BEARING NORTH: An exploration of climate change's impact on the Churchill region
A two-week excursion by the Winnipeg Free Press’ climate change reporter Sarah Lawrynuik explored the many ways that Churchill and northern Manitoba are already being affected by climate change.
A 16-part series appeared as two Saturday-feature spreads in the Winnipeg Free Press’ 49.8 long-read section in October 2020, these are some of the highlighted features from that coverage.
(All photos, research, interviews and writing was completed by Sarah Lawrynuik.)
Manitoba’s Microcosm
Churchill’s location on the edge of three distinct biomes draws scientists from around the world to research the devastating impacts of climate change.
Worry in the water
Warming extends whale-watching tourism season, but lost ice increases the exposure of the world’s largest beluga population to predator orcas and possible risks from additional shipping traffic.
‘The damage is done already’
Less-predictable seasons, weather conditions are already threatening the traditional ways of life for First Nations communities in northern Manitoba.
The domino effect
Climate change impacts the entirety of the food web. The Arctic fox offers a great example of the spillover effect from one animal to the next.
Anxiety on the tundra
Climate change is a clear and present danger to the already-shrinking polar bear population that drives tourism and much of the related economic activity in Churchill.
Fear Factor
Researchers racing to stay ahead of inevitable oil spill that will foul pristine northern waters as disappearing sea ice invites shipping, cruising traffic.
Painful past, uncertain future
Northern Manitoba Dene community re-established decades after brutal, forced relocation is inextricably linked to shrinking caribou population.
Sacred site, breathtaking sight
Awe-inspiring Inuit hunting camp dating back at least 1,000 years offers some optimism about climate change and environmental adaptation.
Teach your visitors well
Tourism operators, guides see climate impact but walk a fine line on the tundra between just providing entertainment and offering food for thought.
Season of change
Churchill has lurched from economic boom to bust over its turbulent history; cautious hope for the port’s future flashes inside the climate reality cloud of uncertainty.
Black bears and grizzlies and polar bears, oh my!
A changing climate is bringing different species closer together — very close in the case of the ‘grolar’. That’s right, grizzly-polar bear hybrids. Experts say more of them will be seen.