Nunavut says new muskox rules reflect science, Inuit knowledge

The Nunavut Government has changed some of its muskox regulations, including shifting the boundaries for management zones and changing the total allowable harvests for muskoxen in some parts of the territory.

Deputy Minister of Environment Gabriel Nirlungayuk says the government decided on the changes after consulting surveys and taking into account Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (traditional knowledge).

"I think it will be a lot better for those communities that want to do muskox harvests," said Nirlungayuk. "A lot of these recommendations came from them."

This is the first time that the government has changed muskox regulations since Nunavut separated from the Northwest Territories in 1999.

Nirlungayuk says that, since the 1960s, muskox populations have significantly rebounded because of heavy harvesting restrictions.

"Using the science and traditional knowledge, it now better reflects how the muskox have made a good comeback."

The 13 management zones incorporate communities in all three regions; eight of the zones have a yearly total allowable harvest ranging from 15 to 400 animals.

The boundary changes also incorporate buffer zones.

"Kugaaruk just as an example used to have to go over to Gjoa Haven area. Now within their area if they see muskox, they don't have to travel as far."

For details on specific changes, hunters should contact their local wildlife officer or hunters and trappers organization.