Students on Ice Day 5&6: Ice-Blocked

On a year where sea ice coverage is on track to be the lowest in recorded history it is rather ironic that the quantity of sea ice here in the bay at Iqaluit is at a historical high. Unfortunately this has meant that though we can see our vessel off in the distance, it is impossible to reach due to the ice pack.

We had hoped the winds would change overnight and we would be able to get out today, however Mother Nature had other plans for us, and we are bunking down for yet another night here at the Arctic College. While this is disappointing, the amazing thing about this whole experience is seeing how the people and the community are rallying around us to ensure that everything that can be done to get us to our vessel is done. All options, even the seemingly impossible ones, are being evaluated and in the meantime the local people have been incredibly generous with their time, their supplies and their knowledge.

Instead of letting time pass idly by as we await our departure, our days have been filled with interesting workshops, hikes and events. Yesterday we had an amazing hike and barbeque in Sylvia Grinnell Park, an event where we were awed by the presence and kind words of wisdom from local elders as well as Nunavut Premier Eva Aariak. We have seen one of the world’s smallest tree’s (the 1 cm snow bed willow), learned how to throat sing, and saw first-hand the price inequality that people living in the North face in their access to healthy food and necessary supplies.

The students have been so positive, and though disappointed that we haven’t left yet, are staying strong as we wait for the ice to depart.  The plan is that we will pack up (for the third time) tomorrow and board the ship at high-tide, though this of course is hinging on mother nature and the wind. This afternoon as one of the tour staff was standing outside, the flag that was flying stopped for a moment, and then started fluttering in the opposite direction. I think the winds have changed and tomorrow will be the day. Wish us luck (and pray for some North Westerly winds).
For more great stories check out the Students on Ice webpage with Daily Student Journal Updates, and Daily Video Updates