Nattivut Network Launches!

While there is research on ringed and harp seal heath in the Arctic, it is limited on both species in Frobisher Bay. This Inuit-led project has an overall goal of creating holistic research on ringed and harp seals that supports continued ringed and harp seal use, and supports community well-being and self-determination for Iqalummiut.

The Nattivut Network project has four goals:

1) Monitoring ringed and harp seal health,

2) Inuit knowledge sharing related seal use, including for food and fur

3) Knowledge Mobilization, and

4) Community Connections.

This project is built around Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (values and knowing) in its foundations, considering the cultural importance of ringed seals. We will work with harvesters to collect seal samples to understand the health of ringed and harp seals through contaminants, zoonotic diseases, and dietary differences between the two species. The Nattivut Network project will also focus on building networks between Inuit in Iqaluit and southern-based laboratories to facilitate timely and relevant research on seals, and getting clear results back. Community connections focuses on building local capacity for doing necropsies, supporting cultural programs in Iqaluit, and keeping the research flexible for any new priorities that may arise.