Avataq Cultural Institute’s archaeology department works on matters concerning the preservation of Nunavik’s archaeological heritage for the benefit of the region’s communities. Almost annually, we address archaeological preservation concerns linked to modernization and development work in northern villages, as well as at sites such as mines and hydroelectric installations. We have adopted a dynamic approach that allows for heritage preservation while at the same time encouraging Nunavik’s modernization.
The inhabitants of Nunavik are aware of the value of their archaeological heritage, and thus concerned by any alteration of their territory. They are equally concerned with the recording and collection of artifacts found at archaeological sites within Nunavik. The Avataq Cultural Institute is ideally suited to carry out all necessary work in this regard, and is also capable of establishing the proper lines of communication between local populations and environmental or archaeological organizations and companies. Our position allows us to ensure the proper evaluation and preservation of Nunavik’s heritage in a manner consistent with the local communities’ desires for the preservation of their cultural heritage.
In 1985, Avataq was commissioned by the Elders of Nunavik to carry out or supervise all archaeological work done in the region. To comply with this important mandate, and to ensure effective communication with northern communities, all businesses, whether active in the environmental field or any other, must contact Avataq several months before beginning any work with an archaeological component.
Following are our recommendations:
A 2008 archaeological inventory carried out on the property of the Raglan Xstrata-Nickel mine, located on Hudson Strait.
Aerial view of the Raglan Xstrata-Nickel mining site
Archaeological tent structure discovered on the Raglan Xstrata-Nickel mining site
In 2005, a partial salvage excavation at site IcGm-77 in Inukjuak ensured that the site would not be damaged by heavy machinery being used in the area. The project also allowed for the collection of numerous surface-level artifacts, often retrieved by local children.
Note-taking during the excavation of site IcGm-77, facing east
General overview and surface-level collection activity at site IcGm-77, facing west
In September and October 2004, salvage excavations were carried out in Inukjuak, at archaeological sites IcGm-43 and IcGm-a. This work was commissioned by the Makivik Corporation as part of preparations for the development of maritime infrastructure.
Systematic surveys in the zone that would be affected by subsequent infrastructure construction, site IcGm-43
Excavation of structure 10, site IcGm-43, facing northwest
Carried out in September 2002, this archaeological inventory sought out sites within and alongside the zones affected by Hydro-Québec’s geotechnical work along the Nastapoka River.
Joe and William in front of the Patirtuup Katattukallanga waterfall during inspection of zone 1
Peter near a collapsed inukshuk, facing east
Two consecutive seasons (1990 and 1991) were allotted to archaeological salvage excavations at the Dorset-era site GhGk-63, located in the municipality of Kuujjuaraapik. The project was organized at the municipality’s request in order to salvage archaeological data that was threatened by the site’s planned use as a training area for heavy-vehicle operators.
Excavation of tent structures 6 and 7, 1991, facing east
View of excavated tent structure 9, 1991, facing southwest
