The “L3” (Land-Life-Link), a portable shelter constructed through a partnership between Deh Gáh Got’îê First Nation and SSi Canada, with funding from the Universal Broadband Fund, is currently stuck in Fort Providence, due to low water levels making transportation of the structure to its intended destination impossible.
The shelter is planned to be positioned at a healing lodge downstream from Fort Providence to provide connectivity to the area, which is popular for fishing, hunting and harvesting. The structure can provide coverage within a 5km radius and serves as a heated shelter, according to SSi Canada’s chief development officer. Dean Proctor.
Unfortunately, efforts to move the structure to its intended destination have been halted by low water levels in the Mackenzie River.
“The access route we usually use in the winter is like totally rocky, because there’s no water,” explained Greg Nyuli, the executive director at Deh Gáh Got’îê First Nation.
Efforts to move the structure via a barge in the summer months are currently being planned, but these too may be prevented by low water levels.
Currently the L3 is located behind the Snowshoe Inn in Fort Providence, with plans to move it to a local school early this year, so students can have easier access to Wi-Fi.
