The Back River - A Part of Our Heritage

Fr. Buliard's cabin, Back River, Nunavut (courtesy Missinfemmies)

It's been said that the rivers of Canada represent the nation's first highways, and defined our country's history.

That's recognized in the Canadian Heritage Rivers System (CHRS), which recognizes Canadian Rivers of outstanding natural, heritage and recreational significance. In Nunavut there are three Designated Canadian Heritage Rivers (the Thelon, Kazan and Soper Rivers) and one nominated river, the Coppermine River.

Designation as a Canadian Heritage River requires a preliminary background study of the potential river identifying the characteristics that make it unique.

Aarluk is currently finalizing a background study, for the potential nomination of Nunavut’s Back River to the CHRS. The study collected data on the natural, cultural and recreational values located within the Back River watershed. In addition, Gjoa Haven and Baker Lake stakeholder consultations highlighted the significant community connections to areas along the river, areas used by the communities’ ancestors. A final report will submitted to the Government of Nunavut’s Parks and Special Places Division, who currently administer this heritage program and will decide whether to proceed with attempting to nominate Back River to the CHRS.

h/t Chris Grosset, Geoff Rigby