The Community Government of Behchokǫ̀ has postponed its annual Spring Carnival from its original dates of April 10-12 to May 15-18, 2026, due to a severe and ongoing water crisis in the territory.
Recreation Manager Mercedes Rabesca stated that the decision was necessary to protect public health and safety. Bringing an estimated 500 to 800 visitors into the community would have placed significant strain on the already fragile water system, which has been struggling since December 2025 due to freezing temperatures and aging infrastructure.
The water crisis has had a daily impact on residents, some of whom have been without running water for months. Elder Terri Naskan, who has been without water since January 2026, noted that the situation presents a serious health hazard. Many residents have been forced to rely on honey buckets and are even travelling to Yellowknife to do laundry due to the lack of local water access.
Chief Bertha Rabesca Zoe has been lobbying the federal government since June 2025 to secure roughly $100 million in funding to replace the community’s water and sewage pipe systems, some of which are over 50 years old. With the water intake at West Channel frozen solid, the community remains in an emergency state, currently relying on water truck deliveries three days per week.
Following the announcement of the carnival’s delay, the Recreation Manager faced public backlash, including a death threat. In response, local leadership has called for community unity as they navigate these difficult infrastructure challenges.
