Secretary Spotlight: Grant Lacombe
Posted on: May 15, 2026
Grant Lacombe brings a lifetime of experience and a deep-rooted connection to Métis culture to his role as Secretary of Culture and Harvesting. A resident of the Slave Lake region since 1978, he now lives in Canyon Creek with his wife of 26 years, Tammy. His commitment to Métis identity has been shaped by the guidance of his parents, Norman and Myrtle Lacombe, as well as the early influence of respected Métis leader Stan Daniels. Following a 35-year career in the oil and gas sector, Secretary Lacombe is widely recognized for his strong work ethic and dedication to community.
A lifelong harvester, Secretary Lacombe continues to pass on Traditional Knowledge by teaching younger generations, including his grandchildren, the importance of maintaining a connection to land and culture. This foundation informs his work at the provincial level, where he is advancing key Métis harvesting priorities. He has led progress on a province-wide trapping survey and is actively working with community committees to identify practical supports for trappers across Alberta.
Secretary Lacombe remains a strong advocate for meaningful Métis inclusion in provincial decision-making. He has been closely engaged with Minister Loewen’s office to push for improved consultation on wildlife and fishing matters, while also calling for greater accountability in government processes. His approach is grounded in ongoing dialogue with harvesters and Elders, recognizing that thoughtful, informed decision-making requires time, trust, and respect for lived experience.
He continues to represent Métis perspectives in discussions on wildlife management, including engagement with the Edson Alberta Wildlife Federation on cow-calf moose harvesting and broader moose recovery efforts. At the same time, he is advancing cultural priorities through initiatives such as continued work toward the Buffalo Treaty, including a planned gathering at Métis Crossing to bring Indigenous partners together to share Knowledge and strengthen relationships.
Secretary Lacombe likes to stay active by coming out and supporting the harvesting department by attending events such as the Jasper House District and the Slave Lake District women’s fishing events as well as sharing some of his knowledge by demonstrating his method of filleting fish.
Secretary Lacombe has also championed improved recognition of Métis history at the national level. After identifying a lack of representation of Métis scrip at the Canadian Museum of History, he initiated discussions with senior leadership to position the Otipemisiwak Métis Government as a partner in ensuring this history is accurately reflected in future exhibits.
His commitment to protecting Métis heritage is further reflected in his ongoing efforts to address the encroachment and damage to the Duhamel Cemetery. He continues to work with affected families to understand the extent of the situation and to support respectful and appropriate next steps.
In addition, Secretary Lacombe has taken action to advance historical recognition and reconciliation. He recently submitted a formal letter to the Town of St. Paul’s council, calling for the restoration of the community’s original name, St. Paul des Métis. This request reflects his broader commitment to ensuring Métis history is properly acknowledged and honoured in the places where it was established. He is the great-great-grandson of Laurent and Eleanor Garneau, one of the founding families of St. Paul des Métis.
Through his leadership, Secretary Lacombe continues to strengthen the connection between culture, land, and governance, ensuring that Métis traditions and priorities remain central to decision-making across Alberta.