This Backgrounder summarizes and explains the different ways for people to participate in the federal environmental assessment and regulatory review of the proposed Enbridge Northern Gateway Pipelines – the Joint Review Panel. Community hearings begin across BC in January 2012, and individuals and groups may participate by writing a Letter of Comment, making an Oral Statement, or by becoming an Intervenor (a full formal participant in the hearing process). This Backgrounder explains each of these ways to participate, and can help people decide which route is best suited to them.