Regions: Inuvialuit Settlement Region
Tags: contaminants, traditional food, metals, marine biology, arctic char, organic contaminants
| Principal Investigator: | Evans, Marlene S. (54) |
| Licence Number: | 14055 |
| Organization: | Environment Canada |
| Licensed Year(s): |
2007
2006
|
| Issued: | Aug 10, 2006 |
| Project Team: | Dr. Derek Muir (Environment Canada), Jonathan Keating (Environment Canada) |
Project Description: This is a study investigating the contaminant levels in sea-run Arctic char as they return from feeding in the ocean. The aim of this study is to provide communities with more information on the chemical levels in these fish. By making these chemical measurements in char and comparing them with chemical levels in marine mammals, there would be a possibility to demonstrate that char is a good food choice. The study will focus on chemicals such as PCBs, DDT, and toxaphene, and mercury, but will also include new compounds of concern such as brominated flame retardants and 31 other metals. In previous years, char collection for the project took place in Paulatuk, Holman, Cambridge Bay, Gjoa Haven, Iqaluit, Pangnirtung, Pond Inlet, Resolute, Cape Dorset, Arviat and Sanikiluaq. This year, 20 Arctic char will be collected from the Sachs Harbour area (71° 59.110’ N, 125° 14.793’ W). Fish will be collected by community members during normal subsistence fishing activities. The findings of the study will be shared with communities through reports and possible community visits. Research activities will take place from August 10 to September 30, 2006.
