Program

Julian Forrest (Edmonton, Alberta) and Julie Forgues (Moncton, New Brunswick) met aboard a tall ship that traveled through the Svalbard archipelago in June 2023 as part of The Arctic Circle artist residency program (ACR). Together, they formed an artistic collaboration dedicated to expanding the dialogue around the state of the Arctic through art. In October, 2024, alongside two colleagues from the TAC, they exhibited during the Arctic Circle Assembly 2024 in Reykjavik, Iceland. The works presented at this year’s ArcticNet Annual Scientific Meeting emerged from their experiences in the Arctic, offering artistic perspectives that both reflect on and illuminate the planet’s current condition—where art and science converge in an ongoing conversation that continues to shed light on our changing world. As a collaborative, they are available for conferences, exhibitions, artist talks, and so forth. Please feel free to reach out if you are interested. julianforrest.com, insta : @julianforrest julieforgues.ca, insta : @_julie_forgues_ @monpunctum

Special Event

The Canada Water Agency is collaboratively developing the National Freshwater Data Strategy. We are interested to hear from you.

Side meeting

Maritime tourism throughout the Arctic is increasing, a trend that is predicted to continue due to reduced sea ice making many areas more accessible. Tourism growth poses potential risks and benefits, for example, introduction of underwater noise from increased vessel traffic can affect marine species and visitors to remote communities can strain local infrastructure and resources, however, it can also lead to job creation and boost local economies. Mitigation of impacts on the environment and for Arctic communities is required, and conversations need to be held gathering perspectives from Inuit and northerners, academics, industry professionals, ship operators, government researchers, and policy makers to develop a tourism industry that works for all. We aim for this session to encourage critical discussion on the state of maritime tourism in the Arctic including environmental and community impacts, potential opportunities and future policy directions, and welcome audience inputs on a broad range of topics. Chair: Dr Lauren McWhinnie, Heriot-Watt University Panel speakers: Kiana Foster, Community Ambassador Malayah Maloney, Community Ambassador Dr Verena Meraldi, HX Expeditions Henrik Lund, HX Foundation Drummond Fraser, Transport Canada

Panel Discussion
Economy

Understanding the physical and biogeochemical changes occurring along Arctic coastlines is essential to assessing the broader impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems and biodiversity. Rapid warming, diminishing sea ice and glaciers, increasing storm intensity and frequency, and accelerating permafrost degradation are transforming these sensitive coastal environments. These unprecedented changes are already impacting infrastructure, communities, Inuit livelihoods, and vulnerable ecosystems across the Arctic coastal zone. Permafrost thaw, in particular, poses serious risks to both natural systems and built environments, intensifying the need for informed adaptation strategies. Supporting effective planning, mitigation, and resilience-building efforts requires robust research and close collaboration with Indigenous communities. This reoccurring session aims to bring together researchers, Indigenous partners, and community members who are studying, monitoring, or directly experiencing environmental changes. Co-Chairs: Dustin Whalen, Natural Resources Canada David Didier, Université du Québec à Rimouski Stéphanie Coulombe, Polar Knowledge Canada

Topical Session
Ecosystems

Climate change is directly and indirectly impacting nearly every environmental system and process in the Arctic, including the interactions between invertebrate vectors, hosts, and pathogens. Vectors such as mosquitoes, black flies, midges, and ticks are exquisitely sensitive to climate change, responding in various ways, such as changing phenology and increasing species richness and abundance. Shifts in vector diversity and ecology can alter disease dynamics across various mammalian and avian hosts in the Arctic. We welcome contributions investigating aspects of vector-host-pathogen interactions and dynamics in terrestrial and marine environments. Co-Chairs: Dani Nowosad, University of Calgary Thomas McIlwraith, University of Guelph

Topical Session
Ecosystems

The marine ecosystems of the Tuvaijuittuq Marine Protected Area and of the Lasting Ice Area are intricately linked to their adjacent terrestrial margin, and are connected by hydrological flows, cryosphere dynamics, species interactions and pathways, and shared biogeochemical processes. Spanning the land-to-sea continuum, these systems are undergoing rapid changes due to climate warming, with cascading effects on their structure and function. From the dynamic gateways of the Arctic Ocean to its most persistent refuge, this region now faces unprecedented environmental pressures, with far-reaching consequences for biodiversity, Indigenous food systems, and global climate regulation. This session invites contributions that explore the physical, chemical, and biological processes driving ecosystem changes across the region and investigate how environmental change-including cryosphere and freshwater dynamics-propagates across spatial and temporal scales, from local observations to pan-Arctic and global implication Co-Chairs: Mathieu Ardyna, Université Laval - Takuvik David Babb, University of Manitoba Maxime Geoffroy, Memorial University of Newfoundland Catherine Girard, Université du Québec à Chicoutimi Audrey Limoges, University of New Brunswick

Topical Session
Ecosystems

Canada has an opportunity to lead in the North as global interest in the region intensifies. The Arctic's growing strategic importance highlights the urgent need for future-focused infrastructure development. From roads and ports to icebreakers, research vessels, security sensors and environmental monitoring stations, smart investments can unlock the Arctic's potential. These efforts are key to building a prosperous North with thriving communities, advancing reconciliation, addressing and adapting to climate change, and reinforcing Canadian sovereignty and defense. This session will explore how Canada can capitalize on this moment: identifying priorities and opportunities, showcasing innovation, and aligning infrastructure initiatives with long-term national and Indigenous goals. We invite submissions on utilizing multi-use infrastructure, infrastructure development and improvement, balancing sovereignty, security and Indigenous rights, improving situational awareness and related topics. Co-Chairs: Tom Henheffer, Arctic Research Foundation Alex Dalziel, Macdonald-Laurier Institute Alexandre Forest, Amundsen Science Brent Else, University of Calgary

Topical Session
Infrastructures

Amidst an age of rapid information exchange, effectively communicating Arctic science within Northern communities, and to broader audiences, remains a persistent challenge. While interest in Arctic research continues to grow, a disconnect often exists between data collection and the way findings are shared. This session, will explore innovative and culturally grounded approaches to outreach, education, and storytelling. We invite contributions from students, researchers, artists, educators, Indigenous knowledge holders, and northern organizations. Presentations may include case studies, community-led initiatives, and reflections on best practices for science communication, data sharing, and meaningful engagement. Co-Chairs: Christine Cox, Arctic Research Foundation Tracy Thomas, Arctic Research Foundation Kaitlyn Van De Woestyne, Arctic Research Foundation

Topical Session
Other

In Canada, weather and ice monitoring services have been designed and managed according to southern-based standards and priorities. For example, northern-based weather stations are located at community airports to support aviation, not for local decision-making. As a result, Indigenous-led community-based environmental monitoring programs are starting to fill these gaps across the North. This Town Hall will explore ways of creating and sustaining a scaled partnership approach to delivering weather and ice services in Canada's North. We invite those interested in tailoring weather and ice services to meet northern community, transportation, and safety needs to join, including community members, Indigenous organizations, researchers, government, industry, and non-profit organizations. Our goal is to facilitate discussion to envision a partnership model that connects local, regional, and national scale expertise to create relevant, accessible, and usable weather services that meet diverse needs. Co-Chairs: Gita Ljubicic, McMaster University Katherine Wilson, SmartICE Derek Mueller, Carleton University

Town Hall
Other

In 2025, in partnership with the Polar Continental Shelf Program (PCSP), the University of Alberta launched a Community of Practice aimed at improving field safety for researchers operating in Canada's Arctic. Through the provision of logistics and equipment services, PCSP facilitates access for researchers, military and other operators in the north to some of the most isolated, remote areas in Canada's Arctic, fulfilling its mandate to support Arctic science and exercise Canadian sovereignty. As leaders in Arctic science, University of Alberta researchers advance knowledge in priority areas such as climate change and wildlife preservation; in 2024, the University launched a renewed approach to field research health and safety training. With demand for Arctic research projected to increase eight-fold by 2040 and the complexities of undertaking research in the Arctic being amplified by climate change, this town hall session will set a path forward towards a "safety-first" culture in the Arctic research community. Co-Chairs: Sarah Heath, Natural Resources Canada Michelle Rooker, University of Alberta

Town Hall
Well-being

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 Sonja Ostertag, University of Waterloo Tiff-Annie Kenny, Université de Montréal

Topical Session
Well-being

Join us for an open session featuring the Enhanced Maritime Situational Awareness (EMSA) system — a collaborative geographic information system co-developed with Indigenous communities across Canada to support real-time maritime awareness. Explore the system hands-on through interactive displays and hear directly from community partners about how EMSA is being used on the ground across the North.

Side meeting

This will be our panel discussion finalizing our 5 year project with Genome Canada. Wildlife genome information is extremely valuable for environmental decision making, yet much remains unused for this purpose. This project has drawn together partners with expertise across disciplines, cultures and organizations, building upon team strengths in Arctic observation and monitoring, biology, conservation, cyber-cartography, data management, genomics, geography, Indigenous Knowledge, the legal and policy sciences, and resource management. Together we have co-develop a suite of genomics knowledge-mobilization tools that will support environmental decision making. Project activities and outcomes will support conservation, natural resource management, and the sustainability of Arctic wildlife. Outcomes will also support Canada’s efforts to protect Arctic species and ensure food security for Arctic Peoples.

Side meeting

Coming soon

Plenary
Livestreamed
Live interpretation in Inuktitut available

Canadian Antarctic Research Expedition (CARE) 2025 Presentation Join Dr. Tom James, Chief Scientist of CARE 2025, for a presentation on the exciting science voyage on board the HMCS Margaret Brooke in Antarctica and an opportunity for Q&A. All are welcome!

Side meeting

This fourth of five sessions, open to all, links to the plenary talk, New technologies proposed to slow the loss of sea ice (Dec. 18, 1:45 pm). In session IV—moderated by Cam Holmstrom (NIIPAAWI Strategies)—representative of Real Ice will present results of ice thickening experiments in Cambridge, Bay, Canada and outline ongoing research on that approach.

Side meeting

Transport Canada, the Canadian Coast Guard, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and Fisheries and Oceans Canada cordially invite you to join us at Canada’s first Oceans Protection Plan (OPP) Marine Engagement event for the Arctic. The OPP represents the largest investment ever made to protect Canada's coasts and waterways for future generations while growing our economy. Building on progress since 2016, this engagement opportunity will focus on identifying and growing partnerships in the Arctic and sparking meaningful conversations to advance key initiatives that protect Canada’s Oceans and waterways for generations to come. This Arctic OPP event aims to bring together Inuit and other Indigenous partners from across Inuit Nunangat and the North together to foster networking, establish new relationships, share updates on work underway and to provide information on opportunities for future engagement.

Side meeting

Understanding the physical and biogeochemical changes occurring along Arctic coastlines is essential to assessing the broader impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems and biodiversity. Rapid warming, diminishing sea ice and glaciers, increasing storm intensity and frequency, and accelerating permafrost degradation are transforming these sensitive coastal environments. These unprecedented changes are already impacting infrastructure, communities, Inuit livelihoods, and vulnerable ecosystems across the Arctic coastal zone. Permafrost thaw, in particular, poses serious risks to both natural systems and built environments, intensifying the need for informed adaptation strategies. Supporting effective planning, mitigation, and resilience-building efforts requires robust research and close collaboration with Indigenous communities. This reoccurring session aims to bring together researchers, Indigenous partners, and community members who are studying, monitoring, or directly experiencing environmental changes. Co-Chairs: Dustin Whalen, Natural Resources Canada David Didier, Université du Québec à Rimouski Stéphanie Coulombe, Polar Knowledge Canada

Topical Session
Ecosystems

The rapidly changing Arctic requires fast-evolving tools in the time of climate change. eDNA, genomics and other DNA-based tools, in combination with Indigenous Knowledge, have the promise to significantly advance our understanding and ability to safeguard Arctic ecosystems and their biodiversity, and support Indigenous food security and lifeways. This session welcomes researchers, community-led monitors, Indigenous knowledge holders, decision makers, and policymakers to promote knowledge exchange in the adoption of eDNA/RNA, genomics, metagenomics, and other molecular approaches to monitor ecosystems, track species (native, invasive, or pathogenic), identify environmental changes, and other applications. The session highlights community-led initiatives and partnerships that integrate Indigenous Knowledge with genomic sciences. Discussion of protocols, integration of molecular data into decision-making, and community collaboration are encouraged. By bridging science and Indigenous priorities, this session showcases innovative approaches to safeguard Arctic ecosystems and food systems. Co-Chairs: Srijak Bhatnagar, Athabasca University Maribeth Murray, Arctic Institute of North America Jordan Musetta-Lambert, Environment and Climate Change Canada Jordyn Broadbent, Environment and Climate Change Canada

Topical Session
Ecosystems

Co-management in Northern Canada braids Indigenous and non-Indigenous knowledge systems to manage wildlife and natural resources through shared decision-making. These decisions are often made during board meetings, where representatives collaborate and integrate diverse insights. In this panel discussion, we will highlight how co-management works by fostering dialogue among diverse stakeholders, focusing on 3 key themes: 1) What works: Real examples of co-management in action; 2) What’s hard: The structural and social challenges that get in the way of collaboration, and how people are finding creative ways around them; and 3) What’s next: how co-management can evolve to meet the next generation’s environmental and cultural challenges. The session will also be visually and aurally documented, with the recording featured in a podcast co-produced by the Co-Management Knowledge Hub (co-management.ca) and "The Auntie is In" podcast, broadening its reach beyond ArcticNet. Podcasts are ideal for this content, offering a conversational format that reflects co-management’s collaborative nature. By combining a panel with a podcast, our session will provide insights into how co-management boards address challenges and support wildlife stewardship across Northern contexts. Co-chairs: Jamie Snook Paulina Johnson Presenters: Joe Tetlichi Jason Akearok Amanda Dumond

Panel Discussion
Ecosystems

The Hudson and James Bay Lowlands (HJBL) host incredible biodiversity across boreal, wetland, riverine, and coastal ecosystems. It is one of the few remaining intact boreal landscapes. Indigenous Peoples have witnessed habitat and biodiversity changes in the HJBL initially driven by European contact and more recently by industrial land uses and climate change. Increasing resource development in the HJBL will affect biodiversity and ecosystems. New research has brought together datasets to develop baseline information and aid in knowledge gap analyses. This session is to share science and Indigenous knowledge about the HJBL's past, present, and future biodiversity. The session will showcase the state of knowledge on HJBL terrestrial biodiversity, results of monitoring and research projects, and actions to fill gaps. This will be an ethical space of engagement that brings people and ideas together to increase understanding of HJBL drivers of changes in biodiversity and future research needs. Co-Chairs: Vicki Sahanatien, Mushkegowuk Council Lucas Beaver, Birds Canada Alexandra Langwieder, McGill University Jennie Knopp, Oceans North Dan Duckert, Keewaytinook Okimakanak Tribal Council

Topical Session
Ecosystems

Please join us for an interesting discussion highlighting best practices and shared experience in leveraging partnerships to enable world-class science. Panelists will discuss the systems and processes that support the advancement of science goals through various levels of collaboration. The session will be moderated by Dr. David Hik, Chief Scientist and Vice President Research, Polar Knowledge Canada Panelists: Dr. Susan Kutz Professor, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary Canada Research Chair in Arctic One Health: Healthy Animals, Healthy Communities in a Changing Arctic Dr. Tamzin Blewett Associate Professor - Faculty of Science - Biological Sciences, University of Alberta Canada Research Chair Tier II: Environmental Physiology and Toxicology Dr. Florence Glanfield Vice-Provost (Indigenous Programming & Research), University of Alberta Professor, Mathematics Education, Faculty of Education Citizen, Métis Nation within Alberta Dr. Andrew Applejohn Executive Director, Programs Polar Knowledge Canada

Panel Discussion
Ecosystems

Canada has an opportunity to lead in the North as global interest in the region intensifies. The Arctic's growing strategic importance highlights the urgent need for future-focused infrastructure development. From roads and ports to icebreakers, research vessels, security sensors and environmental monitoring stations, smart investments can unlock the Arctic's potential. These efforts are key to building a prosperous North with thriving communities, advancing reconciliation, addressing and adapting to climate change, and reinforcing Canadian sovereignty and defense. This session will explore how Canada can capitalize on this moment: identifying priorities and opportunities, showcasing innovation, and aligning infrastructure initiatives with long-term national and Indigenous goals. We invite submissions on utilizing multi-use infrastructure, infrastructure development and improvement, balancing sovereignty, security and Indigenous rights, improving situational awareness and related topics. Co-Chairs: Tom Henheffer, Arctic Research Foundation Alex Dalziel, Macdonald-Laurier Institute Alexandre Forest, Amundsen Science Brent Else, University of Calgary

Topical Session
Infrastructures

Amidst an age of rapid information exchange, effectively communicating Arctic science within Northern communities, and to broader audiences, remains a persistent challenge. While interest in Arctic research continues to grow, a disconnect often exists between data collection and the way findings are shared. This session, will explore innovative and culturally grounded approaches to outreach, education, and storytelling. We invite contributions from students, researchers, artists, educators, Indigenous knowledge holders, and northern organizations. Presentations may include case studies, community-led initiatives, and reflections on best practices for science communication, data sharing, and meaningful engagement. Co-Chairs: Christine Cox, Arctic Research Foundation Tracy Thomas, Arctic Research Foundation Kaitlyn Van De Woestyne, Arctic Research Foundation

Topical Session
Other

Data is a powerful tool for Inuit self-determination, but only when it is governed, protected, and carried in ways that serve Inuit priorities and aligns with Inuit principles. This session will introduce the emerging Inuit Data Strategy, developed to advance Inuit control over Inuit data, from community knowledge to digital systems. The session will feature voices from the National Inuit Data Management Committee, highlighting Inuit-led approaches to data governance, security, and self-determined data use. Following these presentations, participants will be invited into a town hall-style dialogue, including interactive activities to explore how different actors-researchers, governments, institutions, and communities-can support Inuit self-determination in data. The session will explore what it takes to move from data extraction to Inuit data governance, ensuring data is used to strengthen Inuit well-being, knowledge systems, and futures. Co-Chairs: Tom Robert, ITK Jonathan Yu, ITK Carrie Grable, ITK

Town Hall
Well-being

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 Sonja Ostertag, University of Waterloo Tiff-Annie Kenny, Université de Montréal

Topical Session
Livestreamed
Live interpretation in Inuktitut available
Well-being

5th International Polar Year Join Dr. David Hik, Chief Scientist and VP Research, Polar Knowledge Canada, for a discussion on the 2032-33 International Polar Year. All are invited to attend this session.

Side meeting

Understanding the physical and biogeochemical changes occurring along Arctic coastlines is essential to assessing the broader impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems and biodiversity. Rapid warming, diminishing sea ice and glaciers, increasing storm intensity and frequency, and accelerating permafrost degradation are transforming these sensitive coastal environments. These unprecedented changes are already impacting infrastructure, communities, Inuit livelihoods, and vulnerable ecosystems across the Arctic coastal zone. Permafrost thaw, in particular, poses serious risks to both natural systems and built environments, intensifying the need for informed adaptation strategies. Supporting effective planning, mitigation, and resilience-building efforts requires robust research and close collaboration with Indigenous communities. This reoccurring session aims to bring together researchers, Indigenous partners, and community members who are studying, monitoring, or directly experiencing environmental changes. Co-Chairs: Dustin Whalen, Natural Resources Canada David Didier, Université du Québec à Rimouski Stéphanie Coulombe, Polar Knowledge Canada

Topical Session
Ecosystems

The rapidly changing Arctic requires fast-evolving tools in the time of climate change. eDNA, genomics and other DNA-based tools, in combination with Indigenous Knowledge, have the promise to significantly advance our understanding and ability to safeguard Arctic ecosystems and their biodiversity, and support Indigenous food security and lifeways. This session welcomes researchers, community-led monitors, Indigenous knowledge holders, decision makers, and policymakers to promote knowledge exchange in the adoption of eDNA/RNA, genomics, metagenomics, and other molecular approaches to monitor ecosystems, track species (native, invasive, or pathogenic), identify environmental changes, and other applications. The session highlights community-led initiatives and partnerships that integrate Indigenous Knowledge with genomic sciences. Discussion of protocols, integration of molecular data into decision-making, and community collaboration are encouraged. By bridging science and Indigenous priorities, this session showcases innovative approaches to safeguard Arctic ecosystems and food systems. Co-Chairs: Srijak Bhatnagar, Athabasca University Maribeth Murray, Arctic Institute of North America Jordan Musetta-Lambert, Environment and Climate Change Canada Jordyn Broadbent, Environment and Climate Change Canada

Topical Session
Ecosystems

The Hudson and James Bay Lowlands (HJBL) host incredible biodiversity across boreal, wetland, riverine, and coastal ecosystems. It is one of the few remaining intact boreal landscapes. Indigenous Peoples have witnessed habitat and biodiversity changes in the HJBL initially driven by European contact and more recently by industrial land uses and climate change. Increasing resource development in the HJBL will affect biodiversity and ecosystems. New research has brought together datasets to develop baseline information and aid in knowledge gap analyses. This session is to share science and Indigenous knowledge about the HJBL's past, present, and future biodiversity. The session will showcase the state of knowledge on HJBL terrestrial biodiversity, results of monitoring and research projects, and actions to fill gaps. This will be an ethical space of engagement that brings people and ideas together to increase understanding of HJBL drivers of changes in biodiversity and future research needs. Co-Chairs: Vicki Sahanatien, Mushkegowuk Council Lucas Beaver, Birds Canada Alexandra Langwieder, McGill University Jennie Knopp, Oceans North Dan Duckert, Keewaytinook Okimakanak Tribal Council

Topical Session
Ecosystems

Amidst an age of rapid information exchange, effectively communicating Arctic science within Northern communities, and to broader audiences, remains a persistent challenge. While interest in Arctic research continues to grow, a disconnect often exists between data collection and the way findings are shared. This session, will explore innovative and culturally grounded approaches to outreach, education, and storytelling. We invite contributions from students, researchers, artists, educators, Indigenous knowledge holders, and northern organizations. Presentations may include case studies, community-led initiatives, and reflections on best practices for science communication, data sharing, and meaningful engagement. Co-Chairs: Christine Cox, Arctic Research Foundation Tracy Thomas, Arctic Research Foundation Kaitlyn Van De Woestyne, Arctic Research Foundation

Topical Session
Other

Research in the Canadian North operates within distinct governance systems across the three territories and four regions of Inuit Nunangat. Research licensing and permitting aim to ensure meaningful community engagement, protect residents from research harms, and track what is happening where. In some regions, research is subject to multiple authorizations required under diverse land claim and government legislation. As northern research expands in scope and complexity, so do expectations for Indigenous self-determination, data stewardship, and local benefits. This raises questions about the effectiveness of current regimes in fostering inclusive, ethical, and collaborative research. In this Town Hall, licensing and review practitioners from across the Canadian North will discuss challenges and opportunities in managing research. Through interactive activities, we will explore the growing role of research databases in supporting transparency, coordination, and Indigenous-led research across northern homelands. Co-Chairs: Alexis Beltrano, McMaster University Alison Perrin, Yukon University

Town Hall
Other

Recent years have seen an increase in Northern capacity to access, process, interpret, and apply climate data in pursuit of practical solutions. This session will invite presenters to explore recent developments in data provided by the Canadian Centre for Climate Services, and discuss how Northerners are accessing and using these data to solve planning, infrastructure and community challenges. We will explore how researchers and community members are making use of climate data and what methods they've employed to overcome challenges related to sparse monitoring networks and model uncertainties. How did community members fill gaps? What insights were gained from applying climate data, and what solutions were used when climate data simply couldn't answer key questions? What innovations in sharing and displaying data have resonated in the communities where you work? Co-Chairs: Brian Horton, Yukon University Chris Boucher, Environment and Climate Change Canada / Canadian Centre for Climate Service Julien Schroder, Yukon Government Department of Environment / Climate Change Secretariat

Topical Session
Other

This session will highlight a series of 2025 Northern internships, designed and led by local organizations, with the Students on Ice Foundation providing funding and support through our Blue Futures Pathways program. Focused on regional placements reflecting local, community values, partners like Qikiqtaaluk Corporation, Dinjii Zhuh Adventures, and Viventem offered meaningful experiences for youth in the North. These internships enabled personal and professional development and helped kickstart career pathways for a number of the youth involved. Endorsed as an official action under the UN Ocean Decade, The SOI Foundation's Blue Futures Pathways program supports youth aged 15-35 across Canada in career development within the Sustainable Blue Economy. Our definition of this sector includes the ocean, cryosphere, and water and roles that are environmentally sustainable, socially equitable, and financially viable. Co-Chairs: Tara Mascarenhas, Students on Ice (SOI) Foundation Anna Naylor, Blue Futures Pathways Dr Frédéric Bouchard, Université de Sherbrooke Jonathan Case, Qikiqtaaluk Corporation Bobbi Rose Koe, Dinjii Zhuh Adventures

Topical Session
Other

The Qikiqtaaluk Corporation (QC) is a diverse group of 35 Inuit-owned companies that spans many ocean sectors, including: fisheries, ports & shipping, energy, environment, telecommunication, and defense. QC’s Nunavut Marine Research Association is entering a growth phase and seeking new opportunities to foster scientific collaboration and to add value to project outcomes across its suite of well-established Qikiqtani community-driven program activity and vessel-based initiatives. This moderated session will review previous work conducted in QC communities, discuss anticipated focus areas, and then engage the audience and speakers in contributing ideas and perspectives towards future work. Please come and join the conversation!

Panel Discussion
Other

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 Sonja Ostertag, University of Waterloo Tiff-Annie Kenny, Université de Montréal

Topical Session
Livestreamed
Live interpretation in Inuktitut available
Well-being

Special Event

Covering almost 850,000 hectares of the Yukon Territory’s northeast coast, the Aullaviat/Anguniarvik Traditional Conservation Area is rich in biodiversity and cultural connections for Inuvialuit. The 1984 Inuvialuit Final Agreement recognized the importance of this area and identified it as a place for conservation of wildlife, habitat and traditional Inuvialuit use. It took 40 years, but Inuvialuit, territorial and federal partners have come to an agreement on how the area will be managed to ensure Inuvialuit-led conservation and to contribute to Canada’s goals of reversing biodiversity loss. This short documentary introduces audiences to this little-known part of the world and the people (and wildlife) who call it home. It will be followed by a Q&A session with members of the Aullaviat/Anguniarvik Working Group who were central to the Conservation Area's creation.

Documentary
Q&A

Nittaituq (16 min, original French version with English and Inuktitut subtitles) Directed by: Camille Poirier, Mathilde Poirier, and Flore Sergeant. Between resilience and uncertainty, residents of Mittimatalik, an Inuit community in northern Baffin Island, share their reflections on the impact of climate change, revealing an Arctic landscape in profound transformation. Initiated in 2022, this project emerged from the collaboration between scientists, filmmakers, and members of the Mittimatalik community. The screening of Nittaituq will be followed by a discussion on art-based knowledge mobilization. Presenters : Mathilde Poirier, postdoctoral researcher at University of Calgary, and co-director of Nittaituq Shelby Bohn, postdoctoral researcher at University of Calgary and artist

Documentary
Q&A