By MPDA Staff
Strong relationships are essential to helping communities and industry prepare for a changing climate. Terry Brown, President of the Manitoba Prospectors & Developers Association, explored this connection during his presentation at the 2026 Adaptation Forum at the Forks in Winnipeg.
The October 20–21 forum brought together Indigenous leaders, government, industry and community organizations to explore how communities across the Prairies can prepare for a changing climate. Over two days, discussions addressed resilient housing, energy and infrastructure, financing, and the partnerships needed to put adaptation into practice.
Terry’s presentation, “Building Resilience Through Collaboration: Industry, Indigenous and Community Partnerships,” explored how strong relationships help communities and projects respond when conditions change.
Four foundations for resilient partnerships
Drawing on his perspective as a member of Peguis First Nation, an Indigenous business owner and MPDA President, Terry outlined four foundations for resilient partnerships: Relationship, Rights, Readiness and Returns.
He emphasized engaging Indigenous Nations early, respecting their decision-making authority and ensuring they have the resources to assess opportunities. He also highlighted the value of bringing Indigenous and local knowledge into project design, from understanding changing ice and water conditions to identifying evacuation and access challenges.
Shared benefits for projects and communities
For mineral development, these conversations have practical implications. Roads, power, communications and emergency planning can support project operations while strengthening surrounding communities. Procurement, training and ownership opportunities can help ensure benefits continue beyond construction.
Terry also highlighted the role industry associations can play in bringing people together before projects face pressure. At MPDA, we see those connections as essential to responsible mineral development and lasting community benefits.
Thank you to the Energy Conference Network for creating space for these conversations, and to Terry for contributing his experience and perspective.