A new manufacturing plant in Elk Point, Alberta, is producing lightweight, weather-resistant concrete building blocks by blending hemp and other additives. Asinikahtamwak, meaning “works with rock” in Cree, is a joint venture with Frog Lake First Nations (51%), Natural Fibre Technologies (39%), and the Town of Elk Point (10%). The company aims to create sustainable, fire- and mould-resistant building materials.
CEO Tamrat Tekle explains that the partnership is well-suited to meet the affordable housing needs of the First Nation, located just east of the plant, while also boosting economic activity in Elk Point. The plant manufactures high-performance blocks that weigh half as much as traditional cinder blocks and offer better insulation, reduced noise, and resistance to cracking. The blocks are made from a mix of fibre, cement, water, and additives, providing added mould and fire resistance, which is important for areas with damp conditions like Frog Lake, where basements often get mouldy.
In addition to building blocks, the company is working on smaller projects like greenhouses and cabins, using other products like structural insulated panels. Asinikahtamwak opened in the summer of 2024, with plans to scale production from 250 to 1,000 blocks per day. The company is also exploring alternative fibres like flax, wheat, and bamboo, and aims to offer sustainable building solutions for both Frog Lake First Nations and surrounding communities, much like the bison did historically.
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