The Beluga Bulletin highlights the ongoing collaboration between the Inuvialuit, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), and the Fisheries Joint Management Committee (FJMC) in monitoring and researching beluga whales in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region (ISR). This partnership, established since the 1980s, has evolved into one of the world's longest and most comprehensive beluga monitoring programs. Recent research focuses on beluga health, energy needs, lung function, habitat use, and the effects of climate change on beluga populations.
Key activities included sample collection at harvest sites such as Hendrickson Island, East Whitefish, and Kendall Island, where beluga monitors worked with local harvesters to gather data on beluga health, contaminants, diet, and age. The research also incorporated local and traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) from communities in the ISR, strengthening the connection between scientific and community insights.
In 2014, the DFO and FJMC collaborated with universities on various studies, including the impact of food preparation on nutrients and contaminants in muktuk, and the analysis of beluga ear anatomy and lung function. Training and employment opportunities were provided for youth in the ISR to enhance local capacity for research. The summer's successful research efforts contribute to monitoring the Tarium Niryutait Marine Protected Area and the Anguniaqvia Niqi-qyuam Area of Interest. Looking forward, community meetings will be held to share findings and engage with local residents.
