the mandatory six months notice that they would be separating from the organization. The Fort Smith Métis Council is the local representation for members of the Northwest Territory Métis Nation. In 1996, a framework agreement was signed with the government of the Northwest Territories and the government of Canada to commence negotiations on land, resources and self-government. Attractions Fort Smith is the home of the Northern Life Museum and home of the museum ship Radium King. Every year the South Slave Friendship Festival, a music and arts festival, occurs in Fort Smith, usually in August. Musicians and artists from across the Northwest Territories and many other faraway places come to interact with other artists and show off their talents to the public. Many tourists come to see the world-class Slave River and many kayakers try its rapids. Fort Smith Mission Park is a popular tourist attraction featuring historic buildings and a grotto from the Oblate Catholic Mission. In the summer months, pelicans can be seen nesting on the various rapids near Fort Smith. Whooping cranes, an endangered species, also nest in the area during the summer and can be viewed via air charters as ground access is prohibited. Education There are a number of educational facilities in Fort Smith including Joseph Burr Tyrrell Elementary School, Paul William Kaeser High School and the Thebacha Campus of Aurora College. Additionally, the main office of the South Slave Divisional Education Council is located in the town. Notable residents Fort Smith is the birthplace of Mark Carney, former governor of both the Bank of England and the Bank of Canada. See also List of municipalities in the Northwest Territories Fort Smith (District) Heliport References Notes External links Towns in the Northwest Territories Communities in the South Slave Region Hudson's Bay Company forts