The purpose of the Tłı̨chǫ Aquatic Ecosystem Monitoring Program (TAEMP), is the implementation of an aquatic ecosystem monitoring program based on Tłı̨chǫ and scientific knowledge in order to determine whether fish health, water, and sediment quality are changing over time. By meaningfully involving community members in conducting contaminants-related research, including the collection of samples and observations using both Tłı̨chǫ and scientific knowledge, the TAEMP provides a means to help to address the question: “Are the fish safe to eat and is the water safe to drink?”

The TAEMP rotates sampling through each of the four Tłı̨chǫ communities once every four years. In 2015, the first round of comparative sampling began when the TAEMP returned to the community of Behchokǫ̀. In 2019, the second round of comparative sampling began. In 2021, the TAEMP was at the community of Gameti on Rae Lakes. Despite the limitations imposed by COVID, the program was a great success and all sample collections met the targeted requirements. Of interest was the varied habitats from which very large Whitefish were captured and longevity of some individuals (36 years).

TAEMP partners include: community members, Tłı̨chǫ Government (TG), the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) with the Indigenous Habitat Participation Program (IHPP). The IHPP is a funding program that gives Indigenous communities opportunities to participate in the conservation and protection of fish and fish habitat and the people of Gameti are grateful to have this funding source.

for more information please contact:
Michael Birlea, Manager: Lands Protection & Renewable Resources
Phone:867.392.6381 ext.1355 Email: [email protected]