About Enoch Cree Nation & RCDC
About Enoch Cree Nation
Enoch Cree Nation (Enoch) is a progressive and proud First Nation community located in Central Alberta, Canada. Situated in a unique and prominent geographical location, Enoch borders the western city limits of Edmonton, and is approximately 10 kilometers southwest of St. Albert and 18 kilometers north of Devon on Highway #60. With a total land base of 12,933.5 acres, Enoch is home to a vibrant community, with agricultural, recreational, forestry, and industrial spaces that help support a diverse economy.
The community’s population, as of 2019, is 2,519, with a deep historical connection to the land. The earliest known leader of the nation was Chief Lapotac, whose legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of Enoch. From fur trading economies to modern-day business ventures, Enoch continues to grow while preserving its rich cultural heritage and strong ties to the land.
Enoch Cree Nation's History
The history of Enoch dates back to the 1670s, when the Strongwood Cree, the original inhabitants of the Beaver River area, thrived. Chief Lapotac’s leadership laid the foundation for the band, which was formally recognized in 1842. The reserve, now known as Enoch Cree Nation, was formally established under the leadership of Chief Enoch Lapotac in 1884.
Through decades of economic evolution—from fur trading to agriculture, oil and gas, and entrepreneurship—Enoch Cree Nation has emerged as a self-sufficient and self-determined community. The creation of businesses like the River Cree Resort and Casino (RCRC) and continued involvement in economic ventures has allowed the Nation to foster resilience and continue its cultural practices.
En-BESS and TRC Call to Action #92
Meaningful Consultation and Respectful Relationships
En-BESS is being developed with Enoch's full involvement, ensuring that all decisions are made with the free, prior, and informed consent of the community. This project embodies RCDC’s core values of trust (mamisiwin) and care (nakatohke) for the community and the land.
Equitable Access to Jobs and Training
The En-BESS project will provide job training and educational opportunities for Enoch members, contributing to the Nation’s self-sufficiency and long-term prosperity. This initiative aligns with the TRC’s call for Indigenous peoples to have equitable access to education and training, empowering future generations to thrive in both traditional and modern economies.
Commitment to Cultural Preservation
As part of the development process, En-BESS respects Enoch's cultural heritage and ensures that projects are in harmony with the land. By integrating Enoch’s teachings and traditions into the energy sector, En-BESS stands as a model of how modern technologies can coexist with cultural preservation and environmental stewardship.
Community and Environmental Stewardship
Enoch values the land entrusted to them by the Creator. The En-BESS project ensures that renewable energy sources are harnessed responsibly, contributing to environmental sustainability for future generations while respecting the natural world in which the community resides.