Research Document - 2014/042

Ecologically and biologically significant areas (EBSA) in northern Foxe Basin: identification and delineation

By J.E. Paulic, H. Cleator and K.A. Martin

Abstract

A regional science peer review meeting was held in June 2009 with science experts from Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), Natural Resources Canada, Environment Canada, Parks Canada Agency and the Government of Nunavut to identify ecologically and biologically significant areas (EBSAs) in the Northern Foxe Basin study area. During the meeting, participants evaluated available scientific information on oceanographic processes, primary and secondary production, benthic invertebrates, marine plants, anadromous and marine fishes, and marine mammals, and identified gaps in knowledge. Marine birds and Polar Bears were also considered, although the primary focus was aquatic marine ecosystems for which DFO has responsibility. The meeting participants also considered available published traditional/local knowledge. Three EBSAs were identified and delineated on the basis of this information. Combined they represent almost 47% coverage (25,550 km² of 54,810 km²) within the study area. The Rowley Island EBSA has high productivity at the sea ice edge and important habitat for Walruses and Bowhead Whales. The Igloolik Island EBSA supports a number of species including Arctic Char, Bowhead Whale, Walrus and Polar Bear during critical periods of their life history. Both EBSAs contain recurring polynyas that serve as important nursery and feeding areas and as a migratory corridor for several species of marine mammals. The Fury and Hecla Strait EBSA has currents that create conditions for biologically and ecologically important habitat in the Rowley Island and Igloolik Island EBSAs. It also has Polar Bear denning sites along the north coast and serves as a migratory corridor for several marine mammal species between northern Foxe Basin and the Gulf of Boothia. The three EBSAs also contain important feeding and/or staging areas for marine birds. As new information comes available and/or effects of human activities like climate change or resource development occur, the boundaries of the three EBSAs and the potential for additional EBSAs in the study area should be re-evaluated.

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