Fostering Indigenous Small-scale fisheries for Health, Economy and food Security in Cree communities of northern Quebec (FISHES)

Northern fisheries are facing major changes and reducing the negative impacts is crucial for communities tied to the fisheries for their food security and culture. The identification of regions important for subsistence, commercial and recreational harvesting and whether they comprise genetically distinct groups of populations is a key requirement for adaptive co?management of harvest. Our team is comprised of researchers and Indigenous collaborators that combine the expertise for implementing knowledge at the interface between genomics and fisheries management. In this component of a recently funded Genome Canada LSARP, we will define genetically distinct populations in three of the most important species for the Cree (in terms of subsistence and tourism) (Brook Trout, Walleye, Lake Trout), quantify the contributions to mixed?stock harvests in two species (Brook Trout, Walleye), and assess the genomic impact of overharvesting in Walleye in southern Mistassini Lake. Through partnered research with the Cree, we will co?produce evidence to foster sustainable fisheries, food security, and social well?being. Our research will also support the development of sustainable fisheries in Cree territories and environmental protection for key fish species of Cree fisheries.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dylan Fraser

Student:

Hyung-Bae Jeon

Partner:

Niskamoon Corporation

Discipline:

Biology

Sector:

University:

Concordia University

Program: