NWT RESEARCH DATABASE

Regions: Inuvialuit Settlement Region

Tags: physical sciences, site remediation, water quality, bathymetry, benthic invertebrates

Objective(s): To document the physical condition of the seabed lease following the removal of the Tarsiut Caissons.

Project Description: The objective of this project is to document the physical condition of the seabed lease following the removal of the Tarsiut Caissons. The project also includes sampling benthic populations in the disturbed and undisturbed areas of the lease. This information can be used as a benchmark for possible future study of the effects of natural processes in restoring the footprint of the caissons. A bathymetric survey was also conducted in 2013 to help locate any caisson-related debris to be retrieved as part of the removal program. A local, shallow draft bathymetry vessel and mainline tug will be used for the bathymetric survey. Divers and/or a small remotely operated vehicle will be used to collect the benthic samples. Accommodation on the lease area will be provided at the camp barge forming part of the marine spread for the 2016 Caisson Removal Program. Two Marine Mammal Observers and one Wildlife Monitor will be onsite as part to reduce the potential for interaction with marine mammals (including whales and polar bears), birds and harvester activities. Since 2012, ConocoPhillips has discussed removal options with the Aklavik, Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk Hunters and Trappers Committees (HTC), Community Corporations and the Inuvialuit Game Council in preparation for the caissons removal. No concerns have been raised with the bathymetric survey or benthic sampling planned as part of the Program. The fieldwork for this study will be conducted during the removal program which is scheduled for an approximately 3 week period starting early to mid-July pending open water. The bathymetric vessel will be locally sourced. The research is part of the 2016 Tarsiut Caisson Removal Program for which 2 Marine Mammal Observers and a Wildlife Monitor will also be retained. Copies of the study report will be provided to the Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, the Aklavik and Tuktoyaktuk Hunters and Trappers Committees and Community Corporations and the Aurora Research Institute. The fieldwork for this study will be conducted from July 15, 2016 to August 15, 2016.