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| This study evaluates the introduction of quotas on
narwhal hunting in East Greenland with respect to effects on
Inuit culture and based on trends in narwhal killed per
hunter and assessment of migration patterns. Cultural
aspects were assessed through group discussions and comparison
between East and Northwest Greenland. Trends in
narwhal killed/hunter were modeled from catch statistics
using information on number of hunters and climate and
ice cover data for the period 1993–2004. Results indicate
negative impacts of quotas on Inuit culture; did not detect
negative trends in narwhal killed/hunter; and suggest southwest-
bound migration, implying potential immigration from
non-hunted populations that was not considered in quota
setting. The implementation of quotas without local consultations
and legal basis in the relevant executive order is
therefore in our opinion inappropriate. Conservation and
sustainable use of narwhal stocks may be more likely to
succeed if local communities are involved through comanagement
agreements. | |
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