The F uture of Reindeer Herding

The question of whether to continue the reindeer herding industry in the ISR needs to be answered, said government and IRC. Right now, the IRC is “holding the fort” financially and ITI is providing business support. Lloyd Binder, current owner of the reindeer herd, could not be reached for comment, but his father, Otto said an issue they are dealing with is lack of labour resources. “I’ve been looking for help, but not too many people want to do herding, because the oil companies are paying more”, he said.

Nellie Cournoyea, CEO of IRC said, “We’ve provided assistance to the project because there were Inuvialuit owning the herd in the past. There are various opinions regarding the reindeer and we have to come to a consensus. We are basically holding the fort, but we need to get a feeling from the community. What it comes down to is, you need money to pay the herders and to ship out antlers; and you need to commit to the work and time involved, whether in management or otherwise.”

“GNWT’s continued involvement with the herds depends on the amount of public interest in the project ”, said Roger Israel, ITI superintendent. Right now, ITI is assisting with the resourcing of financial services, contribution funds, permits for different jurisdictions and the sourcing of abattoirs and meat buyers. “Canada Agriculture has strict laws requiring certified abattoires and meat inspection, and that brings the cost up.”

Roger has been setting up public meetings and meetings with Hunters and Trappers committee to determine and solicit interest. So far, some individuals have expressed interest but there is no definite commitment.

He said there are some advantages in continuing with the herd. “With the decline in numbers of caribou, there may come a time when the community will want an alternate meat supply. “GNWT is trying to leave this door open and not burn the bridge by abandoning the herd.”

“The value of reindeer meat has increased. It is sold for $3.80/lb down south, and Kunnek Resources (Llyod Binder’s company) has reported that 2000 of the animals are in good health and that the number of females have increased by 80%.” There has not been any antler harvest for the last 2 years. Kunnek predicts the herd is sustainable and can grow to 3000 reindeer within three to five years.

Ever since the 1930s, when the government first brought the reindeer industry into Canada, the industry has changed hands a few times and gone through a fair share of successes and challenges. Many herders, however, have good memories of their experience. “It’s a nice feeling, being with animals,” said Otto. Adam and Annie Emaghok too recall it being “hard, yes, but it was a good time,” although their homes were just tents even during winter, life was simple and close to nature.

The Inuvik Petroleum Show took place on the 14th and 15th of June at the Midnight Sun Recreation Centre in Inuvik. It was definitely a major event; Lear jets were seen landing at the Inuvik airport and the town’s hotels were all a bustle. Banners and flags flew, welcoming visitors to town. Conferences were held during which representatives of the Inuvialuit and Gwich’in; as well as of the oil industry spoke about the Mackenzie Gas Project. Topics covered included sustainable development, opportunities for aboriginal governments, companies and businesses, and successes so far of the ASEP (Aboriginal Skills to Employment Partnerships program). Social and economic impacts as well as the lessons learnt from oil and gas development in Northern Alaska was also discussed.

At the trade exhibition, there were many familiar faces from the IRC. “It’s a meet and greet session for industry and all the companies that want to work with them,” said Carol Arey, chair of the Aklavik Community Corporation.