The Ungava Peninsula has relied on caribou for thousands of years. Our cultures, our food systems and our identity are tied to these herds. Many residents have heard bits and pieces about the region-wide caribou strategy over the years, but not everyone has had the opportunity to review the full document. Given the continued concern about the George River and Leaf River herds, this is a good opportunity to revisit the issue.

In 2017, all Indigenous Nations across the Ungava Peninsula came together to create a unified, long-term plan for the stewardship of our shared caribou. The result was a landmark document titled “A Long Time Ago in the Future: Caribou and the People of Ungava.”

You can read the full study here.

This strategy was developed by the Ungava Peninsula Caribou Aboriginal Round Table (UPCART). It includes the Inuit of Nunavik and Nunatsiavut, the Innu Nation, the Nation Innue, the Cree of Eeyou Istchee, the NunatuKavut Community Council and the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach. The leaders of every Nation involved sign it. It is the first time in history that all Indigenous Peoples of the Ungava Peninsula coordinated at this scale for caribou stewardship.

What the Strategy Does

The strategy outlines a straightforward, long-term approach to protect the George River and Leaf River herds for over 100 years. It ties together Indigenous knowledge, Western science, and the lived experience of each Nation. It recognizes the highs and lows of caribou populations and creates a system that adjusts with those changes rather than reacting too late.

At its core, the plan ensures:

  • Indigenous food security and priority access
  • Zero wastage and respectful harvesting
  • Shared decision-making among all Nations
  • Full integration of Indigenous knowledge
  • Transparent reporting and ongoing research
  • Clear steps for every stage of a herd’s cycle, from abundance to scarcity

Why This Matters Today

Caribou numbers have seen drastic declines in the last few decades. The plan acknowledges the mistakes of past management, particularly during earlier declines when action was taken too late. The strategy replaces that pattern with a proactive, Indigenous-led system that adapts quickly and protects the long-term health of the herds.

For the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach, this is especially meaningful. Our history, survival and identity have been tied to caribou for 5500 years. Even today, with high food prices and a strong cultural connection to the land, caribou remain essential to the region. This strategy strengthens our role in stewarding the herds and working with neighbouring Nations who share the same relationship and responsibilities.

A Living Document

The strategy is designed to evolve as the herds change. It includes five major action plans that guide:

  • Indigenous sharing agreements
  • Research and monitoring
  • Habitat protection
  • Stewardship and education
  • Social and economic impacts

These components ensure that all Nations can respond responsibly, whether the herd is thriving or struggling.

Read the Full Study

If you have never seen the entire document or would like to refresh your memory, you can read it here.