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Wapusk News The Voice of Issue 8, 2015

A Classroom for the World

A New in Wapusk National Park? Wapusk News

Wapusk National Park A classroom for the world

ISAMR students Parks looking at a quadrant in Wapusk

National Park Jessica C Levine

hen it comes to learning, nothing beats hands-on Not only does this learning benefit the students, it also activity. Being immersed in the environment benefits . Our mandate is to protect and W you are studying, particularly a unique and present national treasures like Wapusk NP. When people challenging environment like Wapusk National Park (NP), share what they have learned about the park, our staff are can lead to a richer, more memorable experience. In this better able to communicate why it is so important to protect context, Wapusk is much more than a national park—it is a this special place for future generations. classroom. Students also assist Parks Canada in building awareness Students from the high school and university levels come and understanding of the parks throughout Canada, to the park every year to learn. High school students and beyond. Students who have had the chance to spend conduct and assist with research activities through time in Wapusk NP often become ambassadors for the programs such as the Wapusk National Park Leadership park in their communities. For people who aren’t able Camp, the International Student-led Monitoring to visit, Parks Canada brings the park to them through and Research (ISAMR) camp, and the Junior Canadian the Parks Canada website (www.pc.gc.ca) and through Rangers. Graduate students working on their Master’s and outreach programs elsewhere in Canada, such as at the Doctoral degrees conduct world-class research in the park Journey to Churchill exhibit at the for their theses. in . From field courses examining food webs, offered This issue of Wapusk News features stories and student jointly by Dr. Jim Roth (University of ) and Parks reflections highlighting the various types of learning that Canada for the first time in 2014, to facilitated projects at takes place in this outdoor classroom. Please enjoy these both the Nester One and Nestor Two research camps, there stories of learning in Wapusk NP—you just might learn are many opportunities for active learning in Wapusk NP. something yourself!

2 Wapusk National Park Wapusk News Superintendent’s Contents Update Issue 8, 2015

Wapusk National Park: Robert Löken 2 A classroom for the world Acting Superintendent Wapusk National Park and Manitoba North National Historic Sites Superintendent’s Update 3

Wapusk National Park Leadership Camp t is my great pleasure to be writing to you this first time 4 as the Acting Superintendent of Wapusk National Park I (NP) and Manitoba North National Historic Sites. Students on Ice 6 In late September of 2014 I was thrilled to accept this What is ISAMR? 8 opportunity to live and work in Churchill. I arrived ISAMR – Summer 2014: A student’s 8 in October and since then, reflections on Wapusk National Park I have had nothing but positive experiences. It Wapusk National Park: Breathtaking! 10 took a few weeks to get myself up to speed on the Wapusk National Park Map files that I now lead, but 12 by January, I was truly immersed into the work Churchill Junior Canadian Rangers 13 at hand. and ISAMR Work Together

On behalf of Parks The Coast Northern Field Canada and the Wapusk 15 School: Wildlife and Ethnoecology of Management Board, I am happy to share with you Manitoba Coastal Region the following update: Robert Löken Bringing Wapusk to Winnipeg The Wapusk Management 16 Board welcomes a new A New Bear in Wapusk National Park? member, Jan Collins, representing the Government of 17 Canada. Jan brings his extensive experience as Tourism Development Consultant for the Province of Manitoba to Safety in Country 18 the board. The appointment of a new federal government representative means that John Williams’ three-year term What’s Happening! 19 on the board has come to an end. I take this opportunity Programs and Events – 2015 to thank John for his hard work and dedication to the Wapusk Management Board. I am looking forward to Wapusk Management Board Update working with all of the board members on the future of 20 Wapusk NP. All photographs copyright of Parks Canada unless otherwise stated. Management plans set the direction for national parks and national historic sites for a ten-year period. Two ON THE COVER Parks Canada places in are now in A Classroom for the World — photo by Jessica C Levine. line for a management plan review. York National A New Bear in Wapusk National Park? — photo by Manitoba Conservation Historic Site (NHS) management planning is currently and Water Stewardship underway. Consultations with , partners and stakeholders on the future of this site will be a key aspect of the process. Wapusk NP is also entering the preliminary stages of management planning. Although consultations continued on page 5

Issue 8 – 2015 3 Wapusk News

Wapusk National Park Leadership Camp

Heather MacLeod the camp, including hikes and presentations in Wapusk NP to Interpretive Coordinator learn more about the archaeology, Wapusk National Park wildlife and research taking place. The Churchill experience includes Summer 2015 marks the sixth year that a visit to Parks Canada has offered an exciting National Historic Site (including a combination of visitor experience beluga whale watching opportunity), training, interpretation and leadership a tour of the Eskimo Museum skill development and an introduction and a presentation by a Manitoba to field work for Manitoba youth Conservation and Water Stewardship in Grades 11 and 12 at the Wapusk Natural Resource Officer about the National Park Leadership Camp, held Polar Bear Alert program. in the park. The camp began in 2009 Here, two past Leadership Camp with five students from Churchill, participants from Winnipeg share building to capacity in 2013 with 14 their thoughts on the value of this students. The range of communities experience... from which the participating students come has also increased. Students from Participating in the Wapusk National Park Leadership Camp Churchill, First Nation Top: Dr. Larry Dyke and Miguel Lopez collecting and Fox Lake Cree Nation continue to water samples in 2010 strongly impacted my perspective on sciences and the be the primary focus for recruitment, Above: Lateesha Redhead and Dylan O’Nabigon at but participation has diversified to Wapusk National Park Leadership Camp environment. I am currently in my include representation from other third year of Engineering at the northern communities, as well as will spend three nights at the Nester University of Manitoba specializing urban, rural, francophone and new One research camp. When not camping in Environmental Engineering. Canadians. in the park, students stay at the My experience at camp helped me Churchill Northern Studies Centre, to develop an appreciation for the Wapusk National Park Leadership experiencing the atmosphere of this various ecosystems this province has Camp 2015 promises to be another world-renowned northern learning and to offer as well as to look towards enriching experience for Manitoba research facility. safe development and preservation youth. New this year is that students in the future. will fly to Churchill instead of travelling Parks Canada staff, community by train, resulting in the benefit experts and facilitators, including My experiences at the Leadership of extending the camp to six days. a First Nation representative, will Camp helped shape my character Participants will then be flown to provide a wide range of exciting and gave me the self-confidence to Wapusk National Park (NP) where they programs and activities during continue to try new things. While

4 Wapusk National Park Wapusk News at camp, I was treated with respect Superintendent’s Update and trust and given responsibility that helped me realize that I could be continued from page 3 independent and confident with my decisions. are not scheduled to begin until 2016, it is now time to establish the scope — Katherine Meese of work to be completed. New visitor activities are an important component in enabling Parks Canada to connect with Canadians and to the public at large. Parks Canada I had never been up north. Prior to has recently convened a working group to develop unique experiences only attending the Wapusk National Park available in the North, to be promoted under the banner of Northern Iconic Leadership Camp in 2012, I had Experiences. The Parks Canada Northern Iconic Experience for Wapusk only a vague concept of Canadian NP is a five-day visit that includes overnight stays at York Factory NHS, longitudes above Winnipeg. Sure, I Wapusk NP and at Prince of Wales Fort NHS. During this trip, visitors will had travelled, but to this day no place experience unique interpretive programs with First Nation storytellers has left me so profoundly impacted as at York Factory NHS, wildlife viewing while hiking in Wapusk NP, and Churchill and Wapusk National Park. sleeping in prospector tents at Prince of Wales Fort NHS. The Leadership Camp immersed me Research is also a big part of the work done by Parks Canada and its partners. in the northern community. I learned Wapusk NP ecologist Chantal Ouimet has completed and presented a new about local culture from community ecological integrity monitoring plan for the park. This plan lays out the foundation members. I met scientists dedicated for monitoring and research for the next ten years in order to build upon the to their research based out of the understanding of the different ecosystems that make up Wapusk NP. This plan will Churchill Northern Studies Centre. I also help us build on an already positive relationship with our research partners. saw belugas and an abandoned rocket range; and I flew in a helicopter to a These are but a few of the initiatives in place for this year. There are far too land that so few people have had the many to list here, so if you are interested in learning more about what Parks opportunity to set foot on. Canada is doing, please know that I am always interested in your comments on our programs, ideas for new offerings or suggested improvements. I can be These experiences impacted every reached at 204-675-8863 or [email protected]. participant in the camp positively. This program not only exposed me to aspects of our country I had never encountered, but also developed Did You Know? leadership skills that have followed me into other aspects of my life. Remote field cameras are being used in Wapusk Following the camp, I adopted a National Park (NP) for both monitoring and bigger leadership role in my high research activities. Cameras are mounted at the school and community. The camp Cape Churchill tower, Nester One Field Station, was a major influence on my choice Broad River Camp and Owl River Camp to to leave home and study biology at monitor the wildlife that move through the area. Trent University. I don’t know if it’s Wapusk NP is working with Dr. Doug Clark of the fact that I feel so privileged to the University of to determine University of Saskatchewan Clark, © Dr.Douglas have experienced a slice of northern if polar are attracted to these structures. passing by the camera in Wapusk National Park life or if it’s just that nothing seems Utah State University PhD student David Iles is as daunting after you’ve strolled using remote cameras in eider duck colonies through polar bear country, but I to see which predators enter the colony and to • polar bear • lemming have been able to navigate my young determine the search patterns they use to find • • adult life with confidence, which the duck nests. Dr. Jim Roth of the University • black bear • I largely attribute to having had of Manitoba has positioned cameras at fox (including a • Canada goose these experiences. I’ve since hiked dens to study fox behaviour. Over the next year, cinnamon bear) • redpoll the Mantario trail, gotten a pine Parks Canada will be installing cameras at three • moose • common eider tree tattoo and spent as much time remote weather stations to monitor snow depth • • wolf exploring outdoors as possible. These and patterns. • herring gull • arctic hare experiences continue to have an Although Wapusk NP is well known for its polar • raven impact on me everyday and I couldn’t bears, there are many other species that can be • caribou • ptarmigan be more grateful for having had them. found in the area. All of these animals have been • arctic fox • golden eagle — Anais Giasson captured on camera... • • bald eagle

Issue 8 – 2015 5 Wapusk News

Evigheds Fjord, Students on Ice Greenland

Heather MacLeod n 2014 Parks Canada entered into a three-year agreement to sponsor student Interpretive Coordinator participation in Students on Ice, an award-winning organization offering Wapusk National Park I unique educational expeditions to the Antarctic and the Arctic. Students on Ice provides students, educators and scientists from around the world with Austin McPherson inspiring educational opportunities at the ends of the Earth and, in doing so, Students on Ice Participant helps them foster a new understanding and respect for the planet. Through Duke of Marlborough School, Churchill this initiative, Parks Canada is supporting youth and Aboriginal leadership development and building connections between northern and southern Canada.

The Students on Ice Arctic Youth Austin met the qualifications for the program with magical mountain Expedition 2014, a ship and position of Apprentice Polar Bear views and mystical weather. It was land-based journey, explored the Monitor and worked throughout his the perfect “photo op” for Austin and eastern Canadian Arctic and western employment under the supervision the other students, resulting in some Greenland for two weeks in July, of Parks Canada Polar Bear Safety truly spectacular pictures capturing involving 86 international students, Attendant and firearms instructor the beauty of the Arctic. ages 14 to 18, and a team of 49 Kevin Burke, helping to keep the staff Each day travelling on board the world-class scientists, historians, and visitors at Prince of Wales Fort Sea Adventurer vessel was filled with artists, explorers, educators, leaders, National Historic Site safe. It was a activities and workshops designed innovators and polar experts. good year for an extra pair of eyes at to encourage dialogue and learning Thirteen high school and university the fort as there was a polar bear on on the many issues that surround students from across Canada were site almost every day of the summer the changing Arctic. The facilitators chosen to represent Parks Canada season! encouraged interaction with people in as part of this two-part summer The Students on Ice expedition the community stops along the way. program. Each student was hired portion of the program climaxed Cultural traditions were explored to experience Parks Canada as a Austin’s busy summer with Parks through music, dance, games, food summer employee, and also to Canada. The international trip and workshops. represent a national park on an itinerary first took the students to This remarkable, once-in-a-lifetime expedition to the high Arctic with Greenland and then to Canada’s experience for youth attracted much the other international students. coastal Labrador to explore the media attention. Austin proudly Representing Wapusk National magnificent Torngat Mountains represented Parks Canada and Park was Austin McPherson, an National Park. Arrival day in the park Churchill as he participated in radio 18-year-old student attending the was described by seasoned veterans and newspaper interviews. He shares Duke of Marlborough School in of Students On Ice as one of the most some of his personal reflections in Churchill. beautiful days in the history of the the following article.

6 Wapusk National Park Wapusk News

My name is Austin McPherson. I am an 18 pace. Choosing the slowest climbing group, I was year-old high school graduate currently living able to take my time and enjoy the view. About in Churchill, Manitoba. In early June of 2014, I two-thirds of the way up we decided to stop for a was made aware of an incredible, once-in-a- 20-minute break. We sat down and some people lifetime opportunity to work for Parks Canada unpacked some snacks they brought, while others and to travel from northern Canada across to simply lay down to watch the clouds, conversing Greenland by boat, through a program called with people around them. I just sat there enjoying Students on Ice—an opportunity I was not going the amazing view. Mountains as far as the eye pass up! When I was accepted I was excited could see—360 degrees around me. Suddenly, at to hear more about the awesome summer job the corner of my eye, I was pleasantly surprised working for Parks Canada that would start after by a beautiful , covered in various shades my expedition was over, which only added to the of yellow and orange with some black spots. It immense excitement I was feeling. Immediately fluttered around a bit, then landed on a leaf about after starting with Parks Canada I was excited to two or three inches away from me. I sat there, accompany staff to Cape Churchill in the northern motionless, just watching this beautiful creature. end of Wapusk National Park. This was my first Our group leader called over to me to let me know trip by helicopter and my first time at the Cape. we were going to start climbing again. I looked Later in July, the Students on Ice journey began over to acknowledge what they said and when I with three days spent in Ottawa at Carleton looked back the butterfly was gone. University where we did some pre-expedition Every day was a new experience. We visited activities such as getting to know the staff and places few people in the world have ever been. students with whom we would be spending the We saw things most people could only dream next two-and-a-half weeks on a boat. We learned of. But most of all, I got the chance to meet about the Arctic environment and some of the some of the most incredible people I will ever wildlife we might encounter on our journey. We also have the privilege of meeting. Everything about had some fun doing team-building activities like the trip was a life-changing experience. I hope zip lining and jumping off a 40-foot tower onto a to someday go on another expedition with giant airbag! After the few days in Ottawa, we were Students On Ice. ready to begin our expedition. We flew from Ottawa to Kuujjuaq, to board our expedition vessel, A few days after I got back, I started my summer job at Parks Canada as an Apprentice Bear the Sea Adventurer, which was more like a luxury Top: Austin McPherson at Nachvak Fjord, Torngat cruise ship than an expedition ship. Monitor. I was trained by Kevin Burke, Parks Mountains National Park, Labrador Canada’s Polar Bear Safety Attendant and firearms Once we boarded the ship, we were greeted by Middle: Komaktorvik Fjord, Torngat Mountains instructor in Churchill. My job was to keep an eye National Park the amazing staff of the Sea Adventurer. They out for polar bears as the Parks Canada Heritage were some of the friendliest, most helpful people Bottom: Nachvak Fjord, Torngat Mountains Presenters conducted tours at Prince of Wales Fort National Park, Labrador I have ever met who made an effort to try to get to National Historic Site. I was outfitted with a pair know each and every one of us. After a few crew of binoculars, a radio and a starter pistol which introductions and some safety demonstrations, fired “screamer” and “bear banger” shells, both would commence. Most of the time I was posted we set sail. of which make a very loud noise to scare away on the wall of the fort, using binoculars to spot Our first morning was incredible. We had a few bears that get too close. Thankfully, I never had to bears before they got close, as well as reporting workshops on the ship followed by an excursion use the starter pistol. any bears that were in the vicinity. At the end of each day we filled out a report stating how many in the Zodiac boats to the abandoned village of Every morning, weather permitting, Parks Canada bears we observed, where they were observed, the Port Burwell (Killinniq). It was a day of excitement staff took a five-minute boat ride across the condition they were in (fat, skinny, etc.) and what as we took in the magnificent view and later, Churchill River to Prince of Wales Fort. Kevin Burke they were doing at the time we spotted them. Most overwhelming sadness as we learned the story of and I, on all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), checked the days we observed at least one bear which made the abandonment of Port Burwell. At the end of the site for polar bears before the Zodiacs pulled for some memorable experiences for visitors to the day I was exhausted, but still wasn’t able to sleep up with visitors and the tours of the fort began. national historic site. as I anticipated what the next day would bring. We We drove a designated route around the fort site had such an incredible first day; I couldn’t wait to looking for polar bears that were sleeping or on The trip with Students on Ice and the exciting see what the next two weeks would hold! the move. If one were too close to the fort or the job with Parks Canada were the most enjoyable This trip had many, many memorable moments. kiosk (where people disembark from the boats) we summer experiences I have ever had in my life. One that I remember most clearly was would work to move the bear away from the area. I’m extremely glad and grateful I was given that probably the least exciting, yet one of the most Usually, once we got close on the ATV, the bears opportunity. unforgettable. It was our second day in the Torngat would “high tail” it the other way. If they refused to — Austin McPherson, Churchill, Manitoba Mountains National Park. We had just spent about run, we would have to use bear bangers to scare an hour-and-a-half hiking up a ridge. We split into them off. We would report any bears in the area, Enjoy a video of the Students on Ice 2014 three groups, each group with a varying climbing and once the site was cleared, the tours of the site expedition at https://youtu.be/iD63YccfGe4

Issue 8 – 2015 7 Wapusk News ISAMR – Summer 2014 A student’s reflections on Wapusk National Park

Cory Silver beyond the physical aspects of this region (although affording plenty of The Park School of Baltimore time to gasp in awe at the incredible Baltimore, Maryland, USA topography and life of the north), and truly get in touch with the land, my peers, and myself. It was an opportunity Waking up this morning in my warm, to participate in authentic scientific cozy bed, encased in a soft blanket, research as a high school student. In the I realized I didn’t want to be here; I end, what I viewed as a research trip had wanted to be somewhere else. I longed become so much more. to wake up in the middle of the tundra under the wide open sky, in a tent that I was blown away the moment I took my was whipping in the wind. I longed to be first step onto the tundra after getting off amongst my beautifully unique, newly the helicopter in Wapusk National Park. found family, sitting down to a warm I felt like I was entering a remarkable breakfast at Nester One. It seemed like place, untouched by humans, and a strange thought at first, but then I instantly felt honored to be there. At the realized what an impact this past two same time, I felt connected to the land, week journey has had on me. I missed and it seemed like you couldn’t get any closer to pure nature than this. It felt everyone and everything about the trip. incredible to think that every time we When people think of the Arctic, they set out on a hike, the path we chose may think of what physically constitutes have never felt human footprints before. its landscapes: tundra, polar bears, or The land itself seemed alive, as it had perhaps caribou and dog sleds. This center stage with no visual competition, Cory Silver in Wapusk National Park ISAMR trip gave me the opportunity to look aside from the majestic creatures that

What is ISAMR? ed Arctic M t-l o n ni e to The International Student-Led Arctic Monitoring and Research program (ISAMR) is a coalition of high d r u i school students and educators from Canada and the United States who share the common goal of t n S g

thoughtfully and respectfully monitoring the effects of global climate change as perceived through l a a

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the flora and fauna of the greater Churchill/Wapusk Ecosystem. This international research team, n

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Annually, about 40 Canadian students from Winnipeg and Churchill, and ten American students from r e

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Baltimore, participate in the fieldwork and data collection aspects of the program in August, October r

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c I and February while another 50 participate in weekly ISAMR meetings. During ISAMR meetings, h students learn about Arctic ecology, analyze data, develop presentations for international scientific conferences, and prepare for each of the three field expeditions.

8 Wapusk National Park Wapusk News

Did You Know?

• Domestic and wild caribou are considered to be the same species – Rangifer tarandus. • Caribou make a distinctive clicking sound when they walk. This is the sound of the tendon slipping over the bones in the foot of the caribou.

ISAMR is collecting data as part of a 30-year study on permafrost. • Both male and female caribou sport antlers

Jessica C Levine which makes them the only animal in the family to do so. The males have much larger antlers with a distinctive shovel (also roamed its terrain. In Wapusk, there these breathtaking moments, and we called a tine or plough) that grows out the was a certain harmony between our equally shared in the joy of seeing the front of the antler. group and the environment around majesty of a beluga whale swimming • The coat of the caribou is comprised of us, a balance difficult to find back in in the Churchill River, or the Aurora hollow hairs that trap the heat, making civilization. As the days passed, and we Borealis dancing above our heads. the fur very warm. Caribou fur is favoured continued our research, I came to the I don’t think my eyes have ever been for clothing among the Inuit. The hollow realization that I understood this piece opened so wide for such a long period hairs also contribute to the buoyancy of the of earth better than I knew my own of time, and I didn’t want to close them, caribou, making swimming easier. backyard. not even for a second; I don’t think • The caribou population in Wapusk National Having the opportunity to do field anyone did. We opened up to each other Park is estimated to be 3,000 animals. work at this age really sparked my as only people so tired, yet at the same • During the summer season caribou can be interest in pursuing the sciences time so alive can, and we became an spotted huddled in the ocean, attempting to beyond high school. I’ve always intimate group that worked and played escape from the biting insects which plague had a keen passion for my science well together; we became a diverse the herds in the warmest weeks. classes in school, although I often family. I am so grateful for the adults felt intimidated (despite being very who were willing and brave enough to intrigued) by research done outside of take a group of high school students to the classroom. I was never certain if my such a remote (and remarkable) place. love for science in the classroom would It took an amazing group of people to manifest in the field. However, now be part of this journey, and I felt very there are few things that can match my privileged to get to know them. passion for the incredible research we To end this reflection, there’s one do every August (and October). As a final point, however petty, that I feel student scientist working in the field, is essential to this musing: The Arctic I also realized that the information changed my definition of home. In the we were collecting, dissecting and past, when I’ve traveled, no matter how analyzing not only helped answer deeply connected I’ve been to a place, our questions and helped us gain home has always been Baltimore; I’ve knowledge—it went beyond that: always thought of house and home it advocated for something that couldn’t as synonyms. However, on our way speak for itself—the environment back from Cape Churchill, after our surrounding us. Our work was genuine second full day in Wapusk, someone and significant on more than one level. asked how far we were from “home.” One of, if not the most important aspect It took everyone a moment to realize of ISAMR is the people who form it. that Nester One was not “home” in The altruism between a group of people the traditional sense. The fact a place who didn’t even know each other a few can become “home” in a mere two weeks ago is astounding. How can you and a half days truly shows the impact not get close to the people around you such an adventure and such a place when sharing such incredible daily, no, can have. And now, as I write the last hourly, no, minute-by-minute memories sentence sitting in the basement of my together? Your peers become part of house in Baltimore, I long for home. University of Saskatchewan Clark, © Dr.Douglas Caribou

Issue 8 – 2015 9 Wapusk News

Wapusk National Park Jessica C Levine Breathtaking! b c d

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b ISAMR students relaxing g c Polar bear mother and cub d Alpine azalea h e Labrador tea f Polar bears at sunset g Canoeing on the Broad River h Tundra ponds in Wapusk National Park i Camp at Broad River j Caribou i j

11 Wapusk News Wapusk National Park

12 Wapusk National Park Wapusk News

Churchill Junior Canadian Rangers and ISAMR Work Together

Jill Larkin Canadian Ranger Master Corporal Leader of the Churchill Junior Canadian Ranger Patrol

In small communities like Churchill, many people wear more than one hat. In my case, I am both a Resource Management Officer for Parks Canada and a Canadian Ranger, a part of the Reserve Force of the Canadian Armed Forces. While on duty for Parks Canada, I enjoy working and travelling in Wapusk National Park (NP). The Canadian Ranger program allows me to

explore the land surrounding Wapusk Jessica C Levine NP. As a Canadian Ranger, I have many Junior Canadian Rangers Dania Meeko (second from left) and Jordan Bunka (second from right) whale watching on the exciting experiences, like running check Churchill River with ISAMR students and teachers points for the Hudson Bay Quest Dog Sled Race, working with search-and- of whom are female in the 12-14 age “citizen science” because the students rescue exercises, training the Army in group. Our patrol activities include not only collect data, they direct the wilderness survival and going on shooting, sewing, hiking and learning research, conduct the data analysis trips in southern Manitoba. I am lucky survival skills. We also go out on the and submit papers to peer-reviewed to have two jobs where I spend a lot of land for camping trips at least three scientific journals. In addition to their time camping, canoeing, snowmobiling, times per year, usually in the winter by 30-year permafrost study, they assist Dr. shooting and hiking. snowmobile. We have different themes Jim Roth (University of Manitoba) with for the trips, such as trapping, hunting, fox research and participate in cultural One of my most rewarding and survival, ice fishing and recently, activities. Like all researchers, ISAMR interesting duties as a Canadian environmental and wildlife research. students present at various scientific Ranger is leading the Junior Canadian conferences, where they are often The idea of involving the Churchill Ranger (JCR) Patrol in Churchill. assumed to be university students JCRs in research activities came about The JCR program is a community- due to the high calibre of their work. in August 2013 when I was tasked by based program open to youth ages (See Cory Silver’s article on page 8 of Parks Canada to spend a week with a 12 to 18 and led by members of the this issue of Wapusk News.) local Canadian Ranger patrol with group of high school students doing support from the community and permafrost monitoring at Nester One While I was at Nester One with this the Department of National Defence. research camp in Wapusk NP. The amazing group, I began to think We customize the program to teach group, known as the International about how the Junior Ranger patrol locally-relevant Ranger, traditional Student-led Arctic Monitoring and was missing out on an opportunity. and life skills. In addition to local Research (ISAMR) program, consisted Most Churchill youth have never had activities and camping trips, the JCRs of students and their teachers from the chance to experience Wapusk from patrols across Canada have Baltimore, Maryland (led by Julie NP, which is in their own backyard. opportunities to travel out of town Rogers from Park School) and With their skills on the land and local for events, such as summer camp, Winnipeg (led by Dr. Ryan Brook from knowledge, there are many ways shooting competitions and exchanges the University of Saskatchewan). that the JCRs could contribute to the ISAMR team. It turned out that Julie with other patrols across Canada. I soon realized that an ISAMR trip is was also interested in including local The Churchill JCR patrol consists of much more than a summer camp or a approximately 25 youth, the majority field course. ISAMR’s work goes beyond continued on next page

Issue 8 – 2015 13 Wapusk News

a technician from CNSC, travelled a layer of fat) and frozen moose meat with the JCRs to Nester One to help dipped in soya sauce. Ironically, the with the snowpack sampling. Dr. Jim vegetarians in the group really enjoyed Roth, who was planning to stay at the local meat and began referring to Nester One at that time with three of themselves as “cultural carnivores.” his grad students doing fox research, Dania and Jordan were able to share was happy to share the camp with the their experiences with the students by JCRs and be part of the exercise. giving a presentation on the April JCR snowpack sampling trip. It took about three hours to travel to Nester One. At the camp, the The JCRs were invited to participate in rock-hard snow was over 10 feet deep the fall ISAMR research project, Polar Bear Whisker Printing, based out of Dr. Jim Roth Dr. in places. It took 14 of us over four hours just to shovel out the doors of CNSC under the guidance of Dr. Jane the kitchen building and the bunk Waterman. She has developed the house. Later, we enjoyed a supper of methodology to identify individual spaghetti with moose meat sauce, an polar bears using photographs of evening snowmobile ride to Hudson their whisker patterns. In October, we Bay and finally, a well-earned rest. spent two days on a Tundra Buggy® photographing polar bears. In the The next morning was spent with evening, the students listened to Dr. Roth collecting data at three presentations by Dene Elder Caroline fox dens near Nester One. In the Bjorklund, Métis Elder Myrtle afternoon, we went to the three DeMuelles and researchers. The JCRs ISAMR permafrost monitoring sites gave a presentation about our program Churchill Junior Canadian Rangers to do the snowpack sampling. This and JCR Antonina Kandiurin did a Top: Junior Canadian Rangers Nickia McIvor and Jordan went smoothly due to the field training Bunka taking measurements in a snowpit in Wapusk NP presentation on hunting and trapping the JCRs had done with CNSC staff. Bottom: Junior Canadian Rangers Nickia McIvor, Khalee in the Churchill area. On the last day Palmer and Dania Meeko making bannock at Nester Our exercise was not only a science we went to my cabin at Goose Creek One research camp trip; we also did navigation training to enjoy a feast of lake trout, goose and explored the Cape Churchill area, and bannock. The students worked on which is about a one hour round trip continued from previous page sewing mitts and the JCRs toured the from Nester One by snowmobile. ISAMR students around the area by students in the ISAMR program, In August 2014, I travelled to Nester all-terrain vehicle. but did not know how to go about it. One with ISAMR for a second time, Overall, 2014 proved to be a successful Before the end of our trip, she offered except this time I was on leave from year for the JCR’s participation in to include a couple of the Churchill Parks Canada and was working as a ISAMR. In fact, it was so successful JCRs on the Nester One trip in 2014. Canadian Ranger. I was chaperoning that we were awarded a Promo Science Julie and I decided that the JCRs two JCRs, Jordan Bunka and Dania grant from the Natural Sciences would travel to Nester One by Meeko, who had been part of the and Engineering Research Council snowmobile in the winter to collect winter snowpack trip in April. They for three more years of funding. snowpack data. The JCR Adult had the opportunity to see Nester One Additionally, local student Jordan Committee and JCR Instructor in the summer, travel by helicopter Bunka was invited to Baltimore in Sergeant Danny Gosselin agreed and hike to the same fox dens that we the fall of 2014 for the Association of to fully fund the trip as one of had visited by snowmobile in April. Independent Maryland Schools annual our official exercises. Dr. LeeAnn We hiked to Cape Churchill on a conference to present our permafrost Fishback from the Churchill Northern very hot day which took 12 hours for data with the other ISAMR students. Studies Centre (CNSC) and Dr. a return trip, compared to the one Students also attended the Parks and Steve Mamet from the University hour it took by snowmobile. Dania, Protected Areas Research Forum of of , the local experts on Jordan and I cooked some Army Manitoba in Winnipeg in the fall of snowpack sampling, supported our rations for the ISAMR students to 2014 and ArcticNet, an international plans and offered us training. try. During the hike, we saw a couple conference held in Ottawa in The trip was set for April 18-21, 2014. of polar bears, as well as caribou, December 2014. Sergeant Danny Gosselin travelled which typically don’t come that close The JCRs and I are looking forward to to Churchill from Winnipeg to join to town. When we returned, we ate a second year of our relationship with the exercise, and Jackie Verstege, frozen muktuk (beluga whale skin with ISAMR and expanding the program!

14 Wapusk National Park The Hudson Bay Coast Northern Field School Wildlife and Ethnoecology of the Manitoba Coastal Region Wapusk eco-system since 1994. Joining him is Kristina Hunter, an Instructor at the University of Manitoba in the The Hudson Bay Coast Northern Department of Environment and Field School provides the opportunity Geography, who has been a co-instructor for university students to immerse since 2008. Parks Canada staff play themselves in the a vital role in the course from safety ecosystem, meet people from the management to course content. Churchill community and experience northern culture. Students participate The students spend a week at the in small research projects in Wapusk Churchill Northern Studies Centre, National Park (NP) and the Churchill followed by a stay at the Nester One area, as well as learn about the region, field station in Wapusk NP. One of the develop research skills and obtain real highlights of the trip is a hike from the experience working in a national park. Nester One base camp to Cape Churchill, a round trip of 32 km. The Cape is This hands-on learning takes many a distinctive feature within Wapusk forms. Practical skills are developed, NP—a series of beach ridges that extend including: collecting long-term well into Hudson Bay. During the fall monitoring data on permafrost and this area is known for the congregation vegetation cover, as well as designing Top: Hudson Bay Coast Northern Field School of polar bears awaiting the freeze-up participants at Cape Churchill, Wapusk National Park research projects on topics ranging of the Bay, and caribou are commonly Middle: Hudson Bay Coast Northern Field School from polar bear ecology, traditional seen as well. In 2014, students and instructor Kristina Hunter and students knowledge of berry harvesting and facilitators were treated to several polar Bottom: Dr. Ryan Brook teaching his students in the caribou distribution, lemming burrow Wapusk National Park “classroom” bear sightings on their journey to the ecology and responses to soil Cape which made for some engaging moisture. Critical thinking skills are back-country stories to tell around the honed through group discussions campfire for years to come! and via interactions with local Personal Reflection, individuals and Parks Canada staff. Students are asked to provide Parks Wapusk National Park Communication skills grow through Canada with their reflections on Darian Weber giving presentations and sharing their time spent in Wapusk NP (see experiences, and through team inset). This course clearly has a teaching opportunities. profound impact on each of the 157 Above: colours of blue, red, orange, (so far!) participants, with many yellow, purple lit with clouds in sight Since August 2004, this unique and commenting that the experience has engaging program has taken place Below: arctic avens, bearberries, been life-changing. Several course annually. Dr. Ryan Brook, Assistant tufted bulrush, seeds in flight participants have gone on to careers Professor in the College of Agriculture in Parks Canada, and a few are even There: polar bear, caribou, snow and Bioresources at the University of working in the Churchill area. geese and more Saskatchewan, has organized and led the program since 2005, and has been For more information contact: Here: a nest, warm blankets, good conducting research in the greater [email protected] company galore

Issue 8 – 2015 15 Wapusk News

Dr. Wanli Wu, Ecological Monitoring Specialist, sharing stories about Wapusk National Park at the Manitoba Children’s Museum

Monitoring Specialist, Parks Canada) contributed his expertise to an interactive touch table about scientific research in Wapusk NP which included opportunities for families to learn more about polar bears, ringed seals, caribou and sea ice mapping. Visitors had fun trying on a polar bear tracking collar, sinking their fingers Bringing Wapusk into plush caribou fur, watching investigate field cameras at a to Winnipeg remote research camp and observing an animated model of sea ice changes in Hudson Bay—to name just a few activities. Linda Sutterlin-Duguid Manitoba to eager urban audiences. Thousands of visitors were Public Outreach Education Officer The new Journey to Churchill virtually transported to Wapusk Manitoba Field Unit exhibit at the NP in February 2015 at Festival proved to be the perfect setting for du Voyageur—western Canada’s introducing people to Parks Canada’s largest winter festival. Through Helping people who live in Canada’s role in monitoring polar bears and GreenScreen® technology, cities get in touch with distant places protecting their denning areas in participants posed “on the tundra,” like Wapusk National Park (NP) is Wapusk NP. Throughout July and and had the opportunity to learn one of Parks Canada’s primary goals August, over 13,000 visitors learned about caribou and polar bears in the for public outreach education. about this fascinating park through process. The fun electronic photos In May 2014 Parks Canada launched fun activities such as the “Wapusk were e-mailed to festival-goers to be an enthusiastic outreach education Polar Bear Quiz”. (How many of these shared with friends and family. visitors have now added Churchill to team, which included several , museums and festivals can their vacation wish list?) summer students, in Winnipeg. act as urban gateways to national From the Assiniboine Park Zoo to In November 2014 Parks Canada treasures like Wapusk NP. These the Manitoba Children’s Museum to participated in the Science in attractions are proving to be Festival du Voyageur—Parks Canada Canada’s North event series at the wonderful places to reach Winnipeg staff brought stories of national Manitoba Children’s Museum in audiences in the thousands and share parks and national historic sites in Winnipeg. Dr. Wanli Wu (Ecological the stories of the park.

Did You Know?

• Wapusk National Park (NP) is home to • One of the lichens that is easy to spot in approximately 300 lichen species. Lichens the park is the brightly coloured Rusavskia are found in forested areas as well as on elegans, also called orange or starburst the tundra and on rocks, trees, antlers and lichen. It is also sometimes referred to as bird man-made structures within the park. perch lichen because it favours areas rich in nitrogen and phosphorus and is found in • Lichens are a fascinating combination of bird droppings. Look for this bright orange fungi and algae, a mutually dependent or lichen in spots where birds frequently perch. “symbiotic” relationship, and therefore cannot In Wapusk NP these eye-catching, elevated be classified into any of the ordinary plant perches stand out on the landscape and are categories. According to recent estimates, used, even today, as navigational aids. approximately 18,000 different kinds of Ancient hunting blind with orange “bird perch” lichens grow world-wide. lichen in Wapusk National Park

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A New Bear in

Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship Water Manitoba Conservation and Wapusk National Park? Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship Water Manitoba Conservation and

Wapusk National Park (NP) is known the collars will be used to confirm that for polar bears—in fact, Wapusk is the bears are indeed barren-ground Cree for “white bear.” But there is grizzlies, and more importantly, some evidence that a new bear may whether they are resident in the park have moved into the park: the barren and surrounding area, or merely ground grizzly. passing through. Top: Grizzly bear in Wapusk National Park The barren ground grizzly is a slightly Above: Grizzly bear on Hudson Bay shoreline, This information is important for Wapusk National Park smaller cousin of the grizzlies that park management purposes, and is inhabit the mountains of western significant as a permanent presence We know that there are grizzly bears Canada, and its traditional range spans of grizzlies could impact the park’s in Wapusk NP, but confirming where throughout the tundra of Nunavut and ecology. This means that grizzly they are travelling and whether or not the Northwest Territories. bears would likely be competing with they are denning will enable managers Since 1990, people have reported wolves and polar bears for food and to make informed decisions and to seeing barren ground grizzlies in resources. Also, the potential exists address impacts their presence may Wapusk NP, with annual sightings for conflict between grizzlies and have on the park and other wildlife that since 2008. Over the past seven years, denning polar bears. live there. the number of sightings has been increasing and it is believed that at least two separate individual bears are spending time in the park. In fact, Did You Know? Parks Canada’s trail cameras captured Every autumn, large male polar bears gather at photos of what appears to be a grizzly Cape Churchill in Wapusk National Park (NP) bear in the park in 2014. along the Hudson Bay coast, waiting for the sea Parks Canada and Manitoba ice to form. Polar bears depend on sea ice as a Conservation and Water Stewardship platform from which to hunt ringed seals, their main food source. are working together to find out more about these bears in the Churchill area. Polar Bears International and explore.org have Parks Canada has purchased two radio placed a webcam at Cape Churchill in Wapusk NP to provide polar bear viewing on a live feed to explore.org tracking collars and, with Manitoba Webcam image of polar bear at Cape Churchill thousands of viewers worldwide. Conservation, whose Natural Resource Officers have expertise in capturing Frontiers North Adventures, authorized commercial tour operator in the park, also works with Polar Bears bears, hopes to collar a grizzly bear. International and explore.org to offer two additional webcams from the Cape Churchill area. The collars transmit a GPS location that From September through December, during the peak polar bear migration period, approximately two million will allow staff to see where the bears “virtual” visitors experience the annual migration of the polar bears along the Hudson Bay Coast by clicking are travelling. The information from onto explore.org on their computers, tablets and smartphones.

Issue 8 – 2015 17 Wapusk News

Safety in Polar Bear Country

Brady Highway Visitor Safety and Fire Operations Coordinator Wapusk National Park and Manitoba National Historic Sites

Whether you are a long-time resident, a one-time visitor, or a newcomer to Churchill (like myself), this region is a wonderful place to witness the largest land-based carnivore—the polar bear—in its natural habitat. The chance to view this animal attracts people from all walks of life, people Jill Larkin, Resource Management Officer, bear monitoring for researcher Daniel Giesbrecht in Wapusk National Park whose diversity of experience and approach to polar bear safety is often and partners, and we have worked quite varied. collaboratively with the Churchill If you ask anyone who lives or Chamber of Commerce, the Town of works in the region, they will have a Churchill and Manitoba Conservation favourite bear story that they love to and Water Stewardship (MCWS) tell. These stories contribute to local to develop educational materials. folklore, and some of the lessons Parks Canada staff contributed to from these stories have made their the Safety in Polar Bear Country way into educational materials and pamphlet, safety presentations and the formal management plans that guide development of town signage and hotel Parks Canada’s daily operations. All tent cards with specific safety messages people who visit and work in Parks for visitors and transient staff. We also Canada sites in northern Manitoba worked with Polar Bear Alert who in have a responsibility for safety. This 2014 experienced an early and busy can sometimes be challenging as season. Their first bear call occurred people have different comfort levels on June 8 and they handled their first when dealing with bears, and each bear on July 2. Parks Canada and encounter is unique. MCWS tested the relocation of bears from their holding facility into Wapusk We walk a bit of a fine line in Manitoba National Park with the hope that those North, since on one hand, we must (human habituated) bears do not respect the space of the polar bear, and Polar bear in Wapusk National Park wander into other towns further up the do our best to ensure that they do not Hudson Bay coast. become habituated to humans. On the increase considerably if helicopter other hand, we know that visitors enjoy overflights and tundra vehicle sightings Parks Canada is proud of the seeing the animals on the ground and were added in. Each year, Parks contribution it makes to the conservation of polar bears. As a new may, in their enthusiasm, pressure bear Canada defines thresholds for dealing member of the community, I sincerely monitors and guides to facilitate that with bear encounters and implements experience. The number of polar bear appreciate the leadership Parks a standard set of guidelines to ensure sightings can add to the pressure—in Canada demonstrates in providing that no people, or bears, are harmed. 2014 Parks Canada recorded 196 safe experiences to visitors, while separate polar bear sightings while Parks Canada’s work in protecting maintaining the respect and space that on the ground. This number would the species extends to our neighbours bears need to survive.

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What’s Happening! Programs and Events – 2015

As a member of the archaeology team, you Canada Day Bay Dip – will be working side-by-side with Parks Hudson’s Bay Co. Depot at A chilly race to the finish! York Factory NHS Canada archaeologists to uncover the past and discover what life was like at the fort 250 years ago. You will be immersed in all aspects of archaeology field work, from excavation to working in a field lab identifying and cataloging artifacts. During your boat commute to the fort, it is not Canada Day Bay Dip uncommon to be escorted by pods of beluga Northern Iconic Experience: whales or catch sight of a polar bear resting A Northern Manitoba The summer kicks off with some chilling on Eskimo Point. In the evenings at the on the beach with the ever-popular Canada Adventure CNSC you will be invited to participate in Day Bay Dip! This fun (but frigid) team relay lectures on related topics and to interact with Five days of exploration await you in race challenge has participants taking the Wapusk National Park and York Factory plunge into the waters of Hudson Bay. Prizes a diverse group of scientists who study many and Prince of Wales Fort National Historic are awarded for the fastest team and best natural features of the region. The course Sites. Hiking on the open tundra of the costume. will run from July 30 to August 6, 2015, and can be booked through the CNSC at www. park, you will be swept away by the vastness churchillscience.com. Parks Canada will also of the landscape and wonder at the and wildlife that can be found here. For all be running public archaeology day programs its wildness, this landscape has a human on August 7 and 8. story as well. At York Factory and Prince of Wales Fort you will step back in time to the Examining the 18th C. sailors’ days of the historic when British signatures carved in the rocks at Sloop Cove traders and First Nations peoples conducted business on the shores of Hudson Bay. Hear All dressed up for Parks Day at Prince of Wales Fort NHS how their hardships, joys, triumphs and defeats shaped them and the country that Parks Day – July 18 would become Canada. This is the place where the natural and human worlds are Join Parks Canada staff for a full day of intertwined. fun experiences at Prince of Wales Fort National Historic Site (weather permitting) A well-earned rest for hikers in celebration of Canada’s national parks and in Wapusk National Park national historic sites. Boat transportation will be provided. Sloop Cove Hikes Take a hike! Join Parks Canada staff for half-day hikes from Sloop Cove to Prince of Wales Fort National Historic Site. The hike is a four kilometre trip that begins once you have been dropped off by boat at Sloop Hiking in Wapusk Cove and ends at Prince of Wales Fort where National Park you will be picked up once again by boat for If you have always wanted to spend a day the return trip to Churchill. Explore Sloop Hands on History participants hard at in Wapusk National Park, here’s your work at Prince of Wales Fort NHS Cove where the Hudson’s Bay Company chance! Parks Canada will be offering day dry-docked their ships and sailors carved trip hiking excursions into the park this Hands On History their names into the rocks above the cove. summer. Accompanied by Parks Canada Get an up-close look at the tundra and the staff you will fly into the park to explore the Public Archaeology at Prince of shoreline ecosystem of the Churchill River remote tundra, wetlands, and beach ridges, Wales Fort National Historic Site estuary. Learn about the nearly 4,000 years investigate the rich plant and animal life, and Returning for its second year! Parks of human history in the Churchill area by hear the story about the thousands of years Canada and the Churchill Northern Studies visiting some of the many archaeological sites. of human connection to this landscape. Centre (CNSC) are pleased to partner Contact SeaNorth Tours at 204-675-2195 or For more information about any of these to bring this unique public archaeology www.seanorthtours.com for times and to programs: 204-675-8863 or e-mail: experience to Prince of Wales Fort NHS. book your hike. [email protected]

Issue 8 – 2015 19 Wapusk News

Wapusk Management Board Update

The Wapusk Management Board was The board will soon be turning established in 1996 to consider matters its attention to the Wapusk NP relating to the planning, management management plan. This plan sets out and operation of Wapusk National Park the direction for the park for a ten (NP), and to make recommendations on year period. The formal planning these matters to Canada’s Environment process will begin in 2016 and Minister and Minister responsible for the board will be advising the Parks Canada. Since the board was Superintendent on its expectations for established, it has helped, with its advice the future of the park. to Parks Canada, to set the direction for The Wapusk Management Board one of the world’s most unique places. is taking this opportunity to thank The past year is no exception, as the Learn more about Wapusk National a member for his hard work and Park and see past issues of board has been very active over the past dedication to Wapusk NP and to few months. Wapusk News online at welcome a new colleague. John T. www.parkscanada.gc.ca/wapusk Each year, the Wapusk Management Williams has completed his three-year Board meets to discuss the status of appointment as the Government of Wapusk News is produced by Parks Canada and the Wapusk research applications for the park. Canada representative to the board, Management Board. This involves a review of the research during which time his knowledge and applications to ensure that they meet the experience helped shape the advice research priorities established for the of the board. His insights relating to park. For the 2014-15 season, five research wildlife conservation and management permits were issued by the Superintendent have been instrumental in helping to We want following the recommendations of the set park priorities. Thank you, John. board. The permit review is now The board is pleased to welcome Jan to hear complete and the management board Collins who has been appointed by the has submitted recommendations for four Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister from you! permits for the 2015-16 season. of the Environment and Minister for The board has also been very interested Parks Canada, as the new representative in the proposal by the Province of of the federal government on the Parks Canada and Manitoba to establish a provincial park Wapusk Management Board. Jan’s the Wapusk Management that would border Wapusk NP. experience with the Province of Board would appreciate any Manitoba as Tourism Development comments about this issue of Other topics that the board discussed Consultant responsible for the Wapusk News, or suggestions over the past year include: development of resource-based tourism for future issues. • trap lines within the park product across Manitoba provides him • contribution agreements for research with a thorough understanding of the Send your feedback to: • Aboriginal and local traditional tourism industry as it relates to natural knowledge environment. We look forward to Wapusk National Park • new visitor experience opportunities working with Jan on the future of P.O. Box 127 • polar bear management the park. Churchill, MB R0B 0E0 Telephone: 204-675-8863 The ten member Wapusk Management Board is made up of representatives of the Government of Canada; Province of Manitoba; Town of Churchill; Fox Lake Cree Nation; and York Factory First Nation. The work of the board reflects the You are also invited to bring your philosophy, expressed in the Wapusk Park Establishment Agreement, that people are Keepers of the Land. comments to the Parks Canada Visitor Centre in Churchill, Manitoba, or send us an e-mail at: [email protected]

Aussi disponible en français 20 Wapusk National Park