reaffirmed their commitment to continued discussions with Indigenous leaders.

Interlake Reserves Tribal Council representatives accused the province of breaching treaty rights and failing to consult adequately on the broader flood channel project.They described longstanding frustrations over what they see as insufficient good-faith negotiation.

Meetings between First Nations leaders, provincial ministers, and the premier are expected next month as discussions continue over land access, consultation, and the future of flood mitigation infrastructure in the region.