The Askîy Youth Monitor Submission Call-Out is offering the opportunity for four new Askîy Youth Guardians aged 18-29 to learn sustainable harvesting practices and scientific methods for monitoring fish health at Alberta lakes February 16-22, 2025. Accommodations and meal expenses will be covered.
Métis youth aged 18-29 are invited to apply. To apply, tell us about yourself with a short essay, a video, or any other form of expression, and let us know why you want to be part of the Askîy Youth Guardians ice-fishing team.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE
Apply here by December 15, 2024 for the chance to be apart of this amazing experience.
You can find the full contest guide here
ABOUT THE ASKÎY YOUTH MONITOR SUBMISSION
In March 2021, we launched our Fish Health Monitoring Project, working with experienced harvesters to sample fish from select lakes across Alberta. Using both traditional gillnets and rod and reel techniques, harvested fish were measured and examined for fish health. All lethally-sampled fish were sent home with harvesters to later fillet, eat, and report back on internal fish health and palatability (e.g., taste, texture, smell). In 2022, we returned to many of the same lakes to sample again and collect fish for toxicology testing.
In mid-February 2023 we continued this work but also invited Métis youth to participate and learn both traditional ice-fishing methods and fish health assessment techniques from our harvesters, as well as scientific monitoring techniques from MNA staff. Youth participants formed the Youth Ice Fishing Team and learned and worked together throughout the week to complete fish monitoring activities.
ABOUT THE ASKÎY COMMUNITY-BASED MONITORING PROGRAM
The Environment and Climate Change department conducts community-based monitoring programs through an initiative called Askîy (Cree for “Earth” or “land”) to investigate and address Citizen environmental concerns. We have developed programs to monitor plants, fish, wildlife, and biodiversity using methods which braid western science with traditional knowledge. Monitoring programs are designed to engage with Citizens, facilitate knowledge sharing within the community, provide opportunities for community involvement in monitoring, and keep Citizens updated on project activities and outcomes.