Beardy's and Okemasis, a First Nation community, and SkyPower, a Lehman Brothers Company, have entered into an agreement to develop the Willow Cree Wind Project.

The partners' proposed plan includes developing a 100 MW wind park in Big Quill, a rural municipality near Wynyard, Saskatchewan. The project currently encompasses approximately 12,000 acres of land and when built, will generate clean energy sufficient to power more than 30,000 homes annually. The construction of the project could start as early as 2010.

"SkyPower is excited to have formed a partnership with Beardy's and Okemasis First Nation," stated Kerry Adler, President and Chief Executive Officer, SkyPower.

"As SkyPower has demonstrated over the last five years, working with First Nations and local communities not only provides clean energy results, but also establishes more economic benefits directly in the region. We applaud Chief Gamble and the Beardy's and Okemasis First Nation for taking this initiative and setting an example how First Nations and industry can make a difference."

Chief Rick Gamble added, "We chose to partner with SkyPower because of their extensive experience in wind development with First Nations. Moreover, the Willow Cree Wind Project will generate a reliable source of local benefits, including job training programs, employment for the local community, as well as have a positive impact on local tourism. The proposed development will be an important driver of local economic development for years to come."