Mapping Our Lifelines: Protecting Chisasibi’s Natural Springs
- Preston Sam
- Sep 26
- 3 min read
We are proud to highlight the important work of Preston Bobbish, who recently represented Chisasibi at the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Sustainable Development Institute (FNQLSDI) summit. His presentation, Hydrogeological Mapping and Characterization of Natural Springs in the Chisasibi Territory, shined a light on an issue that affects every one of us — access to safe, clean drinking water.
Why Groundwater Matters
Water is life. For generations, our people have relied on the land and its water sources — not only for survival but also for our identity, culture, and spiritual well-being. Preston’s project is about reconnecting with that responsibility by studying the natural springs that flow across our territory.
In Chisasibi, these springs are more than just water sources. They are part of our ecosystem, feeding plants and animals, and they provide drinking water for families on the land. Understanding them helps us protect them, ensuring that we can continue to drink from them safely in the years to come.
The Work Being Done
Preston, along with his team at the Chisasibi Eeyou Resource and Research Institute (CERRI) hydrogeology department, has been mapping and characterizing natural springs, collecting water samples, and running detailed tests. His team includes Stephan Bearskin and Matthew Kanatewat, both local youth who recently joined this important effort.
Together, these young researchers are studying:
Microbiological quality: Looking for indicators like total coliforms, E. coli, and enterococci to detect contamination.
Chemical composition: Testing for nutrients like nitrates and chlorides, which can indicate runoff or pollution.
Dissolved metals: Monitoring elements like iron, manganese, and arsenic that can impact human health.
All of this data helps us build a clearer picture of where our water is safe and where action might be needed.
Challenges in the North
One of the biggest challenges Preston emphasized is the difficulty of shipping water samples to accredited labs within the 24-hour window required for microbiological testing. Delays can mean inaccurate results.
That’s why Preston and his team stressed the need for an accredited laboratory within Eeyou Istchee. Having one close to home would mean faster, more reliable results, and more control over protecting our water sources.
Community Awareness and Action
This project isn’t just about science — it’s about protecting something sacred. Preston and his team believe it’s important to raise awareness in the community about how our actions on the land can affect groundwater.
Simple measures, like protecting springs from contamination and being mindful of waste disposal, can make a lasting difference. By sharing information with the community, the team hopes to inspire everyone to take part in protecting the water we all rely on.
Youth Leading the Way
What makes this project even more meaningful is that it is being led by local youth from Chisasibi. Preston, Stephan, and Matthew represent the next generation of water protectors, combining scientific research with a deep respect for the land.
By building knowledge here at home, they are not only protecting today’s water but also laying the foundation for water security and sovereignty for future generations. Their work shows what’s possible when young people take the lead in caring for their community.
A Moment of Pride
Preston’s presentation at the FNQLSDI summit was a powerful reminder that local research matters. By sharing Chisasibi’s story, he showed other Nations what can be achieved when communities invest in understanding their water sources and empower their youth to take on leadership roles.
Special Thanks
We extend our gratitude to the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Sustainable Development Institute for hosting this summit and creating space for these conversations. And we are deeply proud of Preston Bobbish, Stephan Bearskin, and Matthew Kanatewat for their leadership in protecting one of our most vital resources — the water that gives us life.
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