Climate change will have tremendous environmental and socio-economic consequences in the Arctic. Shrinking coastal sea ice will open the way for increased shipping and access to natural resources, raising new challenges for sovereignty and security. Already, reduced coastal sea ice is hindering traditional hunting by Inuit, shrinking the habitat of Arctic fauna and increasing the exposure of coastal communities to storms.

ArcticNet remains focussed on mitigating the harm and maximizing the positive outcomes of climate change and modernization in the Canadian Arctic through knowledge exchange, monitoring, modelling and capacity-building.

ArcticNet is committed to provide improved and stable sea and land access to the Canadian Arctic. In 2006, over 90 researchers and partners participated in the third expedition of the CCGS Amundsen. Its deep water capabilities paired with the shallow water facilities of the CSL Heron, allowed ArcticNet and Parks Canada to create a near-complete bathymetric map of the uncharted waters of Oliver Sound in Sirmilik National Park, Nunavut and Torngat Mountains National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador.

Specifically addressing the ecological integrity monitoring program of Parks Canada, this mapping will help to develop indicators and targets of ecological integrity and to design protocols for long-term monitoring of fjord-based marine ecosystems.

On land, ArcticNet has access to the Qaujisarvik Network, eight research stations with laboratory and field equipment that support research teams and consolidate partnerships with regional authorities and communities. The Network stretches 3,500 km from Radisson, Quebec, to Ward Hunt Island, Nunavut.

ArcticNet and its partners support research that addresses the critical issues northerners face. The Network's Northern Partnership Initiatives engage northern communities and organizations in collaborative research efforts. One project, co-led with the Kativik Regional Government, provides tools to help Nunavik communities cope with safety issues and changes in the way they traditionally use trails A partnership with the Nunavik Research Centre addresses practical issues of Arctic char management for safe, local exploitation. Meanwhile, ArcticNet and the Nunatsiavut Government are addressing the ecological integrity of the marine environment of northern Labrador. These three projects have been highly successful at forging new partnerships while pursuing high-level research.

Several programs offer a range of research and training opportunities, providing the next generation of Arctic scientists and decision makers with a trans-sectoral and interactive learning environment. In 2006-07, the ArcticNet Training Fund allowed 10 students to participate in national and international training. The Schools on Board program continues to instill an early interest in the Arctic. Ten high school students and teachers from across Canada participated in part of the CCGS Amundsen's 2006 ArcticNet expedition. Through hands-on learning and observation, they gained more awareness of climate change and were introduced to the challenges and opportunities of a career in Arctic science.

The ArcticNet Student Association (ASA) broadens the ArcticNet student experience by promoting learning, research and networking opportunities for students. In 2006-07, it developed several tools for communicating with the large ArcticNet student body, including a newsletter and regional workshops. Their efforts culminated in the second annual Student Day, which saw 200 students gather under the banner of Tools for Effective Communication in Arctic Research.

Recognizing that Canada cannot get an accurate sense of circumpolar changes by focussing only on its Arctic region, ArcticNet is building a network of research networks from Denmark, the United States, Norway, France and Russia. The network will give ArcticNet researchers and students access to new data and expertise to complement their research. By increasing our understanding, Canada can better respond to major Arctic issues; including the Inuit health, intercontinental shipping and oil and gas development.

ArcticNet (2003 - 2011)
Focus:	To translate our growing understanding of the changing Arctic into impact assessments, national policies and adaptation strategies.
Funding:	$45.87 million for entire funding period
Strength:	36 researchers and 240 Highly Qualified Personnel
Partnership Power:	191 industry, public service and academic partners
Scientific Director:	Dr. Louis Fortier
Web site:	www.arcticnet.ulaval.ca