The Globe and Mail reports in its Monday, March 25, edition that the Fort McKay First Nation in Northern Alberta is surrounded by oil sands projects. The Globe's Kelly Cryderman writes that the first nation has adapted to living amidst the mines and in situ projects north of Fort McMurray. The community boasts that only 5 per cent of its annual operating budget is funded by the government. Despite its lack of experience in oil production, the community has entered into a new agreement that allows it to take control of the process. Earlier this month, the first nation announced a memorandum of understanding with Suncor Energy to explore the possibility of a new oil sands mine on reserve lands. Under the terms, Suncor will do tests to determine the quality and quantity of minable ore on Lease 174C, Fort McKay reserve lands. Suncor is looking for ways to keep its bitumen flowing post-2040. It has become increasingly difficult to build new projects, or expand old ones. Chief Raymond Powder described the new plan as the "true meaning of reconciliation." He told Fort McMurray Today a mine could some day deliver millions in annual revenues and royalties to the first nation. "This is quite a blessing," he said.