Meet Kaitlyn, Cultural Resource Program Policy Officer

Favourite part of the park?

My favourite part about the national parks and sites in the western Arctic region is that all are uniquely different. This, and the history behind each park and site is really cool to experience and learn about. One of my all-time favourite sites is Tuktut Nogait National Park. In July 2021 myself and other Parks staff paddled the Hornaday River in Tuktut Nogait for nine days. The park’s terrain ranges from rolling hills, to canyons and hoodoo-like features, which was incredible to see.

Best project/study you’ve gotten to work on?

This is a difficult question to answer because there have been many projects that I have really enjoyed. One project that really stands out was the Cloud Bay cultural camp hosted by the Dene community, Délı̨nę. I was able to reconnect with my roots, and help youth participants in various activities such as harvesting fish and setting nets, gathering traditional medicines, sewing, beading, and walking the portage trail. The best part about that project was learning from the Elders about Sahtúgot‘ı̨nę traditions and culture.

Favourite part of your job?

My favourite part of my job is being able to work outdoors. I also greatly enjoy learning about cultural sites and the stories tied to them from Indigenous communities, as well as through the monitoring work Parks does, which enables us to have a deeper understanding of the Indigenous peoples who inhabited these sites. The best part about working in cultural resource management is collaborating and building relationships with communities and individuals in the western Arctic.

What do you love most about science?

I love that there is always something new to research and learn. Whether it’s learning from the land or in the lab, science can help us understand the questions we have, and always offers more to learn and explore.