Polar Bear Habitat in Fort Severn

The community of Fort Severn First Nation would like to direct and contribute to researching the future of food and income sources in the traditional territory, specifically the migration and habitat of caribou and polar bear. Capacity building will be developed through involving local guides and youth in the research process, training in data collection methods and providing a legacy of culturally derived maps and wilderness skills. The project is needed to better understand the caribou and polar bear habits as climate change is affecting the health of the populations and resulting health of Cree people. The species are part of the community livelihood for food, crafts, tools and the traditional way of life. The community will also be better prepared with a profile and trend data when discussing regulations with governing agencies (Environment Canada and OMNR). Short term benefits include training and capacity development for youth, community youth lands website and a record of cultural knowledge that may be lost as Elders pass away. Long term benefits include attention brought to polar bear and caribou habitat and survival and climate change.