The Selkirk First Nation is trying to improve the economic and work situation in Pelly Crossing through education and training.
Ventures to attract tourists to the community and keep them there appear to be one option for new economic development. Tourism is increasingly important to the overall Yukon economy. Pelly Crossing has some potential for development in this field since the community is on a major tourist route to Dawson City. The Selkirk First Nation's Heritage and Interpretive Centre is a cultural attraction that can divert tourists from the highway. Fort Selkirk has tourism and economic potential.
In addition, Pelly Crossing is located close to Ddhaw Ghro (formerly known as McArthur Wildlife Sanctuary), Ta'Tla Mun (formerly Tatlmain Lake), a high-quality fly-in sportfishing lake, and to Llutsaw (formerly Von Wilczek Lakes), an important wetland complex. All three areas lie in the Traditional Territory of the Selkirk First Nation and have been identified as Special Management Areas under their Final Agreement. Development of management plans for these areas may allow the First Nation to build on the ecotourism potential.
The economic development approach being taken in Pelly Crossing - looking for tourism opportunities, especially in ecotourism - will require people to upgrade their skills to operate small business ventures. The Selkirk Development Corporation is reviewing other economic opportunities for the community.
