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NUNAVUT WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT BOARD
MINUTES: MEETING NO. 19 25 - 27 AUGUST 1998 BAKER LAKE , NT
Agenda Call to Order and Opening Preliminaries Welcome by Community Representatives Financial and Administrative Business
Chairperson, Staff, and Members' Reports
Completion of Assignments and Resolutions from Last Meeting Environment Canada (CWS) Issues/Decisions
Community Feast and Public Meeting
Executive Committee Report and Recommendations
Meetings, Workshops and Other Pertinent Events Date and Location of Next Meeting
Tuesday, 25 August 1998
1. Call to Order and Opening Preliminaries
The Chairperson Ben Kovic convened the meeting at 8:20 a.m. in the Igloo Hotel Conference Room at Baker Lake . Pauloosie Keyootak led the opening prayer. Ben welcomed the Members to Baker Lake , and asked all persons present to introduce themselves.
Ben gave a brief overview of the agenda for the week. Ben noted that the meeting would be open to the public, and drew attention to the Board’s new sound system which it is hoped will help make the meeting run more smoothly.
Welcome by Community Representatives
His Worship, Mayor David Tagoona, welcomed the NWMB Members to Baker Lake on behalf of the Hamlet Council and the residents of the community. He stated that Baker Lake was proud to be hosting this meeting. He invited the Board to take advantage of amenities available in the Hamlet office, and also to visit the Inuit Heritage Centre and Visitors Centre, which provide a history of the area. David noted that there would be a combined community feast and public meeting with the NWMB on Wednesday evening. There would be community dances most evenings if Members wished to participate.
Silas Kenalogak, Chairperson of the Baker Lake Hunters and Trappers Association, was unable to attend the meeting. He asked the Mayor to welcome the Board Members to Baker Lake on his behalf.
Members reviewed the agenda for this the 19 th regular Meeting of the NWMB. Jim Noble advised that some of tabs in the information binder were empty or had changed, and that no material had been submitted by DFO. The agenda was accepted with a few minor additions and deletions. (Resolution 99-058)
3. Minutes: Review and Adoption
The Minutes for Regular Meeting No. 18, held on 10 - 12 May 1998, were adopted with minor additions and deletions. (Resolution 99-059)
The Minutes for Conference Call No. 37, conducted on 11 June 1998 , were adopted as presented. (Resolution 99-060)
The Minutes for Conference Call No. 38, conducted on 12 June 1998 , were adopted as presented. (Resolution 99-061)
The Minutes for Conference Call No. 39, conducted on 02 July 1998 , were adopted as presented. (Resolution 99-062)
The Minutes for Conference Call No. 40, conducted on 20 July 1998 , were adopted with minor amendments. (Resolution 99-063)
The Minutes for Special Meeting No. 7, held on 10-11 March 1998, were adopted as presented. (Resolution 99-064)
4. Financial and Administrative Business
4.A Audit/Variance Report for 1997/98
Jim Noble introduced Gordon Tomlinson , the new Director of Finance and Administration. Gordon reported that the Auditors gave a positive opinion of the NWMB financial records for 1997/98. Gordon noted that the most significant change in reporting format from the previous year was that the NWRT funds have been transferred to a separate statement. Among the variances is a new item for depreciation that reflects a new accounting policy for not-for-profit organizations. An excess of revenue over expenses of $150,516 was recorded. Kevin McCormick suggested that the two NWMB Advisors should be coded to the same budget line item. Kevin also asked Gordon to explain how depreciation can be shown as a new expense when the depreciated items have already been shown as expenses in previous years. Members applauded Gordon’s explanation of variances for the financial report. Harry Flaherty requested that in future staff strive to eliminate or at least minimize any “miscellaneous” categories of expenditure. The 1997/98 Audited Financial Statement was accepted as presented. (Resolution 99-065)
4.B Financial Report to 31 July 1998
Gordon Tomlinson gave an overview of the NWMB financial situation as at 31 July 1998 . Gordon reviewed and explained the major variances, noting for example that provision for staff salary adjustments was not factored into the original budget. Harry Flaherty expressed concern that the budget for Conservation Education is constantly under-spent, and suggested that the Board needs to do more work in this area. The Board accepted the 31 July 1998 financial statement as presented. (Resolution 99-066)
4.C Funding Arrangement with DIAND: Update
Jim Noble advised that the concerns of the NWMB concerning DIAND’s proposed new Contribution Agreement were conveyed in writing to the Minister on 12 March 1998 . The Minister responded by letter on May 21. The Minister agreed that the NWMB concerns were valid, indicated that action was being taken, and suggested that NWMB staff meet with DIAND officials in Ottawa . Jim subsequently called Leigh Jessen, the suggested contact person in DIAND. Ms Jessen advised that the Agreement revisions were still with DIAND Legal and had not yet been presented to the Treasury Board. Jim suggested to Ms Jessen that there would be no benefit in meeting until there was actual progress in revising the Agreement. Ms Jessen agreed.
Michael d’Eça reviewed the history of this controversy for the benefit of new Board Members. The problem started in February 1997 when DIAND tried to unilaterally introduce some new terms and conditions in the course of drafting a new Contribution Agreement for 1997/98. The NWMB objected, and DIAND ended up making some changes that they gave assurance would be interim. By September 1997 nothing had happened by way of a permanent solution and the NWMB brought the matter to the attention of the Implementation Panel. The NWMB declared its intention at that time to draft its own version of what such an agreement should say. This was done, and the NWMB proposal was sent to the Minister in November. No response was received. The events of the previous year were essentially repeated in March and April of 1998. DIAND again emphasized that their initiative would be only an interim solution. The Minister’s letter of May 21 was very positive; however no progress has since been made.
The Board agreed that another letter be written to the DIAND Minister, with a copy to the MP for Nunatsiaq, in order to:
5. Chairperson, Staff , and Members' Reports
Ben Kovic referred to the reports by NWMB senior staff members and Advisors as set out in the briefing material provided for the information of the Board.
Ben Kovic advised that since the last Board Meeting there have been fewer invitations that required his participation. Ben noted that he had written to the three RWOs for permission to communicate directly with the HTOs; however no responses were received. Ben advised that he plans soon to start regular calls to the HTO Chairpersons and/or Executive Directors .
Ben also advised that he and Michael d’Eça attended the Canada-Greenland Bilateral Fisheries Consultations in Ottawa in late May. These meetings are to discuss conservation, management and sharing of turbot and shrimp in the waters adjacent to Nunavut and Greenland . This was the third such meeting, and the first at which Ben was excluded from the actual consultation table.
In a letter to the NWMB prior to the Canada-Greenland consultations, the DFO Minister had indicated that the only possibility for an expanded turbot harvest by Nunavut interests during the next five years would be if the overall quota were increased or if Greenland were to reduce its share. Ben arranged for Michael to speak directly to the head of the Greenland delegation about this. It was hardly surprising to be told that Greenland would not consider decreasing its share of the turbot quota since that share continues to be fully allocated.
Ben was also concerned that there may not have been any representation by Inuit, through NTI, at the Canadian internal discussions leading to Canada ’s position at these bilateral consultations. Michael referred to the Board’s letter of August 7 to NTI, pointing out that NLCA 5.9.2 obliges the Government of Canada to take steps to include Inuit representation in discussions leading to the formulation of Canada ’s positions in matters such as developing resource-management and resource-sharing agreements with Greenland .
5.B Executive Director's Report
Jim Noble referred the Members to his meeting reports in the information binder. Jim noted that an agreement was made with RWED for the NWMB to distribute administrative funding to the RWOs and HTOs on a trial basis for one year starting in August of 1998.
5.C Wildlife Management Director’s Report
Dan Pike referred Members to his briefing note in the information binder.
5.D Finance and Administration Director’s Report
Gordon Tomlinson referred to his briefing note in the information binder.
Michael d’Eça referred Members to his briefing note. He mentioned that forms will soon be available to enable Inuit to formalize assignment of harvesting rights. Michael noted that he will be reviewing several Supreme Court of Canada decisions that pertain to the independence of members of tribunals. Such decisions are pertinent to Members of the NWMB in their relationships with their appointing agencies. Michael observed that all of his major activity items appear independently on the Meeting agenda.
5.F Fisheries Advisor's Report
Dan Pike reviewed Ray Andrew’s activity report as contained in his memo of August 14. Ray advises that the NWMB should consider and pursue DFO’s Allocation Transfer Policy under the Aboriginal Fisheries Strategy as a possible model or catalyst for obtaining groundfish licences for Inuit people in the Baffin region. Jim Noble noted that Ray was advocating that he and Ben Kovic attend the NAFO AGM in Portugal in September. Gordon Koshinsky reminded the Members about Ray’s recommendation that a fall workshop be organized for all parties with an interest in the eastern Arctic fisheries. Gordon supported such a workshop and urged that it be structured to identify and assign ways of pursuing specific goals. Jim reminded the Members of an earlier decision to hold a workshop to conduct a review of Board operations, and proposed that the two workshops might be conducted together.
5.G Members’ Reports and Concerns
Joan Scottie reported that the implications of Nunavut and its boundaries was once again raised as a concern at the last meeting of the Beverly-Qamanirjuaq Caribou Management Board that she attended at Tadoule Lake. David Tagoona reported that the Baker Lake HTO has been forced into a state of idleness due to lack of funds. ( Jim Noble advised that a Contribution Agreement is now being developed to permit the flow of funds. This followed upon NWMB staff going to Baker Lake to clean up the HTO’s accounting.)
Makabe Nartok reported continuing difficulties being experienced by polar bear hunters in his area in complying with the required sex ratios.
Pauloosie Keyootak enquired about the identity of researchers who have been studying lakes in his area for several years. They leave equipment in the lakes, which makes people curious and concerned. (Dan Pike undertook to try to discover who these people are and what their purpose is.)
6. Completion of Assignments and Resolutions from Last Meeting
Jim Noble reported that he had tried to incorporate all NWMB Resolutions into the Assignments List, along with the other items. He then gave a status report on each item, with emphasis on items that had not been completed. Gordon Koshinsky suggested that a process was needed for considering the removal of assignments from the list if they remained undone for a long time. Perhaps the assignee could report to that effect after a certain period.
7. Environment Canada (CWS) Issues/Decisions
7.A The Canada Endangered Species Protection Act (CESPA): Update
Kevin McCormick advised that he and/or Michael d’Eça had participated in two recent meetings pertaining to this matter. Legislation may be re-introduced in the near future, at which time the Board would have further opportunity to respond.
At a meeting in late June that was organized by CWS and RWED, draft Terms of Reference were presented for two committees to be formed or re-constituted under this legislation: the Canadian Endangered Species Conservation Council, and the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada . Michael noted that the NWMB responded to these draft Terms of Reference. While no formal acknowledgement has yet been received, informal indications are that the reaction to the NWMB’s suggestions will be positive.
A second meeting organized by CWS was held in Ottawa on August 10. This three-day meeting was to consult with interested stakeholders. The third day was devoted to aboriginal groups (both with and without completed claims agreements), and to Wildlife Management Boards. Groups without claims agreements took up most of the time, leaving little opportunity for discussion with the Management Boards.
7.B Status of Greater Snow Goose Population
Kevin McCormick reported that greater snow geese nest in and around Bylot and Ellesmere Islands . This population of geese is growing approximately twice as fast (9%) as the mid-continent population. Habitat degradation is not yet as evident as that caused by the mid-continent population of lesser snow geese, but it is considered likely to be only a matter of time before this occurs. The Arctic Goose Joint Venture is recommending a doubling of the harvest.
Kevin McCormick reviewed the briefing note provided on this matter. Most species of seaducks are declining in abundance, but are not receiving much attention. These ducks are not hunted as much as other duck species, and they do not migrate along the conventional flyways. Fifteen species of ducks, some of which are considered to be endangered, would come under this heading. A proposal for creation of a Sea Duck Joint Venture is now being circulated. The purpose of this venture would be to bring interested agencies together to pool resources and knowledge and to develop priorities for research. A meeting was conducted in late June to flesh-out the structure of such a venture; no funding arrangements have been made to date. A prospectus will be brought to the NWMB when it is available. Pauloosie Keyootak suggested that gulls, ravens and falcons are scaring sea duck species away from East Baffin communities. The effects of these predator birds should be considered in the design of any research on seaducks.
7.D Environment Canada Presence in Nunavut
Kevin McCormick advised that CWS is considering the establishment of eight new positions in Iqaluit over the next four years. According to present plans, these would include four positions with hands-on duties in respect to population biology and habitat.
7. E Arviat Snow Goose Harvest
Stephen Atkinson tabled a report from Joe Savikataaq, Renewable Resource Officer at Arviat, regarding the 1998 summer snow goose harvest. Joe reported that 1,000 geese were harvested. The harvest was filmed by CBC North, and exposure is expected at both the territorial and national levels. Harvest costs were estimated at approximately $10 per bird. The birds were distributed to four communities in the area.
7.F Possibilities for Management of Snow Geese in Nunavut
Stephen Atkinson tabled an information item on the subject of options for the management of snow geese with the aim of increasing harvests in the NSA. RWED has begun identifying such options, with the idea of presenting them to DOE and to the Central Flyway Committee. Options identified include extended seasons, larger bag limits, fewer restrictions on hunting methods, and encouragement of a larger subsistence harvest. Greater commercialization of the use of snow geese by Inuit would depend in part on obtaining a favourable interpretation of the governing provisions of the MBCA.
8. Fisheries and Oceans (DFO): Issues/Decisions 8.A Possible Illegal Fishing in Groundfish Sub Area OB
Gary Weber advised that DFO launched an investigation, which is still underway, on possible illegal fishing in NAFO Division OB. Some charges have already been laid and more may be pending.
8.B Request for Quota Increase: Naqsaarluq Arctic Char
Gary Weber advised that Clyde River HTA is requesting an increase of 2,300 kg in the commercial quota of arctic char for Naqsaarluq Lake . Gary noted that the current commercial quota is 2,300 kg and there is also a subsistence harvest, perhaps as much as 2,000 kg. The commercial harvest was 1,500 kg in 1993/94; 2,000 kg in 1994/95; 1,400 kg in 1995/96; and 1,700 kg in 1996/97. DFO Stock Assessment staff in Winnipeg conclude that natural mortality of char is usually about 20% per year. Most char systems can sustain harvests of approximately 5% per year. Indications are that commercial plus subsistence harvest in the Naqsaarluq system are already close to 30%. Doubling the commercial quota at this point could increase mortality rates to approximately 45%. The community has never harvested the full commercial quota to this point. DFO has identified three options:
Gordon Koshinsky asked if the request for a larger quota was to meet some operational threshold: was it integral to some particular mode of operation or fishing plan? Gary advised that he was not aware of the reason for the requested increase. David Tagoona asked what type of gear is used in the fishery. Gary replied that 51/2-inch gill nets are used. Dan Pike suggested that Harvest Study data could/should be used in making this decision. He also suggested that there would be time to more critically examine char mortality rates pertinent to this system since the fishery does not start until late winter. Harry Flaherty suggested that the NWMB should hear from the HTO and not just from the Resource Officer. The Board decided to defer decision on this matter to the next meeting, in anticipation of having more information.
Gary Weber provided an update on 1998 walrus sport hunting by community:
8.D Walrus Management Plan: Update
Dan Pike briefed the Board on what he interprets to be a disjointed and largely unsatisfactory management system for walrus in the NSA. Efforts to stimulate DFO to draft an alternative walrus management system began two years ago but, despite repeated assurances from DFO officials, have been fruitless. Dan suggested that unless the present management system is substantially reformed the NWMB faces prospects of:
Dan suggested that it was time for the NWMB to take decisive measures on this matter, and specifically suggested implementing a similar process for walrus management planning as was undertaken for narwhal. This would require setting up a Walrus Working Group to develop a set of walrus management options for the consideration of the NWMB. Dan estimated that the cost of an initial meeting of such a Working Group would be approximately $14,000, plus the cost for an independent chairperson/facilitator. DFO would be asked and expected to prepare stock status reports and a framework of options for management and regulation as background for such a meeting.
Kevin McCormick asked if the deliberations of such a Working Group would be expected to produce results or products that were much different from the emerging products and decisions pertaining to narwhal. Dan suggested that the main difference would be to accommodate the requirement for walrus sport hunting. Kevin asked how DFO representatives viewed such a proposal. Gary Weber suggested that this was the best way to address the matter. Harry Flaherty recommended that Arctic Bay hunters be considered when forming a Working Group. The Board approved the establishment of a Walrus Working Group to review and advise on the requirements for an effective system for walrus management in the NSA. (Resolution 99-067) 8.E Narwhal Management Proposal
Dan Pike reviewed the background, process and content for a proposed new system of narwhal management in the NSA. Dan noted that many resolutions of support have been received regarding the proposed new system. Gordon Koshinsky interpreted this to be a ground-breaking initiative, and asked about the DFO perspective on the matter. Gary Weber advised that DFO views on the concept are divided at the present time. He declared that for his part, he would like to see the proposal tried. Gary noted the excellent spirit of co-operation that prevailed in the Working Group.
Gordon asked if DFO has sufficient capacity at the local level to help implement the proposed narwhal management system. Gary advised that the Department is committed to making the effort. Kevin McCormick suggested that effective reporting of the hunt will be critical. Gary gave assurance that DFO will actively monitor that aspect. Gordon expressed concern about the ability of hunters to reliably predict if a particular narwhal that is struck but escapes will live or die. He also suggested that if the new management approach is to succeed, a research program will be needed to complement it.
Dan noted that HTOs will need guidelines for making and enforcing bylaws to regulate hunting at the local level. Michael d'Eça agreed that this will be crucial. He reminded Members that the NWMB was called upon to assist in this matter with respect to the new management system for Southeast Baffin beluga, and suggested that NWMB should also participate in the development of guidelines for the creation of local bylaws to govern narwhal hunting. The main reason is that such bylaws would in effect be "non-quota limitations”, albeit applying only to HTO members and not to the entire public. The Board moved that steps be taken to implement a new management system for narwhal as developed by the Narwhal Working Group. (Resolution 99-068)
The Meeting re-convened at 9:00 a.m. The Board conducted a "Swearing-in Ceremony" for Ben Kovic as Chairperson for another four-year term.
8.F Southeast Baffin Beluga Management Proposal
Dan Pike advised that the SEBBM Committee met on June 16 and 17, 1998. DFO researchers provided information on genetic and contaminant studies. This work strongly suggests that the three communities hunt separate groups of belugas, which is in agreement with recent TEK studies. At present, all three communities have quotas. The Committee reviewed the original justification for quotas. There is no evidence that belugas at Iqaluit and Kimmirut have decreased under present levels of hunting. In any event, the present quotas have not been limiting the harvest, as quotas have never been reached and the harvest has not increased in recent years. Pangnirtung, however, still requires a quota since over-harvesting would occur if the present quota were removed. The Committee adopted a recommendation calling for elimination of beluga quotas at Iqaluit and Kimmirut. The Committee also recommended the continuation of genetic studies and other research to delineate the various Southeast Baffin stocks and relate them to other stocks.
Kevin McCormick asked if a monitoring program was feasible as a condition of removing the quotas. Gary Weber suggested that this would be less onerous than the previous sampling program; however it would depend on whether the HTOs and hunters would provide information. Dan Pike confirmed that the monitoring program is considered as a pre-condition and should be conveyed to the Minister as such. Gordon Koshinsky urged that there be a centralized approach to helping HTOs to develop local by-laws to control harvesting of whatever species, and that the NWMB probably should lead in this endeavour. Kevin McCormick suggested that developing such by-laws has two aspects:
Michael d'Eça agreed; however he suggested that both aspects ("theory" and "practice") need to be co-ordinated. The Board decided to accept the Southeast Baffin Beluga Management Committee’s recommendations to eliminate quotas for Iqaluit and Kimmirut, with conditions. (Resolution 99-069)
The Board also decided to approve and adopt the other research and management recommendations of the SEBBMC developed at its June meeting. (Resolution 99-070) In summary, these recommendations are that:
Gary Weber reported that the 1998 bowhead hunt was a success. It was also a popular event: there were up to 82 tents at the hunt camp at one point and approximately 35 boats. Two Fisheries Officers monitored the hunt and a technician and a local casual worker sampled the whale. Hunters "herded" a whale towards the camp at Kekerten Island . The hunt took approximately two hours (including the drive). Three thousand feet of line was attached to the whale and then to a boat. The hunt crew began butchering in the early hours of Tuesday morning July 21, and completed the task by Thursday evening.
The Board also had the advantage of a preliminary report on the hunt tabled by the Qikiktaaluk Wildlife Board. The QWB also interpreted the hunt as a success. Approximately 200 people participated directly. The shoulder gun was used to make the actual kill. Costs incurred were in the range of $85,000. No useable portions were wasted. About 3,000 pounds of edible products were distributed to other communities and regions. The availability of handling and storing facilities in the community at Cumberland Sound Fisheries was a distinct asset. There was good media coverage of the event. The Hunt Planning Committee will be preparing a formal evaluation of the hunt.
Ben Kovic expressed satisfaction about the good reports on the hunt. Lessons learned from this hunt will assist in future hunts. Some concern has been expressed about the commercialization of the baleen. Gary noted that planning was left uncomfortably late. When they departed for the Pangnirtung hunt site they did not yet have in their possession a licence that was signed by the Minister. Hunters in Pangnirtung would likely also do some things a bit differently next time. Gary suggested that there needs to be a more concrete mechanism for transmitting knowledge gained during each hunt.
8.H Bowhead Management Plan: 1998 Update
Dan Pike referred Members to the 1998 Update of the Management Plan for Bowhead Whales in the NSA. The Plan was developed by DFO with input from himself, Keith Hay and Michael d'Eça. Dan suggested that one of the major uses of such plans is to provide a concise and cohesive way of responding to external requests for information. Dan urged that such plans be available prior to any future hunts. The Board approved the 1998 Update of the NSA Bowhead Management Plan as presented. (Resolution 99-071)
8.I Establishing the Next TAH for Bowhead Whales
Dan Pike gave an overview of the fundamentals pertaining to establishment of total allowable harvests for bowhead whales. There are considered to be two stocks of these whales in the NSA: the Baffin Bay / Davis Strait stock, and the Foxe Basin/North Hudson Bay stock. Both stocks appear to be recovering despite minor harvests in recent years. By this reasoning, DFO has suggested that the following harvest levels should be “safe”:
Dan suggested that enough new information is available for the Foxe Basin/North Hudson Bay stock to justify a review of previous assumptions and a re-assessment of the safe harvest level, with the prospect of enlarging it. He recommended that DFO be encouraged to conduct such an analysis. In the meantime, and in consideration that the previous harvest was in 1996, Dan suggested that there was no good reason to preclude setting a total allowable harvest of one bowhead whale from this stock for 1999. It was noted that this should be done soon, if it is in fact going to be done, since planning will probably be more complicated with two Regions potentially involved. David Tagoona asked if Baker Lake would be eligible to participate. It was suggested that this would depend on an interpretation of whether Baker Lake community realistically had bowhead whales available to it.
Harry Flaherty asked if the DFO studies of bowhead whales in Foxe Basin have been completed. Dan advised that they are still ongoing, but that this should be the final year of field work. Ben Kovic asked when DFO could be expected to complete a stock status update. Gary Weber indicated that he would have to ask the Stock Assessment Group in Winnipeg . He doubted that there is much new information, so the task should be relatively easy. Dan took issue with this interpretation, suggesting that there should be a lot of new information based on all the recent DFO research. In any event, Dan suggested that the old stock status report would be adequate to set a TAH of one bowhead whale from this stock for 1999. Harry Flaherty indicated that he is not satisfied with continuing to rely on the old information, and would like to hear about the recent research. Raymond Ningeocheak (NTI) noted that the Inuit Bowhead Knowledge Study is supposed to be completed by now and asked when it will be available. Ben replied that the IBK Study is on the Meeting agenda, however reporting on this work has assuredly been delayed.
Gordon Koshinsky reviewed the history of the NWMB setting TAH for the two previous harvests. The first, and by some interpretations also the second, of those harvests were in fact mandated by the NLCA. The Board in essence had little choice but to follow the course that it did. In his view, however, Eastern Arctic bowhead whales are still a scarce resource, far below their historic levels even if they are recovering. He was not comfortable for the NWMB to lead the way in encouraging the harvest of these animals. Gordon asked if the Board had received any formal enquiries about another bowhead hunt. Ben Kovic replied that Coral Harbour residents had approached him to that effect. Dan pointed out that establishing a TAH does not establish a requirement to harvest. He noted that Inuit have never wavered in expressing their desire to harvest bowhead whales, and he considered it incumbent on the NWMB to make the opportunity available if possible. Gary Weber suggested that if the next hunt were delayed until at least the year 2000 it would give more reasonable opportunity for the other two Regions to plan for it, based on the hunt experience in 1998. Kevin McCormick suggested that the Board take more time to consider this matter. He interpreted that bowhead harvesting beyond what has already been approved would move the matter into a distinct new phase. He also noted that the NLCA directs that results of the IBKS be taken into account whenever the matter of setting another TAH for bowhead whales is revisited. Harry Flaherty suggested that the NWMB not establish another TAH earlier than the year 2000, in order to better enable harvest planning. Raymond Ningeocheak suggested that with two hunts now completed, a third hunt should be easier to plan. The Board decided to await an updated status report from DFO before proceeding further on the matter of establishing a TAH for a third bowhead harvest.
8.J Conservation Plan for Eastern Arctic Bowhead Whales: WWF
Dan Pike advised that he was requested to make a presentation to the Meeting on behalf of Peter Ewins, Director of the World Wildlife Fund ( Canada ) Species Program. The WWF has conducted similar planning projects for other groups of animals and considers it useful to promote recovery of threatened or endangered populations. This type of plan identifies what needs to be done, by whom, and at what cost. It provides a blueprint for conservation. WWF will establish a conservation planning team and would hope to have a NWMB Board or staff member as part of the team. The NWMB is not being asked for funding; WWF expects to fund the work themselves along with DFO. They would however expect the NWMB to provide data and information and perhaps some support in kind.
Board staff expressed some concern that this project may overlap with other initiatives, and no real action may be possible in any event. Kevin McCormick questioned if DFO sees any value in developing such a plan. Gary Weber suggested that such a plan would demonstrate to the international community that everyone (DFO included) is giving full and serious consideration to the conservation of Eastern Arctic bowhead whales. Gary also noted that it is not an expensive proposition. Kevin asked if there is a status report or recovery plan for Eastern Arctic bowhead whales under COSEWIC. Dan replied that there is a very old status report, but no recovery plan. Kevin asked if a recovery plan developed as part of this exercise would be sanctioned by COSEWIC as per endangered species legislation. If not, maybe the Board should focus on one or the other exercise. Harry Flaherty expressed concern about providing unpublished TEK information. Michael d'Eça noted that the NWMB is required to function as any government department in providing access to information, but can refuse to give access if it has valid reasons.
Gordon Koshinsky supported the proposal, suggesting that not to do so would cast the NWMB as unreasonably isolationist. He noted that the WWF has supported limited bowhead hunting. Michael d'Eça suggested that this item would be subject to Section 5.2.34(d) of the NLCA. That is, any conservation plan that was developed would be subject to NWMB approval, with that approval then forwarded to the DFO Minister. The Board decided to support the WWF proposal in principle, subject to clarification about the relationship of the initiative to the mandate of COSEWIC. (Resolution 99-072)
8.K Litigation Proceedings regarding Turbot: Review and Update
The Board decided to go in-camera to consider a briefing of a confidential nature on the litigation proceedings regarding turbot. No decisions were made in-camera that required subsequent referral to the open Board Meeting.
Resolutions passed in connection with this in-camera session were as follows:
9. GNWT Wildlife (RWED): Issues/Decisions
Stephen Atkinson, Stephen Pinksen and Mitch Campell (Regional Biologist, Keewatin ) made presentations on behalf of RWED.
9.A Polar Bear Harvest 1997/98: Final Report
Stephen Atkinson advised that MOUs between RWED and the affected communities are in effect for all polar bear populations in the NSA. All communities in Nunavut have annual quotas for harvesting polar bears. A total of 414 bears were harvested during the 1997/98 season. Kill reports were much improved and no overall quotas were exceeded for any population. For four populations, however, the composition of the harvest did exceed the target sex ratio of two or more males for every female. Two particular communities harvested more bears than their allotted number of tags.
Joan Scottie asked why harvested bears are classified as female when the sex is not recorded. Stephen explained the logic for the incorporation of this provision in the MOUs. Ben Kovic reported that Igloolik indicated that almost all bears in their area are female and are worried that they will be penalized indefinitely. Stephen noted that Igloolik has the option of trading credits with other communities harvesting the same population. Igloolik will still be able to harvest polar bears, but not to the levels that would be permitted if males were taken in greater proportion. Pauloosie Keyootak suggested that elders should be teaching the ability to differentiate between male and female polar bears within the school system.
9.B Polar Bear Quotas for 1998/99
Stephen Atkinson explained the rationale and operation of the Flexible Quota System for polar bears. Highlights of the 1997/98 season were as follows:
Recommended quota increases for 1998/99 are as follows:
Recommended quota reductions for 1998/99 are as follows:
Makabe Nartok asked what occurs when a cub is harvested that is larger than the mother. Stephen replied that harvesting of a family group is illegal, regardless of whether the cubs are large or small. Harry Flaherty asked if all the communities were notified of the proposed quota changes. Stephen replied that all communities were notified; they needed to be aware of what was in store in order to make or respond to requests for transfer of credits. Dan Pike wondered why some communities are having problems: is it due to hunters not being aware of the requirement? Or is it due to hunters not being able to distinguish between the sexes? Or is it due in those instances to a relative scarcity of male polar bears? Pauloosie Keyootak suggested that the problem stems from inadequate training of young people.
The Board approved the RWED recommendation to increase polar bear quotas for four communities for 1998/99 as noted above. (Resolution 99-075)
The Board approved the RWED recommendation to decrease polar bear quotas for four communities for 1998/99 as noted above. (Resolution 99-076) 9.C Polar Bear Handling Effects: Update
Stephen Atkinson advised that the study on the effects of capture and handling techniques used during research on polar bears is continuing, albeit with some delay. Stephen noted that the Minutes from the last NWMB meeting indicated concern that hunter information is not being incorporated. Stephen explained that this was not the intention for the first phase of the study. If this emerged as a real concern, it would need to be incorporated into a succeeding phase .
9.D Peary Caribou Research and Management: Update
Stephen Atkinson advised that a survey of Peary caribou on the Eastern Queen Elizabeth Islands (Ellesmere and Devon ) is planned for the spring of 1999.
Two groups of RWED staff were in the Western QE Islands this summer for other work. They saw indications that 80% of the adult females were accompanied by calves. No carcasses were sighted and it would appear that the caribou had a good winter. At least the situation has not deteriorated.
9.E Caribou Calving Ground Protection Measures: Update
Stephen Atkinson advised that a workshop on Protection Measures for Caribou Calving Grounds is being planned for November.
9.F Population Status of Arctic Wolves: Update
Stephen Atkinson advised that COSEWIC is currently revising its status report on the Arctic Wolf. RWED is contributing to this effort by updating information on harvest levels and trends in prey. The NWMB Harvest Study has been approached for data, and RWED is also planning a hunter survey.
9.G Thelon Wildlife Management Plan: Update
Stephen Atkinson advised that there were plans for a meeting between KIA, NWMB and RWED in conjunction with the current NWMB Baker Lake meeting. Just a few days ago KIA (the DIO for the plan) advised that they would not be able to attend. Concerns regarding the plan have been tabulated and appear less substantive than was initially perceived. Stephen stressed that this is not a RWED or Government plan, and the committee that prepared it was dissolved in the belief that its task was complete. Stephen suggested that most of the remaining problems could be resolved in the course of implementation. He noted that the plan was expensive to prepare and it would be unfortunate to see this effort wasted. David Tagoona referred to a videotape that was prepared by the Planning Committee as a source of clarification of intent and process. The Board took time to watch the video.
9.H Wildlife Resource Centre/Library: Update
Stephen Atkinson noted that this was a joint project by RWED, NWMB, DFO and NRI to establish a resource centre for wildlife information. These agencies are currently cataloguing all the reports, books, journals, etc. in their collections. Nunavut RWED has a major thrust underway to transfer their archives from Yellowknife . Each agency will continue to house its own materials. Gordon Koshinsky asked if this cataloguing is just for material that is physically located in Nunavut . Dan Pike advised that it was for Nunavut-based material only. Gordon also asked about material from CWS. Kevin McCormick advised that CWS does not have resource material in the NSA.
9.I Wildlife Research Partnership: Recommendation
Stephen Atkinson advised that some RWED officials are planning a trip to Greenland in October to visit their counterparts there. They are also planning to visit the Greenland Natural Resource Institute. This institute is not part of government although it is funded by government. It seems to be cost-effective and might be a model for RWED in Nunavut . RWED is inviting the NWMB to consider being part of this tour.
9.J Wildlife Act Revisions: Update
Stephen Pinksen advised that a full review of the NWT Wildlife Act has been initiated. It will lead to an options paper for the new Minister on development of a Nunavut Wildlife Act. RWED hopes to start community consultations on this matter by November. The contractor has produced several small research papers for discussion. Michael d'Eça noted that the consultant's proposal for the next phase appears to leave little opportunity for consultation with partners such as the NWMB. Gordon Koshinsky urged that RWED not wait until the very end to seek collaboration on the drafting initiatives.
9.K Shared RWED/NWMB Conservation Education Position: Update
Stephen Pinksen advised that a job description was finalized for this position and a search for candidates has started. A similar position recently advertised did not produce any suitable candidates and will have to be advertised again. Stephen advised that a national conference on Conservation Education is coming up soon and it is hoped to have a person on staff to attend.
9.L Traditional Polar Bear Hunt Proposal: Final Decision
Michael d'Eça reviewed the history of events stemming from the request by a resident of Coral Harbour to conduct a traditional polar bear hunt. He also reviewed the options available to the Board in light of the Minister’s disallowance of the Board’s affirmative decision in May. Michael reiterated the importance of classifying this as a policy decision. Kevin McCormick asked if changing the non-quota limitations would open this option to other proponents. Michael advised that it would open up the field but that the NWMB could put criteria in place for any future requests. Gordon Koshinsky noted that the NWMB made its decision before it received recommendations from all the RWOs. Members again noted that most people support the traditional hunt aspect, but tend to oppose the filming. The Board decided to reaffirm its initial decision to allow an Inuk to harvest a polar bear in the traditional manner, and to forward this final decision to the Minister. (Resolution 99-077)
Community Feast and Public Meeting
A community feast followed by a public meeting and dance on Wednesday evening was well attended by the residents of Baker Lake .
Thursday, 27 August 1998 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
