Research in the Sahtú Region

Research Questions, Priorities and Coordination

Research on wildlife, habitat and communities in the Sahtú Region is guided by questions and priorities that are developed through ongoing dialogue of communities, co-management boards, government, industry, and academia. The Sahtú Environmental Research and Monitoring Forum [HYPERLINK] meets regularly to discuss research priorities and provide advice to researchers and research agencies. The Forum stresses importance of understanding the research context in the Sahtú Region, and building strong research relationships. Given the remoteness of the region, the high cost of conducting research, and the requirements for community engagement throughout the research cycle, researchers should benefit from the experiences of others – and initiatives should be well coordinated.

Licensing and Community Engagement

In accordance with the NWT Scientists Act, researchers need at least one of the following three research licenses to conduct research in the Northwest Territories: a Wildlife Research Permit, Archaeologists Permit and/or Scientific Research License. The Aurora Research Institute is responsible for administering the Scientists Act, so is a key contact for researchers seeking a license.

Researchers are advised to submit licensing applications at least three months prior to the planned start date of fieldwork. Communities in the Sahtú Region – and especially Ɂehdzo Got’ı̨nę – have a strong interest in research. Early community engagement can allow researchers to learn about the research context, including community knowledge, questions, and interest in participating in research activities. Wherever possible, license applications should demonstrate that community engagement has taken place and community inputs have been accommodated.

The Aurora Research Institute provides some recommendations for effective communication practices in the NWT . The Ɂehdzo Got’ı̨nę Gotsę́ Nákedı has considerable experience in research and community engagement and can provide suggestions and assistance. It may be helpful to discuss proposed research with the Sahtú Environmental Research and Monitoring Forum at one of their regular meetings.

Wildlife Research Permit

A valid Wildlife Research Permit is required to study wildlife or wildlife habitat in the Northwest Territories (NWT). It is an offence under the Wildlife Act to conduct a survey or census of wildlife or wildlife behaviour, administer drugs, collect or purchase specimens or carry out any scientific research relating to wildlife without a permit. Recommendations from the Ɂehdzo Got’ı̨nę Gotsę́ Nákedı and local Ɂehdzo Got’ı̨nę should be included with the application. Permits are issued by NWT Environment and Natural Resources.

Wildlife Research Permit Application Form

Wildlife Research Permit Recommendation Form

Archaeology License

Archaeological research is governed by the Archaeological Sites Act. Research is regulated by NWT Education, Culture and Employment’s Archaeology Program, and requires a Class 1 or Class 2 Permit. Information about the Archaeology Research Permit System is here.

Scientific Research License

Research that does not fall under Wildlife or Archaeology legislation requires a Scientific Research Licence. If research involves more than one discipline, both a permit and a Scientific Research License. Information on the research project is shared with other scientists and northern residents. Summaries of the research conducted each year are distributed to media, community organizations and other researchers. In addition, research information is added to existing and developing scientific databases. An ethical protocol must be submitted for review if the research involves people. University researchers can submit ethical protocols that have been approved through their institutions. 

Before an Aurora Research Institute Scientific Research Licence is issued, the researcher must consult with, and gain support from the appropriate governing bodies. For research into social, cultural or economic aspects, or the testing of people contact the Métis Local and/or Band Council. Research involving land, water or wildlife requires engagement with the Ɂehdzo Got’ı̨nę Gotsę́ Nákedı and local Ɂehdzo Got’ı̨nę. Any research within the municipal limits is referred to Municipal Council(s). 

Aurora Research Institute Community Comment Form.

Research Guidelines

Research guidelines can allow researchers to benefit from the experiences of many others in conducting research in the North over the years.

The NWT Cumulative Impact Monitoring Program and Aurora Research Institute have developed a guide for researchers in the NWT: “The recommendations contained in the document were collected from workshops and interviews held with dozens of monitoring and research experts - from government, regulatory agencies, communities, and academia - who work in the NWT. It is strongly recommended that researchers review this document.

“This document can be used at any stage in the research process, but is most effective if researchers use it to plan their projects from the outset. Implementation of these steps during the project design phase will lead to more effective use of time, resources and increased interest from the community.”

The Ɂehdzo Got’ı̨nę Gotsę́ Nákedı is in the process of developing a Monitoring Framework document and traditional knowledge research guidelines. Interim documents may be available upon request.