Cerren Richards

Why are you involved on this project?

I’m excited to join the SNF project as a part of my PhD to learn more about Indigenous culture to respectfully co-produce knowledge about the marine ecosystem in Nunatsiavut. The research aims to quantify how seasonal environmental conditions and polynya ephemerality influences culturally important seabird abundance and distributions using photographic tools, such as drones and time-lapse cameras.

How does your work relate to Nunatsiavut?

This project will contribute to an increased understanding of culturally important species through visualizing their abundance, distribution, and relationship with fragile sea ice. This research will further help uncover the collective consequence of environmental change at polynyas for seabirds and Inuit, for example, through exposing the species with the greatest limitations to environmental change. In addition, we will provide insights into the seasonal presence of potentially problematic species, such as the double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), whose northern shifting range may lead to serious ecosystem modifications. Through sharing the findings with the Nunatsiavut Government, these findings can further be useful for effective coastal resource management, and protected area planning. Finally, the images and videos produced can be used as tools for storytelling and advocacy of Indigenous welfare, livelihood, and food security.

What is your favourite outdoor activity?

Hiking

What is your favourite place in the world?

Flekke in Norway because at 16 years old I won a life-changing scholarship to attend UWC Red Cross Nordic for two years, a culturally diverse and unique educational experience. During my time in Norway, I really embraced the nordic concept of “friluftsliv” (free air life) - the value of spending time in remote locations for spiritual and physical wellbeing. I spent a lot of time connecting with the breathtaking landscape and exploring the mountains and fjords with my now husband.