Chignecto Research is an independent research firm that specializes in historical land-based research. Chignecto Research has investigated Mi'kmaq, Maliseet and Passamoquoddy ties to more than 200 parcels of land throughout the four Atlantic Provinces, and potential Algonquin use and occupation of several sites in Ontario. Our approach to researching historical and Aboriginal land and resource matters is both focused and functional. Chignecto Research uses a two-pronged approach to historical research. The first part is to develop and/or update background or context documents provide the foundation of information for each province. The second part of the approach is to use a staged analytical framework for site-specific research that results in recommendations when there is a reasonable degree of certainty over the existence (or nonexistence) of Aboriginal interests.

The Chignecto Research project team combines in-depth knowledge of Aboriginal and land-based issues in the Atlantic Region, extensive experience in conducting historical research, and reliable research skills to ensure that results are thorough and complete. The principals are familiar and experienced with treaty and land issues including settlement, the needs and objectives of the federal government, and the interests of various Aboriginal communities throughout the Atlantic Region. The team includes the following:


Dr. Raymond Blake, Ph.D., who is the principal researcher of Chignecto Research. Dr. Blake is currently the Director of the Saskatchewan Institute of Public Policy at the University of Regina, and is the former Director of the Centre for Canadian Studies at Mount Allison University in New Brunswick. Born and raised in Newfoundland, Blake has a Bachelors degree from Memorial University and his Masters and Ph.D. in history from York University.

Gerry Kerr is the former Regional Director General of both Ontario and Atlantic Regions of the Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development (DIAND) and now runs a private consulting firm with Higham specializing in First Nations management and development.

John Higham, M.Sc. is the former director of the Rural and Small Town Programme at Mount Allison University before joining Kerr in private practice. Previously, Higham was Manager of Environment, Operational Policy, and Funding Arrangements in two regions of DIAND.

Tracey Wade, M.Sc. is a full-time planner and researcher with Chignecto. With a Masters degree in Rural Planning and Development, Wade has worked in a university research setting at Mount Allison, with DIAND, and now in a private consulting and research context.