Fostering geoscience research in Nunavut

CanNor investment supports research assisting in mineral exploration and climate change adaptation

CanNor is investing over $7.4 million from 2016-2018 in geoscience research across Canada’s three territories.

In Nunavut, CanNor will invest $2,672,335 towards geoscience projects focusing on mapping, permafrost infrastructure and seabed analysis, along with the development and promotion of geosciences in Nunavut.

CanNor: $2,672,335
Natural Resources Canada: $1,802,000
Government of Nunavut: $1,306,000
Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada: $860,000
ArcticNet: $180,000
Universities: $50,000
Total Funding (Nunavut): $6,870,335

Funding will support a series of projects in Nunavut, including:

1. Geological Research for Responsible Natural Resource Development
   • Mapping of the Tehery Lake-Wager Bay area.
   • Extensive surveying of North Baffin Island, including airborne magnetic surveys.
   • Examining the mineral potential around Kathleen Lake area of the Kitikmeot region.
   • Carving stone assessment on South Baffin Island and Sanikiluaq.
   • Mapping and study of the Hope Bay geological belt in the Kitikmeot Region.
2. Mapping Climate Change and Permafrost
   • Enhancing permafrost studies and surficial geological mapping examining ice-flow indicators, surficial materials, and remote sensing work.
   • Research using geochemistry and heavy minerals on Boothia Peninsula and Somerset Island, assessing climate change impacts, and efforts along coastal areas.
   • Analysing permafrost effects for infrastructure along Western Hudson Bay. This will assist the natural resources sector and foster economic development for the region.
   • Funding for the Nunavut Permafrost Databank and the Climate Change Secretariat.
3. Infrastructure Mapping
   • Performing bathymetric and ecological seabed mapping of Frobisher Bay to support exploration, natural hazard assessment, and infrastructure development.
4. Capacity building and public education
   • Promoting and encouraging geosciences through community outreach activities, including internships.