* All times are based on Canada/Eastern EST.
Canada/Eastern
Canada/Eastern
Canada/Eastern
Speakers: Dalee Sambo Dorough, University of Alaska Normand Voyer, Université Laval This plenary explores potential pathways for diversifying our knowledge about the North. We begin by discussing how Arctic research can be Indigenized, and why it is crucial to foster genuine engagement of Indigenous Peoples when identifying and addressing priorities for future work. We then explore how Indigenous and scientific knowledge systems can be bridged through an investigation into the medical properties and chemistry of Northern plants. Indigenizing Arctic Research: Imperatives for Genuine Engagement of Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge Dalee Sambo Dorough, University of Alaska The presentation will address the contours of Indigenous Knowledge, the importance of the direct participation of Arctic Indigenous Peoples, and potential priorities for the future Arctic research. At the crossroads of knowledge: a molecular adventure in Nunavik and Nunavut Normand Voyer, Université Laval Contrarily to tropical ecosystems, organisms from northern ecosystems have been scarcely investigated by chemists to identify natural products they synthesized. By contrast, members of indigenous communities of Nunavik have developed an extensive knowledge on plants, lichens, animals and all other organisms living under harsh climate conditions. One example is the traditional use of the small labrador tea infusion for a good general health. Unfortunately, the North is warming up faster than anywhere else on the planet, impacting tremendously the life cycle of plants growing in northern ecosystems. What is the impact of climate change on the chemical substances composition of medicinal plants? How these changes alter their medicinal properties? How warmer temperatures affect the harvesting period? To answer to these questions and others, we have started a vast intersectorial research project that was coconstructed with members of the communities of Whapmagoostui First Nation and the Northern Village of Kuujjuarapik. We will describe the project origins and the synergies of combining traditional and scientific knowledge to the benefit of the northern communities and of the scientific community.
Canada/Eastern
2 parallel sessionsThis meeting brings together AC2024 attendees who are current, past, or prospective future participants and partners in the Youth Science Ambassador program. The Youth Science Ambassador program is an innovative initiative of Ocean Networks Canada which provides training, employment, and experience for youth (18-30) in ocean science and technology. The youth explore connections between world-leading ocean science, place-based Indigenous knowledge, and Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ). The program is implemented in a variety of communities in Inuit Nunangat and coastal British Columbia. Through new funding from Polar Knowledge Canada, the program will be launched in 5 communities in Nunatsiavut in 2024.
Canada/Eastern
9 parallel sessionsIn the Arctic, iluittuuniq, or wholesomeness, is essential for health and healthy communities. Indeed, health and wellbeing are influenced by interrelationships between physical, mental, cultural, social, ecological and structural determinants and dimensions of health. Therefore, this session will (1) explore what it means to be healthy in the Arctic; (2) characterize how health and wellbeing are interconnected with culture, language, environment, and Indigenous knowledge systems; (3) highlight promising programs and initiatives that support and foster Arctic health and wellbeing; and (4) demonstrate the relevance of considering health inside and outside of the health sector and the need to work across disciplines. Co-Chairs: Sherilee Harper, University of Alberta Amy Caughey, Nunavut Research Institute/University of Alberta Igah Sanguya, University of Alberta/Clyde River, Nunavut Jean Allen, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.
This session will discuss the future of northern research by southern institutions. What are the priorities? How do they intersect? How can the be facilitated? Where synergies don't exist, how can relationships be fostered and knowledge be mobilized? Where are the spaces for collaboration? These will be the questions addressed by the panelists. Co-Chairs: Gabrielle Slowey, York University Panelists: Karla Jessen Williamson. University of Saskatchewan. Stephanie Gora and Caroline Duncan. Engineering Perspectives on Conducting Northern Research. York University Kearney Coupland. Environmental Studies. St. Lawrence University. Gabrielle Slowey. York University.
In March 2018, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) released the National Inuit Strategy on Research (NISR). The NISR envisions research that empowers Inuit to meet the needs and priorities of our families and communities. We see achieving self-determination in research as the means for ensuring that research governance bodies, policies, and practices are consistent with this vision. This pivotal document outline the coordinated actions required to improve the way Inuit Nunangat research is governed, resourced, conducted, and shared. Further, it defines Inuit expectations for the role of research in our regions and communities and identifies areas for participation and action between Inuit and the research community. This session will bring together a diversity of voices to articulate Inuit-specific experiences, interests, and emerging processes related to Inuit Nunangat research and research policy. Co-Chairs: Nick Ottenhof, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami Eric Loring, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami Vanessa Chaperlin and Riley Winter "Developing the Inuit Nunangat University" Katherine Minich--“NISR in Action at Canada Inuit Nunangat United Kingdom research program Tom Roberts—“Fresh Water Data in Inuit Nunangat” Lucy Grey- “Atanniuvik- Establishing Nunavik’s new research governance organization”
International cooperation and coordination of prioirities are vital for research in the Arctic to understand and effectively respond to the climate crisis and other changes in the Arctic. From 2022 to 2026, the IASC in cooperation with many partners worldwide, is organising the decadal Arctic research planning process International Conference on Arctic Research Planning (ICARP) for the fourth time. ICARP IV is a community-wide undertaking to considers the most urgent knowledge gaps and research priorities for the next decade, to explore avenues to address and implement these research needs, and to identify opportunities for formalising new alliances and collaborative partnerships. The outcomes of the ICARP IV process will provide the foundation for developing the Arctic research goals for the 5th International Polar Year (IPY) 2032-33. This town hall session will highlight the progress of the ICARP IV process as well as the key steps in the planning process and visions for the 5th IPY. Co-Chairs: Gerlis Fugmann, International Arctic Science Committee Henry Burgess, NERC Arctic Office Panelists: Henry Burgess (NERC Arctic Office, UK) - Moderator Gerlis Fugmann (International Arctic Science Committee, Iceland) Jackie Dawson (University of Ottawa, Canada) Jennifer Spence (Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, Harvard Kennedy School, USA) David Hik (Polar Knowledge Canada, Canada Dalee Sambo Dorough (University of Alaska Anchorage, USA)
Salinity in Arctic seas is crucial for setting the stage for how the water masses stratify and mix. The large increase in freshwater in the oceans has made it imperative to investigate how this has and will change ocean dynamics. Further, the presence of warm salty Atlantic Water both modifies the stratification and provides a reservoir of heat that may impact the cryosphere. We invite presentations across a broad range of physical oceanography processes, with a focus on the Arctic and Sub-Arctic Seas. We welcome both observational and modelling studies. Topics include ocean dynamics near coastal environments (such as the Canadian North and Greenland) and open ocean (Beaufort Gyre, Arctic Ocean, North Atlantic Ocean). We encourage presentations with the following topics to apply: glacier-ocean interface, freshwater runoff, Atlantic Water circulation, heat/freshwater content and fluxes, sea ice and polynyas, boundary currents, vertical mixing/convection, and all other ocean dynamic topics! Co-Chairs: Laura Gillard, University of Alberta Paul Myers, University of Alberta Yarisbel Garcia Quintana, University of Toronto Erica Rosenblum, University of Toronto
"Nanuk Narratives" is an Inuit-led docuseries of short videos that delve into the deep and enduring relationship among Inuit and the Davis Strait polar bear subpopulation. The series highlights an array of lived experiences with polar bears, including long-time polar bear hunters, Elders, cooks, and youth across Nunavut, Nunavik, Nunatsiavut, and Greenland. These videos explore a diversity of topics, including Inuit observations of bear abundance and health, human-bear encounters and safety, tracking and hunting bears, cooking and eating bears, the cultural and emotional connections to bears, and Inuit recommendations for polar bear management. As a wildlife co-management-led film production, this initiative represents a unique collaboration among the Torngat Wildlife & Plants Co-Management Board, the Nunavik Marine Region Wildlife Board, the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board, as well as the Anguvigaq in Nunavik, and the Pangnirtung Hunter’s and Trappers Association. This screening is part of the official release of the Nanuk Narratives series. An oral presentation about the process of co-creating these videos will also be shared at ArcticNet. Presenters: David Poisey
There is a growing awareness that a fundamental rethink of our societies - including in Canada's north - is warranted as we approach planetary boundaries in pivotal areas such as climate change and biodiversity loss. Some parts of northern Canada were hit hard in the 2023 wildfire season and already systems in the north are showing strain in 2024, sparking new urgency and interest in sustainable energy options while concurrently ensuring these systems are climate-proofed and resilient for northern communities. This is being done through numerous ways including operationalizing renewable energy projects, community planning processes, and through both settler and Indigenous governance policies. This session will serve to highlight transformations underway in the North considering these challenges and opportunities, across a broad range of topics, including housing, transportation, electricity generation, distribution and utilization, and public policy. Co-Chairs: Alexandra Mallett, Carleton University Michael Ross, Yukon University Joe Collier, Yukon University
This panel, "Funding for Impact - A discussion about what impact means for research," aims to address the complexities of research funding in northern Canada. The session will provide a dual perspective by featuring insights from both funders and fund-seekers. The panel will include representatives from key northern funding organizations who will discuss their strategic approaches to funding and criteria for impact assessment. Complementing the funders, fund-seekers will share their experiences and perspectives, providing first-hand accounts of challenges faced, outcomes achieved, and the gaps that exist in the funding landscape. This session is designed to last 75 minutes and is structured to include individual presentations and a moderated panel discussion followed by an interactive audience Q&A. This format is intended to foster a better understanding of how funders value impact in research and how that is interpreted by fund-seekers, identifying both strengths and areas for improvement. Introductions: Alison Ronson, Program Director, Northern, Weston Family Foundation Moderator: Connie Tang, Director of Strategy and Business Development, Research Impact Canada Panellists: Tom Henheffer, Chief Executive Officer, Arctic Research Foundation Andrew Applejohn, Executive Director, Programs, Polar Knowledge Canada Brandon Laforest, Lead Specialist, Arctic Conservation, WWF Canada Fiona Schmiegelow, Dean, Applied Science and Management, YukonU Kelsey Wrightson, Executive Director, Dechinta Center for Research and Learning
Climate and landscape change are having profound effects on Arctic freshwater systems. Rising air and ground temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and permafrost thaw are modifying key hydrological controls, such as the duration of the ice-free season, evaporation, the intensity of spring snowmelt and summer rainfall events, and lateral flow pathways. As these factors control the movement of water, they also facilitate the delivery of organic and inorganic material to and through aquatic networks. The hydrological and water quality impacts of climate and landscape change are complex, varying both temporally and based on terrain conditions. Even so, understanding the nature and magnitude of these impacts is critical, as they directly affect the water security of Arctic communities. In this session, we invite submissions that report the effects of climate and landscape change on the hydrology and water quality of Arctic freshwater systems and the implications for water security. Co-Chairs: Erika Hille, Aurora Research Institute Mike Palmer, Aurora Research Institute Elise Devoie, Queens University Melissa Lafrenière, Queens University
Canada/Eastern
10 parallel sessionsAn interactive session designed to gather insights and feedback on a community-centered ethics training program for researchers working in Nunavut. This training aims to equip researchers with skills and knowledge needed to implement respectful and collaborative research that aligns with our communities’ unique realities, history, and values. Participants are asked to share their perspectives and help shape a curriculum that trains researchers to conduct their work in a manner that centres community values and cultivates community wellbeing.
*sponsored by Braiding Knowledges Canada This interactive Conversation Circle session convenes youth from across Inuit Nunangat to exchange experiences, arts-based stories, knowledge, tools and initiatives for their wellbeing through the interconnected themes of climate change, art and wellness. We are two programs led by and working with Inuit scholars, Youth advisors, artists, community members, and partners to support Inuit Youth to thrive. They live in the fastest warming place on Earth, the Arctic, affecting mental health, food security and sovereignty, culture and wellbeing. Yet Youth also are working on solutions and learning and healing alongside Elders from historical harms affecting all generations, as well as about survival and climate adaptation solutions. Young leaders advisory of the CINUK Project Inuit Youth, Wellness, and Environmental Stewardship from Tuktoyaktuk and the SeeChange Inuit team members alongside Youth past program participants are keen to learn from each other and build knowledge, skills, resilience and connections. Co-Chairs: Brian Kowikchuk, Inuvialuit Regional Corporation Maeva Gauthier, University of Victoria Bayan Alabda, SeeChange Initiative Carol Devine, SeeChange Initiative Speakers: Brian Kowikchuk, Inuvialuit Regional Corporation Naomi Tatty, Intercultural Health Lead, SeeChange Initiative
sponsored by the Weston Family Foundation In this session, we invite community-led monitoring, research, and guardians programs to share their methods and lessons learned with one another and the broader Arctic research community. In particular, presenters will focus on the technologies, team structures, and other Indigenous-centered techniques being used to support collecting and mobilizing data. Presenters will also share about their context and motivations, the types of data they are prioritizing, and project impacts. The goal of this session is to highlight the strengths across community-led monitoring and research projects, to identify common challenges, and to share ideas, tools, and frameworks that may be of use to other programs. Co-Chairs: Billy Nicoll, Arctic Eider Society Lauren Divine, Tribal Government of Saint Paul Island
In Canada, there has been a lack of coordination amongst Arctic research vessel providers to the detriment of the user base who need to multiply efforts to find information on vessel existence, funding scheme, availability, access, scheduling, equipment, logistics, and so on. Potential users find it difficult to plan and implement at-sea projects; while vessel providers meet challenges to recruit projects according to their mandate and ensure long-term viability. We invite submissions on what marine research infrastructure is available, what the needs of communities, universities, governments and other stakeholders are, how best to integrate multiple programs on single vessel, how to foster collaboration between ship operators, and best practices for coordination amongst all these parties to lower costs and maximize research outcomes. We also invite international partners to provide inputs by showcasing what is done outside of Canada with respect to the coordination of Arctic research vessels. Co-Chairs: Tom Henheffer, Arctic Research Foundation Anissa Merzouk, Amundsen Science Brent Else, MEOPAR
The Arctic is witnessing an increase in extraction and activities that require skilled labour. However there is an important shortage of skilled tradespeople and labour across various Arctic regions. Many state governments have made meeting labour demands a priority and have launched new programs designed to train and hire local and Indigenous peoples. At the same time, various labour, community, and business initiatives have taken important steps to reduce the diversity gap and offer skills training and employment opportunities. This sessions looks at these efforts and asks: What are the challenges and opportunities that exist in trying to increase the number of Indigenous peoples participating in the labour market? This is the focus of this session. Co-Chairs: Gabrielle Slowey, York University Magalie Quintal-Marineau, Centre Urbanisation Culture Société
Pollution issues in northern and Arctic regions and communities are a product of both local and distant sources. Mercury and other heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants, plastic, and black carbon are among the pollutants of concern for northern communities and people. These pollutants are assessed by research at different scales, including work with communities and through broader assessments of pollution across media, species, and regions. This work can provide information on pollutants in traditional/country foods, can help to support international initiatives and assessments that bring together experts to address transboundary pollution across the North, and may also be important to the implementation or evaluation of international treaties on pollution. This session invites presentations that address pollution at local, regional, national, and circumarctic scales, particularly those that work across these scales, and that contribute to knowledge and action on pollution in the North. Co-Chairs: Adam Morris, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada Brian Laird, University of Waterloo Eric Loring, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami
The Canada-Inuit Nunangat-United Kingdom (CINUK) Arctic Research Programme (2021-2025) has created an entirely new way of co-producing, co-delivering and co-funding international Arctic research in Canada. Supporting 13 projects with 150+ participants from over 60 organisations this has been a major $CAN18m+ strategic investment from both Canada and the United Kingdom. All are welcome at this session to hear from five of the key projects about how they planned and delivered their projects to help implement the National Inuit Strategy on Research, discover some key findings and see what they will do next. Co-Chairs: Henry Burgess, NERC Arctic Office, United Kingdom Anne Barker, National Research Council Carrie Grable, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami David Hik, Polar Knowledge Canada
The current climatic changes are drastically changing the planet’s ecosystems, especially in the High North. The rapidly warming Arctic has become a territory of great concern to Canada's and Allies’ human and military security. The Canadian Department of National Defence is increasing investments in Arctic research addressing several objectives while working together with Indigenous communities and armed forces. The objectives include making travel and mobility safer, providing sustainable energy, mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, building community resilience, etc. This 2.5-hour session will present many initiatives from collaborative vehicles to research activities that the Department of National Defence is managing and exploring. In addition, NATO's newly established Climate Change and Security Centre of Excellence (CCASCOE), based in Montreal. will speak to the centre's raison d'être and present cooperation opportunities for researchers at CCASCOE. This will also underline the international efforts being made to understand and protect the Arctic ecosystems for generations to come. Chair: Albert Chan, DRDC High-Level Directions Regarding Climate Change (Albert Chan) NATO’s Climate Change and Security Centre of Excellence (CCASCOE) (Dr. Andrew Sirjoosingh) Climate Change in High North Collaboration Opportunities Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) for the Arctic Advancing Safety and Security in the North: An Overview of the Centre for Security Science and its Arctic Research
Climate and landscape change are having profound effects on Arctic freshwater systems. Rising air and ground temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and permafrost thaw are modifying key hydrological controls, such as the duration of the ice-free season, evaporation, the intensity of spring snowmelt and summer rainfall events, and lateral flow pathways. As these factors control the movement of water, they also facilitate the delivery of organic and inorganic material to and through aquatic networks. The hydrological and water quality impacts of climate and landscape change are complex, varying both temporally and based on terrain conditions. Even so, understanding the nature and magnitude of these impacts is critical, as they directly affect the water security of Arctic communities. In this session, we invite submissions that report the effects of climate and landscape change on the hydrology and water quality of Arctic freshwater systems and the implications for water security. Co-Chairs: Erika Hille, Aurora Research Institute Mike Palmer, Aurora Research Institute Elise Devoie, Queens University Melissa Lafrenière, Queens University
The movie session presents three short films that gravitate around the topic of water. ‘Under the Sea’ brings us at the bottom of the ocean to explore the concern of a local hunter who has observed less and less seal near Kangiqliniq. ‘Living Waters’ presents through the eye on an Inuit Elder traditional fishing practices in the Padlei river located near the community of Taloyoak. ‘Imalirijit’ is an award-winning short documentary following the journey of a young Inuk-researcher studying water quality near Mittimatalik in the midst of climate change. Hosted by ArctiConnexion
Canada/Eastern
9 parallel sessionsThis Townhall session will provide an overview of the Canada-Inuit Nunangat-United Kingdom (CINUK) Arctic Research Programme (2021-2025). The Programme has created an entirely new way of co-producing, co-delivering and co-funding international Arctic research in Canada. Supporting 13 projects with 150+ participants from over 60 organisations this has been a major $CAN18m+ strategic investment from both Canada and the United Kingdom. A central aim of CINUK has been to implement the National Inuit Strategy on Research. The session will start with an engaging five minute film providing an overview of the CINUK Programme and introducing many of the teams and their work. There will then be a chance to hear directly from five of the projects, covering a broad range of the environmental topics within the programme, including human and animal health. The final section will be a panel discussion with the programme partners, sharing their insights from an organisational point of view on: collaborative international partnerships, challenges, successes and sharing learning for the future. Audience involvement warmly welcomed! Co-Chairs: Henry Burgess, NERC Arctic Office, United Kingdom Anne Barker, National Research Council Carrie Grable, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami David Hik, Polar Knowledge Canada Speakers: Henry Burgess, NERC Arctic Office, United Kingdom Anne Barker, Natural Resources Council Carrie Grable, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami Philip Marsh Wilfrid Laurier University, Canada Constanza Salvo Institut national de la recherche scientifique, Quebec Canada Guillaume Peyrasse Cardiff University, United Kingdom Alex Jardine Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, Ontario Susan Kutz, University of Calgary
sponsored by Nunavut Wildlife Management Board In this session, we invite community-led monitoring, research, and guardians programs to share their methods and lessons learned with one another and the broader Arctic research community. In particular, presenters will focus on the technologies, team structures, and other Indigenous-centered techniques being used to support collecting and mobilizing data. Presenters will also share about their context and motivations, the types of data they are prioritizing, and project impacts. The goal of this session is to highlight the strengths across community-led monitoring and research projects, to identify common challenges, and to share ideas, tools, and frameworks that may be of use to other programs. A 15-minute question-and-answer session will take place at the end of the presentations. Co-Chairs: Billy Nicoll, Arctic Eider Society Lauren Divine, Tribal Government of Saint Paul Island
In Canada, there has been a lack of coordination amongst Arctic research vessel providers to the detriment of the user base who need to multiply efforts to find information on vessel existence, funding scheme, availability, access, scheduling, equipment, logistics, and so on. Potential users find it difficult to plan and implement at-sea projects; while vessel providers meet challenges to recruit projects according to their mandate and ensure long-term viability. We invite submissions on what marine research infrastructure is available, what the needs of communities, universities, governments and other stakeholders are, how best to integrate multiple programs on single vessel, how to foster collaboration between ship operators, and best practices for coordination amongst all these parties to lower costs and maximize research outcomes. We also invite international partners to provide inputs by showcasing what is done outside of Canada with respect to the coordination of Arctic research vessels. Co-Chairs: Tom Henheffer, Arctic Research Foundation Anissa Merzouk, Amundsen Science Brent Else, MEOPAR
Arctic fish are integral to life and culture in the north. In many areas, these fish are facing rapid change, including altered temperature regimes, water levels, timing of key seasonal events, ice coverage, economic development, ship traffic, and shifting distributions of other aquatic life. Consequently, fish quality, availability, and access to fishing sites are also changing in some areas. The aim of this session is to provide an opportunity to share knowledge, perspectives, and current research on 'fish in a rapidly changing Arctic' and foster discussions on future research priorities and management efforts. Contributions can range from fish biology to human aspects of Arctic fisheries. We welcome the participation of northern knowledge holders and contributions across knowledge systems. To this end, researchers not based in the north are encouraged to invite, and where appropriate, help facilitate the participation of northern partners. Co-presentations are welcome. Co-Chairs: Matthew Gilbert, Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks Marianne Falardeau, TELUQ University Bonnie Hamilton, Environment and Climate Change Canada Jean-Sébastien Moore, Université Laval
Pollution issues in northern and Arctic regions and communities are a product of both local and distant sources. Mercury and other heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants, plastic, and black carbon are among the pollutants of concern for northern communities and people. These pollutants are assessed by research at different scales, including work with communities and through broader assessments of pollution across media, species, and regions. This work can provide information on pollutants in traditional/country foods, can help to support international initiatives and assessments that bring together experts to address transboundary pollution across the North, and may also be important to the implementation or evaluation of international treaties on pollution. This session invites presentations that address pollution at local, regional, national, and circumarctic scales, particularly those that work across these scales, and that contribute to knowledge and action on pollution in the North. Co-Chairs: Adam Morris, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada Brian Laird, University of Waterloo Eric Loring, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami
The current climatic changes are drastically changing the planet’s ecosystems, especially in the High North. The rapidly warming Arctic has become a territory of great concern to Canada's and Allies’ human and military security. The Canadian Department of National Defence is increasing investments in Arctic research addressing several objectives while working together with Indigenous communities and armed forces. The objectives include making travel and mobility safer, providing sustainable energy, mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, building community resilience, etc. This 2.5-hour session will present many initiatives from collaborative vehicles to research activities that the Department of National Defence is managing and exploring. In addition, NATO's newly established Climate Change and Security Centre of Excellence (CCASCOE), based in Montreal. will speak to the centre's raison d'être and present cooperation opportunities for researchers at CCASCOE. This will also underline the international efforts being made to understand and protect the Arctic ecosystems for generations to come. Chair: Albert Chan, DRDC Power & Energy Research for the Arctic. (Dr. Gisele Amow) Arctic Medicine, Clothing & Other Life Support (Wendy Sullivan/ Albert Chan) Defence Implications of Climate Change in Arctic (Dr. Brad Wallace)
The dramatic environmental changes in the Arctic in recent decades have been documented by scientific and Indigenous researchers, but it is challenging to convey the lived experience in writing. Film is more conducive to sharing Indigenous knowledge and lived experience through culturally consistent story-telling and art. We share collaboratively produced films—made fifty years apart—that demonstrate the resilience of St. Lawrence Island Yupik (northern Bering Sea) in response to rapid environmental change. A series of films made on the island and in the mid 1970s depict traditional subsistence and cultural activities in a time when sea ice and weather were reasonably predictable. Fifty years later, the ice is thinner and less predictable, and storms are stronger and more frequent. Films now in production depict cultural continuity as St. Lawrence Island Yupik adapt to rapid change. Panelists: Athena Copenhaver, Executive Director, Study of Environmental Arctic Change Leonard Kamerling, Curator of Film, University of Alaska Museum of the North Brendan P. Kelly, Science Director, Study of Environmental Arctic Change Vera Kingeekuk Metcalf, Executive Director, Eskimo Walrus Commission Deborah Raksany, Producer, Giant Screen Films
Join us for a comprehensive session on the research, practice, prospect, and value of ice and winter roads in Northern Canada. This session will explore innovative construction techniques, maintenance challenges, and socio-economic and environmental impacts associated with these crucial transportation links. We invite contributions that discuss the latest research in materials science, logistical strategies for building and maintaining roads under the current changing climate, the integration of Indigenous and local knowledge with modern technology to enhance their durability and safety, and the socio-economic value of these roads to communities and industries now and in the future. We invite knowledge holders, engineers, social and environmental scientists, practitioners, and policymakers to share insights, case studies, and forward-thinking solutions aimed at improving the resilience and efficiency of ice and winter roads. Co-Chairs: Homa Kheyrollah Pour, Wilfrid Laurier University Trevor Bell, Memorial University Mike English, Wilfrid Laurier University Robert Briggs, National Research Council
Climate and landscape change are having profound effects on Arctic freshwater systems. Rising air and ground temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and permafrost thaw are modifying key hydrological controls, such as the duration of the ice-free season, evaporation, the intensity of spring snowmelt and summer rainfall events, and lateral flow pathways. As these factors control the movement of water, they also facilitate the delivery of organic and inorganic material to and through aquatic networks. The hydrological and water quality impacts of climate and landscape change are complex, varying both temporally and based on terrain conditions. Even so, understanding the nature and magnitude of these impacts is critical, as they directly affect the water security of Arctic communities. In this session, we invite submissions that report the effects of climate and landscape change on the hydrology and water quality of Arctic freshwater systems and the implications for water security. Co-Chairs: Erika Hille, Aurora Research Institute Mike Palmer, Aurora Research Institute Elise Devoie, Queens University Melissa Lafrenière, Queens University
Canada/Eastern
This open session will provide the opportunity for Arctic Change attendees to learn about Arctic Pulse, a Canadian-led international science initiative. Arctic Pulse will bring together international Arctic scientists, government partners, academic institutions, non-profit and Indigenous organizations to address science gaps and questions that will inform the next International Polar Year (IPY). The session will begin with an introduction to Arctic Pulse followed by a town-hall style meeting to share ideas and pose questions.
Canada/Eastern
Poster sessions are an integral (and fun!) part of academic conferences or annual meetings, and an important opportunity for researchers at all career stages to present and discuss their work with other researchers in their field. Our poster session also includes the Graduate Student Poster Awards. The winners will be announced at the gala. There will be snacks and a cash bar at both sessions, from 5:00-7:00pm on the Tuesday and Wednesday of the conference.
