* All times are based on Canada/Eastern EST.
Canada/Eastern
Canada/Eastern
Speakers: Luke Copland (University of Ottawa) and Pascale Roy-Léveillée (Université Laval) Glacier changes across the Canadian Arctic and beyond in a warming climate Luke Copland, University of Ottawa The Arctic is currently warming 3-4x faster than the global average, which is having significant impacts across the cryosphere. On glaciers in the Canadian Arctic we are seeing marked increases in surface melt, surface thinning, negative surface mass balance and a retreat from the ocean. This has included the loss of ~300 km2 of marine-terminating glacier termini over the past decade. However, there has been a variable velocity response: most glaciers are slowing down that terminate on land, but a few that terminate in the ocean are speeding up as they are nearing flotation due to recent thinning. In this presentation these changes are reviewed and placed in the context of pan-Arctic changes, where glaciers and the Greenland Ice Sheet are losing mass at a combined rate of up to 500 Gt yr-1 (1.4 mm yr-1 sea level rise equivalent). Local expressions of global change: community-level impacts of permafrost thaw in the Canadian North Pascale Roy-Léveillée, Université Laval Permafrost degradation raises international concern for its global impacts on the carbon and mercury cycles, yet it is at the local and regional scales that effects of thaw are observed and experienced first and most directly. There are more than 150 communities located in the continuous and discontinuous permafrost zones of Canada, of which many face permafrost hazards such as ground subsidence, slope failure, contaminant mobilisation, or icing expansion that can threaten infrastructure stability, reduce water quality, or impede access to traditional foods. The surface expression of permafrost thaw varies widely in nature and magnitude across space, reflecting important differences in permafrost conditions, ecosystem resilience, and physiographic context. This presentation reviews impacts of permafrost thaw using contrasting examples from Canadian communities and discusses how collaborative field-based efforts centered on community priorities can produce datasets and models that support northern resilience to permafrost thaw in a warming climate.
Canada/Eastern
Join the Nunavut Planning Commission for a discussion on the implications of the Recommended Nunavut Land Use Plan for research in Nunavut. This half-day session offers researchers an opportunity to engage with the Commission staff to gain insights into how the Recommended Plan may impact research proposals, regulatory requirements, and project access within the region. During the meeting, the Commission will provide updates on the overhaul of its Land Use Planning Implementation Tool (LUPIT) and conduct a survey to gather feedback from researchers using the system, aiming to enhance the online application experience for proponents.
Canada/Eastern
10 parallel sessions*Qikiqtaaluk Corporation Northern Indigenous communities are key sites of knowledge, solutions and action for addressing food security challenges and adapting to climate change impacts. Community members are working with partners at different scales (local, regional and territorial) to promote action around local food systems in ways that foster community health and well-being; strengthen ties to culture, land and spirituality; and support self-determination and self-reliance. This session invites a broad range of presentations that address research, perspectives, and initiatives related to northern food systems, food sovereignty and food security, in the context of climate adaptation, resilience and resurgence. We encourage contributions that explore themes of Indigenous knowledge, governance, youth, and/or gender. We are particularly interested in highlighting innovative research methods, policies, and success stories that promote knowledge sharing and network-building across northern regions. Co-Chairs: Kelly Skinner, University of Waterloo Sonia Wesche, University of Ottawa Andrew Spring, Wilfrid Laurier University
This session will be organized and led by the National Inuit Data Management Committee, which is comprised of representatives from Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., Makivvik, Nunatsiavut Government, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, Inuit Circumpolar Council, and Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada. The session will bring together members of Inuit communities, Inuit organizations, and research and funding institutions involved in Inuit research and data collection across Inuit Nunangat. The NIDMC will provide a short background on national and regional data initiatives and strategies, and a primer on Inuit data sovereignty. There will be a facilitated roundtable discussion where members of Inuit communities and organizations will be invited to share their experiences and stories related to Inuit data sovereignty, and input to ongoing data initiatives. Then, the discussion will be opened to all attendees to share lessons learned, best practices, questions, and stories related to data sovereignty. Co-Chairs: Tom Robert, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami Jenn Parrott, Inuvialuit Regional Corporation
In today's era of information overload, effectively communicating within Northern communities and with the general public can be a challenge. Despite the growing interest and various initiatives in the region, there exists an ongoing disconnect between the information being collected and what is communicated. Regardless of the challenges associated with meaningful communication both locally and elsewhere, finding effective and impactful methods to convey research is crucial. Hosted by the Aurora Research Institute in the NWT and Arctic Research Foundation, this session explores alternative ways of sharing and communicating Arctic science and community initiatives through creative outreach, education and storytelling. We welcome contributions from an array of perspectives including students, researchers, storytellers, and Indigenous and northern organizations-this may include case studies, success stories and lessons learned on communication, data sharing and outreach initiatives. Co-Chairs: Kaitlyn Van de Woestyne, Arctic Research Foundation Aneitha Mohammed, Aurora Research Institute Tom Henheffer, Arctic Research Foundation Jennifer Humphries, Aurora Research Institute
This side meeting will analyze the significant developments that unfolded during the past year in the Arctic region in relations to connectivity development, human security and natural resources development. The event will unveil the newest edition of the Review of the Arctic 2024, an annual analysis of salient developments that occurred in the Arctic region. This side meeting is open to all: come join us!
Northern coastlines and marine environments are undergoing major changes due to the melting of glaciers and the reduction in sea ice. These changes affect marine sedimentary processes and biological productivity. In order to better understand and predict coastal changes and their effects on the seabed, there is a need to reconstruct past marine environments and their links to climate variability. Conversely, interpreting past environmental and productivity changes as inferred from the paleo record requires monitoring present-day coastal and marine sedimentary processes. This session aims to bring together researchers and practitioners who are studying the modern physical processes leading to changes in the coastal and marine environments with those working on paleo records, with the ultimate goal of enhancing our understanding of changes occurring in northern environments. Co-Chairs: Alexandre Normandeau, Geological Survey of Canada Audrey Limoges, University of New Brunswick Patrick Lajeunesse, Université Laval Pierre-Arnaud Desiage, Geological Survey of Canada David Didier, Université du Québec à Rimouski
Scientific and research operations in the Arctic advance our understanding of how climate change affects people, the economy, and the environment. Several federal government organizations play important roles in conducting, enabling, or coordinating Arctic science. The operating context is changing with increased research activity, the move towards multidisciplinary research, the need to consider Indigenous Knowledge and co-develop research questions with communities, and the complex logistical challenges due to lack of infrastructure and climate change. This session will explore how the federal government will tackle new priorities and respond to the findings of recent reports form the Council of Canadian Academies and the Office of the Chief Science Advisor and House of Commons Standing Committee on Science and Research, including the possibility of setting Arctic research priorities for Canada. Co-Chairs: Sarah Heath, Natural Resources Canada David Mate, Natural Resources Canada Panelists: Rinaldo Jeanty, Assistant Deputy Minister, Lands and Minerals Sector, Natural Resources Canada / Sous-ministre adjoint, Secteur des terres et des minéraux, Ressources naturelles Canada Ranjana Sharma, Chief Scientist, Natural Resources Canada / Ranjana Sharma, Scientifique principale, Ressources naturelles Canada Geneviève Tanguay: Vice-Conseillère scientifique en chef, Bureau de la Conseillère scientifique en chef Vice-Chief Science Advisor, Office of the Chief Science Advisor Sylvie Lamoureux, Vice-President, Research, Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada / Sylvie Lamoureux, Vice-présidente, Recherche, Conseil de recherches en sciences humaines du Canada Robert Sinclair, Senior Arctic Official and DG Arctic, Eurasian and European Affairs, Global Affairs Canada / haut représentant pour l’Arctique et DG, Affaires de l’Arctiques, de l’Eurasie et de l’Europe, Affaires mondiales Canada
Building on the "Making research work for Nunavummiut" townhall hosted at ArcticNet ASM 2022, and following on demonstrations of the Isirvik Nunavut Research portal at ArcticNet ASM 2023, we aim to expand discussions with this townhall This Townhall is an opportunity ask questions and share experiences with representatives of the Nunavut Research Institute, Qaujigiartiit Health Research Centre, and McMaster University about how to better support Nunavummiut and visiting researchers. We welcome participation and feedback on: i) ways research is working for Nunavummiut, ii) approaches to addressing research fatigue in Nunavut, iii) working according to updated research licensing requirements; iv) using Isirvik to see what research is happening where; and, v) developing resources needed to enhance research capacity. This discussion will help inform a Nunavut-specific approach to implementing the National Inuit Strategy on Research with the goal of improving research engagement and outcomes for Nunavummiut Co-Chairs: Alexis Polidoro, McMaster University Jamal Shirley, Nunavut Research Institute Gwen Healey-Akearok, Qaujigiartiit Health Research Centre Panelists: Dr. Jessica Penney (Assistant Professor - Toronto Metropolitan University) Jaylene Ukpatiku (Board Member - Qaujigiartiit Health Research Centre) Juutai McKitrick (Manager, Research Training - Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated) Jamal Shirley (Director, Innovation and Research - Nunavut Research Institute)
Wildlife and their habitats are experiencing rapid changes in the Arctic due to climate change and the increased presence of human activities. Drones (or remotely piloted aircraft systems) offer a new vantage point for the monitoring and study of these important changes in the Arctic. As drones provide a relatively non-invasive, easy-to-use, and inexpensive tool to monitor remote ecosystems, their use has increased rapidly. For example, drone photogrammetry is used to calculate the body condition of narwhals and other Arctic wildlife, monitor eroding Arctic coastlines and calculate precise measurements of permafrost thaw, snow depth and hydrology change, becoming one of the world leading tools to capture habitat change in tundra ecosystems. Most importantly, drone research is accessible and leading to several collaborative and Indigenous community-led research and monitoring projects across the Canadian Arctic. This ArcticNet session aims at providing an inclusive space for presentations from different fields. Co-Chairs: Marianne Marcoux, Fisheries and Oceans Canada Marie Auger-Méthé, University of British Columbia Isla Myers-Smith, University of British Columbia Dustin Whalen, Natural Resources Canada
NSERC PermafrostNet and NSERC CREATE LEAP are combining forces to offer a professional skills training session for those interested in permafrost and science-based careers in Canada's North. As northern communities witness and experience the accelerating impacts of permafrost thaw on infrastructure and ecosystems, the urgency to grow the workforce of professionals trained to address these challenges grows in tandem. These professionals are called upon to be adaptable to emergent and ongoing issues, able to apply multi-disciplinary solutions, and comfortable engaging and collaborating in a northern context. This session will be delivered by experienced PermafrostNet researchers, LEAP instructors, and northern collaborators, who will provide guidance and advice on how to secure and sustain rewarding careers that aim to improve climate resiliency while fostering collaboration. Join us as we get a fuller picture about the career options that exist in this industry, and the pathways you can take within it. Co-Chairs: Tristan MacLean, NSERC PermafrostNet Elham Gharji, NSERC CREATE LEAP Panelists Steve Kokelj - Northwest Territories Geological Survey Camellia Gray - Inuvialuit Settlement Region Erika Hille - Aurora Research Institute, Director - Western Arctic Research Centre Nick Brown - NSERC PermafrostNet Data scientist
Over the past several decades snow and glaciers within the northern hemisphere have evolved in response to warming air temperatures. Quantifying and characterizing these changes are important for understanding current, and future cryospheric evolution, which have cascading impacts to downstream terrestrial and marine environments. Environment and Climate Change Canada, together with the Canadian Space Agency, are developing a new Canadian radar satellite mission (the Terrestrial Snow Mass Mission; TSMM) to pursue these objectives. We seek presentations that report ongoing terrestrial snow and surface glacier mass balance changes and their implications in the Arctic, with an emphasis on information that will help tune the science objectives of TSMM in the Arctic. Delineating impacts on local communities, from traditional knowledge or testimonies, is greatly encouraged. Methodically diverse approaches encompassing field observations, Indigenous knowledge, modeling and/or remote sensing techniques are welcomed. Co-Chairs: Benoit Montpetit, Environment and Climate Change Canada Danielle Hallé, University of Waterloo Courtney Bayer, Environment and Climate Change Canada Wesley Van Wychen, University of Waterloo Peter Wray, University of Waterloo
Canada/Eastern
9 parallel sessionsNorthern Indigenous communities are key sites of knowledge, solutions and action for addressing food security challenges and adapting to climate change impacts. Community members are working with partners at different scales (local, regional and territorial) to promote action around local food systems in ways that foster community health and well-being; strengthen ties to culture, land and spirituality; and support self-determination and self-reliance. This session invites a broad range of presentations that address research, perspectives, and initiatives related to northern food systems, food sovereignty and food security, in the context of climate adaptation, resilience and resurgence. We encourage contributions that explore themes of Indigenous knowledge, governance, youth, and/or gender. We are particularly interested in highlighting innovative research methods, policies, and success stories that promote knowledge sharing and network-building across northern regions. Co-Chairs: Kelly Skinner, University of Waterloo Sonia Wesche, University of Ottawa Andrew Spring, Wilfrid Laurier University
Natural science research efforts in the Arctic often overlook the perspectives and priorities of Arctic Indigenous communities. Community-based research methods can create a collaborative framework for a two-way knowledge exchange between researchers and local experts, allowing both parties to contribute and learn from each other to produce a better understanding of a given topic. However, methodologies for such research are not well documented or shared within the natural science community. This session aims to bring together people conducting, supporting, or exploring community-based research to share and discuss methodologies and practices, including community engagement strategies and fieldwork techniques. We encourage presentations from community members and institutional researchers engaged in a natural science research project. Co-Chairs: May Wang, Dalhousie University Eric Oliver, Dalhousie University Benjamin Larue, University of Montana
In today's era of information overload, effectively communicating within Northern communities and with the general public can be a challenge. Despite the growing interest and various initiatives in the region, there exists an ongoing disconnect between the information being collected and what is communicated. Regardless of the challenges associated with meaningful communication both locally and elsewhere, finding effective and impactful methods to convey research is crucial. Hosted by the Aurora Research Institute in the NWT and Arctic Research Foundation, this session explores alternative ways of sharing and communicating Arctic science and community initiatives through creative outreach, education and storytelling. We welcome contributions from an array of perspectives including students, researchers, storytellers, and Indigenous and northern organizations-this may include case studies, success stories and lessons learned on communication, data sharing and outreach initiatives. Co-Chairs: Kaitlyn Van de Woestyne, Arctic Research Foundation Aneitha Mohammed, Aurora Research Institute Tom Henheffer, Arctic Research Foundation Jennifer Humphries, Aurora Research Institute
The Arctic is experiencing the highest rate of warming globally due to climate change, which could lead to ice-free summers as early as 2035. While climate change is causing rapid shifts in seasonal sea ice, which can particularly affect ice-dependent species, it has already caused shifts in density, distribution, and abundance of novel species to the Arctic such as killer whales. With the ongoing loss of sea ice, human activity is also rising in the Arctic, leading to higher chances of both direct and indirect disturbances to marine life. Changes in sea ice, range expansion of southern species, and increased human activity all pose significant threats to culturally important and at-risk species, underscoring the need to fill the many knowledge gaps for Arctic species. The Arctic is an understudied region in part due to the huge costs of monitoring wide-ranging, low-density, and sometimes cryptic species that occur in very difficult to access places. This session will focus on methodological advances that can be used to study marine Arctic species in the face of these challenges. Examples may include emerging technologies such as remote data collection apps, enhanced satellite imagery, UAVs, thermal imaging cameras or analytical advances to handle large, sparse, or intermittent datasets. While the aim of this session is to highlight examples of new methods that have been successfully implemented in Arctic research, it also to highlight ongoing challenges or methods that didn’t go as planned - and why they didn’t work. We hope work presented here will broaden the application of emerging technologies. Co-Chairs: Annie Loosen, Wildlife Conservation Society Canada Stephen Insley, Wildlife Conservation Society Canada
Climate change is driving unprecedented changes in sea ice coverage throughout the Arctic. With these decreases in sea ice, corresponding human activity has significantly intensified. Beneath the surface, these influences are readily heard, with vessel noise and wind events increasingly contributing to an already dynamic soundscape. However, the extent to which changes in the Arctic soundscape are affecting marine species is only beginning to be understood. This session features work that addresses existing knowledge gaps; both in our understanding of what comprises Arctic marine soundscapes, and how noise, in all its forms, affects marine organisms. This includes, but is not limited to, studies pertaining to noise exposure levels, behavioral responses to noise, and the physiological effects of chronic noise. Research devoted to identifying the acoustic consequences of a changing Arctic is crucial to developing appropriate mitigation strategies and safeguarding the Arctic's marine ecosystems into the future. Co-Chairs: Deborah Sharpe, University of Victoria, Widlife Conservation Society Canada Alex Hare, University of Victoria, Widlife Conservation Society Canada
Cambridge Bay (Ikaluktutiak), Nunavut, has become a hub for natural science research, with CHARS providing critical access to the surrounding tundra, rivers, lakes, and coastal ocean. Community members have participated actively in research such that scientists and community leaders are now commonly working together on relevant topics for residents, who travel on the land to hunt, fish, and participate in other traditional activities. In this session, we invite all researchers and community members engaged in natural science research in and around Cambridge Bay to present their projects and results. Papers are encouraged from all disciplines, including freshwater, terrestrial, marine, cryosphere, ecosystem, and atmospheric studies. Community-led and community-integrated projects are welcome, as are projects that have not yet connected directly with the community. By bringing together the regional research community, we aim to foster synergies and strengthen relationships between disciplines and perspectives. Co-Chairs: Kristina Brown, University of Manitoba Brent Else, University of Calgary Milla Rautio, Université du Québec à Chicoutimi
*Canadian Museum of Nature Indigenous stewardship and conservation initiatives within the Hudson - James Bay Lowlands and adjacent marine areas have stimulated research about carbon, biodiversity, and causes and consequences of environmental change. Across this region, unique terrestrial, wetland, and marine ecosystems support critical habitat and provide globally significant carbon stocks and sinks. However, this region is undergoing climate-driven changes to sea ice, ecohydrology, and permafrost, together with economic development, that may bring new challenges to First Nations communities and drive feedbacks to the global carbon budget. Understanding the impacts and planning for a sustainable future require bridging Indigenous and scientific knowledge systems and extending analyses across boreal - peatland - coastal zone - bay transitions. This session aims to bring together researchers across disciplines and spanning terrestrial, aquatic, and marine realms, to share knowledge of the region and relevant knowledge garnered elsewhere. Co-Chairs: Zouzou Kuzyk, University of Manitoba Sarah Finkelstein, University of Toronto Martin Lawrence, Mushkegowuk Council Alison Cassidy, Parks Canada Nicole Balliston, University of Waterloo
The terrestrial High Arctic undergoes ecological changes under various natural and anthropogenic forces, with significant implications for biodiversity. As this system continues to evolve, it is essential to leverage a variety of tools, such as advanced technologies, community-based monitoring, and ecological modeling, to fully understand ecological shifts and formulate effective conservation strategies. We must protect biodiversity to ensure future generations inherit a richer or at least unimpaired natural legacy. This session welcomes contributions from diverse disciplines aimed at enhancing understanding and conservation of the High Arctic tundra's biodiversity. We seek diverse perspectives from Arctic community members, policymakers, and researchers from all career stages, aiming to foster a collaborative dialogue that reflects on past experiences, addresses current challenges, and outlines future directions for conserving the biodiversity of the terrestrial High Arctic. Co-Chairs: Émilie Desjardins, Université du Québec à Rimouski Andrew Tam, Department of National Defence Dominique Berteaux, Université du Québec à Rimouski
Arctic glaciers are key contributors to global sea level rise, with an acceleration in their decline over the past two decades. However, there are still uncertainties concerning the internal and external factors which control glacier dynamics, such as surging and seasonal velocity variations, and in particular how these are changing in a warming climate. This limits our ability to assess future glacier contributions to sea level rise. Recent advances in remote sensing data availability and field methodologies have enabled greater understanding of ice dynamics, as well as for derivative processes such as iceberg production and glacier lake outburst floods. In this session we invite presentations on Arctic glacier dynamics and associated changes, including glacier surges, glacier-ocean interactions, iceberg behaviour, and glacial hazards, among others. We welcome a broad array of methodologically diverse approaches, including Indigenous knowledge, field observations, remote sensing, and modelling techniques. Co-Chairs: Brittany Main, University of Waterloo Luke Copland, University of Ottawa Laura Thomson, Queens University
Canada/Eastern
9 parallel sessionsNorthern Indigenous communities are key sites of knowledge, solutions and action for addressing food security challenges and adapting to climate change impacts. Community members are working with partners at different scales (local, regional and territorial) to promote action around local food systems in ways that foster community health and well-being; strengthen ties to culture, land and spirituality; and support self-determination and self-reliance. This session invites a broad range of presentations that address research, perspectives, and initiatives related to northern food systems, food sovereignty and food security, in the context of climate adaptation, resilience and resurgence. We encourage contributions that explore themes of Indigenous knowledge, governance, youth, and/or gender. We are particularly interested in highlighting innovative research methods, policies, and success stories that promote knowledge sharing and network-building across northern regions. Co-Chairs: Kelly Skinner, University of Waterloo Sonia Wesche, University of Ottawa Andrew Spring, Wilfrid Laurier University
Natural science research efforts in the Arctic often overlook the perspectives and priorities of Arctic Indigenous communities. Community-based research methods can create a collaborative framework for a two-way knowledge exchange between researchers and local experts, allowing both parties to contribute and learn from each other to produce a better understanding of a given topic. However, methodologies for such research are not well documented or shared within the natural science community. This session aims to bring together people conducting, supporting, or exploring community-based research to share and discuss methodologies and practices, including community engagement strategies and fieldwork techniques. We encourage presentations from community members and institutional researchers engaged in a natural science research project. Co-Chairs: May Wang, Dalhousie University Eric Oliver, Dalhousie University Benjamin Larue, University of Montana
Co-created by Inuit partners/representatives across Inuit Nunangat, the Inuit Qaujisarnirmut Pilirijjutit (IQP) is the first and only Inuit-led, governed and directed research and training program in the world. Currently, the program has successfully launched two Calls for Proposals and has funded 21 projects. This session brings together IQP project leaders and/or team members to share their project results. This is followed by an open discussion with session participants about the importance and impact of Inuit-led and Inuit-determined research, as well as the sharing of reflections on the challenges, successes and lessons-learned from developing and implementing an Inuit-led research program. Co-Chairs: Aisha Sada, ArcticNet Carla Pamak, Nunatsiavut Government Brenda Anderson, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. Presentations: Carla & Brenda: Introduction - What is the IQP?, Calls for Proposals, Contacts/Resources Peggy Adjun - Kitikmeot Inuit Qaujimatuqangit Framework for Polar Bear Management Scott Grant - Qikiqtani inshore fisheries surveys Terry Noah - The effects of coastal storms on beaches in and around Cabin/Camping areas, Ausuittuq, Nunavut Joseph Townsley - Kaujivalliajut nillikulunnik | Getting to know little geese James May - Marralik Estuary Beluga Project Vero Perez - Inuit knowledge and molecular biology addressing industrial impacts in the Kivalliq
In today's era of information overload, effectively communicating within Northern communities and with the general public can be a challenge. Despite the growing interest and various initiatives in the region, there exists an ongoing disconnect between the information being collected and what is communicated. Regardless of the challenges associated with meaningful communication both locally and elsewhere, finding effective and impactful methods to convey research is crucial. Hosted by the Aurora Research Institute in the NWT and Arctic Research Foundation, this session explores alternative ways of sharing and communicating Arctic science and community initiatives through creative outreach, education and storytelling. We welcome contributions from an array of perspectives including students, researchers, storytellers, and Indigenous and northern organizations-this may include case studies, success stories and lessons learned on communication, data sharing and outreach initiatives. Co-Chairs: Kaitlyn Van de Woestyne, Arctic Research Foundation Aneitha Mohammed, Aurora Research Institute Tom Henheffer, Arctic Research Foundation Jennifer Humphries, Aurora Research Institute
The Arctic is experiencing the highest rate of warming globally due to climate change, which could lead to ice-free summers as early as 2035. While climate change is causing rapid shifts in seasonal sea ice, which can particularly affect ice-dependent species, it has already caused shifts in density, distribution, and abundance of novel species to the Arctic such as killer whales. With the ongoing loss of sea ice, human activity is also rising in the Arctic, leading to higher chances of both direct and indirect disturbances to marine life. Changes in sea ice, range expansion of southern species, and increased human activity all pose significant threats to culturally important and at-risk species, underscoring the need to fill the many knowledge gaps for Arctic species. The Arctic is an understudied region in part due to the huge costs of monitoring wide-ranging, low-density, and sometimes cryptic species that occur in very difficult to access places. This session will focus on methodological advances that can be used to study marine Arctic species in the face of these challenges. Examples may include emerging technologies such as remote data collection apps, enhanced satellite imagery, UAVs, thermal imaging cameras or analytical advances to handle large, sparse, or intermittent datasets. While the aim of this session is to highlight examples of new methods that have been successfully implemented in Arctic research, it also to highlight ongoing challenges or methods that didn’t go as planned - and why they didn’t work. We hope work presented here will broaden the application of emerging technologies. Co-Chairs: Annie Loosen, Wildlife Conservation Society Canada Stephen Insley, Wildlife Conservation Society Canada
Cambridge Bay (Ikaluktutiak), Nunavut, has become a hub for natural science research, with CHARS providing critical access to the surrounding tundra, rivers, lakes, and coastal ocean. Community members have participated actively in research such that scientists and community leaders are now commonly working together on relevant topics for residents, who travel on the land to hunt, fish, and participate in other traditional activities. In this session, we invite all researchers and community members engaged in natural science research in and around Cambridge Bay to present their projects and results. Papers are encouraged from all disciplines, including freshwater, terrestrial, marine, cryosphere, ecosystem, and atmospheric studies. Community-led and community-integrated projects are welcome, as are projects that have not yet connected directly with the community. By bringing together the regional research community, we aim to foster synergies and strengthen relationships between disciplines and perspectives. Co-Chairs: Kristina Brown, University of Manitoba Brent Else, University of Calgary Milla Rautio, Université du Québec à Chicoutimi
Indigenous stewardship and conservation initiatives within the Hudson - James Bay Lowlands and adjacent marine areas have stimulated research about carbon, biodiversity, and causes and consequences of environmental change. Across this region, unique terrestrial, wetland, and marine ecosystems support critical habitat and provide globally significant carbon stocks and sinks. However, this region is undergoing climate-driven changes to sea ice, ecohydrology, and permafrost, together with economic development, that may bring new challenges to First Nations communities and drive feedbacks to the global carbon budget. Understanding the impacts and planning for a sustainable future require bridging Indigenous and scientific knowledge systems and extending analyses across boreal - peatland - coastal zone - bay transitions. This session aims to bring together researchers across disciplines and spanning terrestrial, aquatic, and marine realms, to share knowledge of the region and relevant knowledge garnered elsewhere. Co-Chairs: Zouzou Kuzyk, University of Manitoba Sarah Finkelstein, University of Toronto Martin Lawrence, Mushkegowuk Council Alison Cassidy, Parks Canada Nicole Balliston, University of Waterloo
The terrestrial High Arctic undergoes ecological changes under various natural and anthropogenic forces, with significant implications for biodiversity. As this system continues to evolve, it is essential to leverage a variety of tools, such as advanced technologies, community-based monitoring, and ecological modeling, to fully understand ecological shifts and formulate effective conservation strategies. We must protect biodiversity to ensure future generations inherit a richer or at least unimpaired natural legacy. This session welcomes contributions from diverse disciplines aimed at enhancing understanding and conservation of the High Arctic tundra's biodiversity. We seek diverse perspectives from Arctic community members, policymakers, and researchers from all career stages, aiming to foster a collaborative dialogue that reflects on past experiences, addresses current challenges, and outlines future directions for conserving the biodiversity of the terrestrial High Arctic. Co-Chairs: Émilie Desjardins, Université du Québec à Rimouski Andrew Tam, Department of National Defence Dominique Berteaux, Université du Québec à Rimouski
A solid foundation of geoscientific knowledge is necessarothy to adapt to environmental changes from a warming climate and to advance economic development in the North. Mapping and modelling of geology and permafrost properties helps in understanding changes to the landscape, movement of groundwater and contaminants, and fluxes of greenhouse gases. Better knowledge of these properties will support decision-making around construction and maintenance of infrastructure, development of geothermal resources, environmental assessments, and land-use planning. This session invites presenters to discuss geoscientific research conducted to help understand the impacts, risks and opportunities of climate change and to ensure climate-resilient communities, infrastructure, and resource development in the Arctic. Co-Chairs: Anne-Marie Lablanc, Natural Resources Canada Hugh Brendan O’Neill, Natural Resources Canada
Canada/Eastern
Join us for an evening of traditional Inuit performances, sponsored by the Arctic Inspiration Prize, award handouts, remarks from President Natan Obed of Inuit Tapiriit Kantami, and never-before-seen ArcticNet footage! *Please note you must purchase a ticket separate from your registration to the gala to attend. Your gala ticket is not included with your conference registration. Please visit the registration desk if you are in need of a ticket.
