When the weather is uggianaqtuq: Linking Inuit and scientific observations of recent environmental change in Nunavut, Canada

This dissertation documents Inuit observations and knowledge of Arctic environmental processes and changes, and examines how these observations intersect (and do not intersect) with scientific observations. Using a multi-method approach including semi-directed interviews, mapping exercises, participant observation and focus groups, the study engaged active Inuit hunters and elders in the Nunavut communities of Qamani'tuaq (Baker Lake) and Kangiktauugaapik (Clyde River) to understand how changes are observed in the climate and environment, what these changes are, and how Inuit interact with these changes in their daily lives.; The empirical evidence, including the maps and words of Inuit who participated in the project, clearly shows that Inuit have observed changes in the climate and environment, particularly in the last decade. These changes include thinning sea ice, lower river and lake levels, changing snow conditions, changing animal populations, and increasingly variable and unpredictable weather.; A comparison of Inuit observations to scientific evidence from published studies and weather station data shows that the two lines of evidence are complementary in many cases, augmenting each other where they intersect. For example, both Inuit and scientists have observed changes in sea ice. While scientists are able to calculate large scale and regional scale changes in sea ice extent and relate these to climate change, Inuit are able to provide local scale observations of sea ice change such as unusual crack formations and thinning, as well as local scale climate and ice processes that contribute to the new conditions. Further, Inuit observations provide hypotheses previously unknown to scientists about recent changes in the Arctic climate and environment, such as increased variability in day-to-day weather, which was confirmed through a preliminary analysis of weather station data.; This dissertation seeks to not only understand what Inuit know about recent climate and environmental changes in the Arctic and how this knowledge links with science, but also seeks to demonstrate the value and potential for greater understanding when indigenous knowledge is included in research. This dissertation should be of interest to scientists, students and decision-makers who are interested in issues of Arctic environmental change, indigenous knowledge, and participatory research.*; *This dissertation is a compound document (contains both a paper copy and a CD as part of the dissertation). The CD requires the following system requirements: Microsoft Office; Adobe Acrobat; Internet browser.