Caribou Concern In The Big Land

People from all across Labrador are worried about the future of caribou in the Big Land.

For many years, the caribou was one of the main food staples for the aboriginal groups in Labrador.

But the past several years have seen rapid declines of caribou in Labrador, leading to a hunting ban on the once-plentiful George River Herd in 2013.

The most recent survey numbers released by the province are very concerning.

According to those numbers, the George River herd, once 800,000 strong at its peak, is down to 14,200.

The woodland herds are also struggling. Most notably, a sub population of the Red Wine herd is down to 20 animals.

For the past number of years, Labradorians have been debating the numbers, and the cause, of the caribou’s decline.

Nunatsiavut Government President Sarah Leo told The Labradorian that the Inuit of Labrador have different opinions about what’s causing the decline to caribou herds like the George River herd.

“Everyone has their own opinion on what’s happening to the herd. People think there’s a lot more predation, we’re seeing a lot more black bears …” said Leo.

“Some people say it’s hunting; every time you talk to somebody, it’s something different …”

Leo pointed out that technology is also a threat to caribou. Now, more than ever before, it’s easier for hunters to locate the caribou.

“You look at nowadays where you have GPS and different technology. You have faster machines that go further, the population (of people) is higher; more people are harvesting.”

The caribou-hunting ban has also taken its toll on the Inuit of Labrador.

According to Leo, it has caused much food security issues along the north coast.

“When I grew up, we had two deep freezers in the house; one was specifically for caribou and the one was for other stuff,” said Leo.

“It’s really taken a toll on (Labrador Inuit), not only the fact of the food security issue, but the traditional side where people were used to being able to go off and harvest their caribou and provide for the family.”

Leo said despite the want and need for caribou, the people of Nunatsiavut have been respectful of the hunting ban.

“In the Nain area, there’s been a population of a few hundred, maybe more, hanging around … I’m very proud of how our beneficiaries have done in regard to restraint,” said Leo.

“Our beneficiaries understand the need for conservation. They understand we need to see the herd populate into a healthy herd again so that we can harvest for future generations.”

This story courtesy of Derek Montague of the Labradorian.