Episode 13: In conversation with Jason Akearok of the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board

In this episode of the Co Management Commons show I am in discussion with Jason Akearok, Executive Director of the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board, to discuss wildlife co-management in Nunavut. Jason has worked with the Board for 9 years and brings the experience of being an Inuk, and from his work with Environment and Climate Change Canada. A key topic was the Board's process for making decisions about the Baffin Island Caribou Herd, including imposing a moratorium and total allowable harvest. The Board held an in-person public hearing with delegates from each community to gather perspectives. Although it was difficult to restrict Inuit rights to harvest caribou, there was consensus that the herd size had declined. The Board established a 250 male-only harvest quota in 2014, which has since increased as more caribou are observed. Jason noted the excitement of young people harvesting their first caribou this past summer. The Board is now focused on a 10-year strategic plan to engage Inuit and meet its duties under the Nunavut Agreement. Jason also discussed his role in analyzing information and ensuring the Board makes well-informed decisions. He reflected on efforts to incorporate Inuit knowledge into decision-making through improved communication. Overall, the interview provided insights into wildlife co-management and key decisions about caribou in Nunavut. Chapters 00:00 - Introductions 03:30 - Explanation of the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board 06:30 - Pathway to joining the NWMB 10:30 - Interesting aspects of the career 12:20 - Discussion about the Total Allowable Harvest (TAH) process on Baffin Island Caribou 16:15 - Daughters interest in caribou harvesting 18:00 - Community concerns about the Baffin Island Caribou 20:22 - Adjustments to the TAH 22:20 - The role of the Executive Director 25:35 - Approach to ensuring Inuit Knowledge get to the co-management board 29:15 - Strategic planning process For more information on the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board please visit: http://www.nwmb.ca