Churchill marine observatory opens for Arctic climate research

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The University of Manitoba (UM) Centre for Earth Observation Science opened what it called the “globally unique” Churchill Marine Observatory (CMO) which will be dedicated to Arctic climate and environmental research.

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Located next to North America’s only Arctic deep-water port, the CMO is a pioneering research hub focused on oil spill detection, Arctic marine transportation, and community adaptation to climate change.

“UM has long been a global leader in Arctic research with a specific focus on climate change and its effects,” said Dr. Feiyue Wang, associate dean, Research and Innovation at the Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources in a press release on Thursday. “At the CMO our research is intensifying around scientific, technological and socio-environmental issues as the Arctic opens, for better or worse, as never before.”

The grand opening was attended by Northern Manitoba and Kivalliq region leaders, government officials including  Minister of Advanced Education and Training Renée Cable, Churchill Mayor Mike Spence and UM representatives.

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Dr. Michael Benarroch, UM president and vice-chancellor said the project

“We have been asking how we can ensure our work brings truly positive benefits to northern communities through responsible economic developments and environmental protections. Now, the Churchill Marine Observatory will provide answers to these and many other questions.”

Dr. Mario Pinto, UM vice-president (research & international), emphasized the facility’s alignment with Indigenous perspectives.

“Our work at CMO is informed, and inspired by the Indigenous worldview, aligning with UM strategies for social and economic reconciliation and research by with and for Indigenous peoples,” said Pinto.

The CMO’s infrastructure includes:
1. The Ocean-Sea Ice Mesocosm (OSIM) for controlled oil spill experiments.
2. The Environmental Observing system with monitoring moorings in Hudson Bay.
3. The Research Vessel William Kennedy, equipped for Arctic science expeditions.

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The facility was funded through a $45 million investment from the Canada Foundation for Innovation, the Provinces of Manitoba and Alberta, and other partners.

Minister for PrairiesCan Dan Vandal, congratulated UM on opening this facility, noting its potential to provide new insights into extreme weather and climate change. Cable highlighted its contribution to climate change mitigation and its role in advancing Manitoba’s position in Arctic research.

The CMO’s development was significantly influenced by the late Dr. David Barber, whose vision and efforts are honoured with a permanent plaque at the observatory.

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