Nauttiqsuqtiit Inuit Steward

The Eyes and Ears of Tallurutiup Imanga

The Nauttiqsuqtiit, or Inuit stewards, are the eyes and ears of Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area – not only monitoring the region but also harvesting to the benefit of the community. The Tallurutiup Imanga Inuit Impact and Benefit Agreement funds the Nauttiqsuqtiit Inuit Steward Program.

This program provides Inuit jobs as environmental stewards and harvesters. It also provides a foundation for mentorship, training, and economic development for Inuit.

In July 2018, QIA launched the Tallurutiup Imanga Nauttiqsuqtiit pilot project in Arctic Bay as an early benefit from Parks Canada. The animals harvested by the Nauttiqsuqtiit in Arctic Bay were shared with the community at community feasts. The nonedible animal parts were shared with seamstresses and artisans to bolster the local economy. These efforts have illustrated the importance of harvesters and harvesting to food sovereignty in the Qikiqtani Region.

The success of the pilot program led to its expansion to the other four Tallurutiup Imanga communities – Clyde River, Grise Fiord, Pond Inlet and Resolute Bay.

To learn more:

Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area and Tuvaijuittuq Marine Protected Area

Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area Inuit Impact and Benefit Agreement (August 1, 2019)

Arctic Bay Nauttiqsuqtiit 2018-2019 Annual Report

Highlights of the Tallurutiup Imanga and Tuvaijuittuq Agreement

Wildlife Compensation Fund

The Mary River Wildlife Compensation Fund was created as part of the Inuit Impact Benefits Agreement between QIA and Baffinland Iron Mine.

The fund is designed to address the potential impact of the Mary River Project on Qikiqtani harvesters.

Inuit in communities impacted by the Mary River mine can apply for funding if an incident of loss or damage to wildlife occurs. The incident must be caused directly or indirectly by activities related to the Mary River Project.

To learn more or to access the application:

Mary River Wildlife Compensation Fund – Claim Form

Mary River Wildlife Compensation Fund – Guidelines for applications

The Mary River Inuit Impact and Benefit Agreement

Pond Inlet Wildlife Monitoring

Community Based Monitoring

QIA’s community-based monitoring project in Pond Inlet was started in 2017 as a response to community concerns with seismic testing and increased shipping in the area.

The aim of the project is to gather information on the health, well-being and abundance of wildlife surrounding Pond Inlet. The information can help inform decisions on policy, advocacy, and management of issues that affect Inuit.

The project is funded through Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada.

To learn more:

2018-2019 Annual Report