Northwest Territories

“100 youth projects wanted in French,” a new microgrant program wants youth to plant language learning seeds outside school. A network of action-research teams in Canada, other parts of North America, Africa and Europe is launching a youth grant stream to support French language engagement outside of conventional spaces. Youth across the country aged 14 to 30 are eligible for 100 microgrants in support of grassroots initiatives as part of this program run by the Dialogue Network.

Testing at another school site in the city of Yellowknife showed elevated levels of lead and copper in water present in some of its drinking taps. Earlier this month, testing showed four other school buildings in Yellowknife and a school in Behchokǫ̀ had elevated levels of both copper and lead in water. Since comprehensive testing of schools across the territory began this fall, 28 school sites out of 34 announced to date have tested positive for elevated levels of lead.

Fort Smith officials said water testing at municipal buildings has confirmed the presence of lead. According to the announcement, water samples at the Town Hall, the Fire Hall, and the Municipal Services Building continue to show elevated levels of lead.

City officials are looking for the public’s input on a project that aims to expand Yellowknife’s raw water supply. According to the message from city officials, the project will “modernize and expand” the water system. By expanding the system, city officials also want to expand the reliability of the long term water supply. With water infrastructure aging, an adequate water supply will be critical as the city grows.

GNWT's Infrastructure department says the Mackenzie Valley Winter Road is closed for the winter season. The Wekweètì and Gamètì winter roads remain restricted to night travel only between 10 pm to 10 am. A representative with GNWT’s department of Infrastructure said access to winter roads and sections are limited to timed travel to preserve their longevity at the end of the winter road season.

Ecology North is inviting the public to come and welcome spring this Earth Week, with events running from April 20 to 26.  

Yellowknife’s Folk On The Rocks music festival and its Executive Director Teresa Horosko have been nominated for awards at the 2026 Live Music Awards.  

Economic Development Director Kerry Thistle and Community Engagement Advisor Richela Solatorio presented what is described as a “master story” of the city through the experiences of those who live here. While some aspects of the planned pitch were met with enthusiasm, city council members said that Indigenous identity and culture must be integral to such a project.

Fort Smith RCMP are investigating a fatal snowmobile collision that occurred in a remote wilderness area that occurred over the weekend