MCA Environmental Management

Melinda McLauchlin has over sixteen years experience in the environmental profession.  Melinda’s primary area of excellence is in the project management of environmental assessments for developments on federal lands with a particular emphasis on First Nation reserve lands.   Melinda has been responsible for the development and delivery of environmental training courses for Federal staff and First Nation organizations for the last ten years.  Her field experience includes a diverse range of activities that includes environmental site assessments, small facility audits, community waste management plans, water sampling programs, and numerous environmental assessments.

In working with the Federal Government, and for First Nation communities in Alberta, B.C., Yukon, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario Melinda has benefited from a diverse range of cultural experiences that serves to enhance her understanding of the First Nation perspective on development.  She has an intimate knowledge of the administrative processes in over 80 First Nation communities. She has a unique understanding of the various land management regimes in place. Understanding the difference between self-governing Nations; 53/60 delegated authority under the Indian Act, or being part of the First Nation Land Management Act (FNLMA), means understanding different decision-making processes.   Melinda understands the subtle differences between each of these processes and how it can impact First Nations management decisions.   Melinda can bridge potential communication gaps between industry, other governments and First Nation administrations, and help everyone meet federal regulatory requirements.

Melinda has written and delivered environmental management courses for private industry, First Nations and government. She has two certificates in ISO 14001 Environmental Management System’s (EMS) Lead Auditors Training Program and experience in delivering EMS training for organizations with a completed EMS.