Fort Chipewyan came close to a food crisis a few weeks ago after the wildfire caused the evacuation of Fort McMurray, with Mikisew Cree First Nation Chief Steve Courtoreille warning that the small hamlet could be completely out of food within 5 days if something was not done about the problem. More people meant more food was needed, and many hit the only grocery store in Fort Chipewyan to stock up before supplies became scarce. Many worried that this could have a devastating impact on food prices, with the cost rising and many who have a limited income suffering as a result. The smoke from the wildfire sent an abundance of geese north into the hunting area for the group though, and the hunters were quick to take advantage. According to 32 year old Cree trapper Robert Grandjambe “I’ve been contacted by people who haven’t contacted me before, looking for some meat. The food situation is not so bad now. But people are so dependent nowadays on the store and this really triggers awareness.”

Those who rely solely on the Fort Chipewyan grocery store often face shock over prices, with 10 pounds of potatoes priced at up to $25 and a pint of blueberries costing around $11. Any upward movement of food prices could severely impact the ability of seniors and low income residents to afford enough food. Thanks to regular food drops prices have stayed stable right now but the hunting by First Nation members definitely helps the food stretch further. According to Fort Chipewyan Metis vice president Blue Eyes Simpson “The food situation is becoming pretty stable right now. The Northern has groceries trucked into Vermillion that are then flown in. There are planes with groceries that are dispersed to evacuees.”