Miceli, Emily Jane

The ᐃᓕᓕᐗᔅᑭᔾ | Ililiwaskiy (Moose Cree First Nation Territory) in Ontario's James Bay region has long faced industrial impacts on its ecosystems. Community concerns about mercury in culturally important fish prompted an interdisciplinary study bringing together chemical analysis and community knowledge. Researchers partnered with Moose Cree members through workshops, training, and interviews, while sampling over 180 fish across six sites. Walleye showed the highest mercury levels, often exceeding Health Canada's 0.5 ppm guideline for large fish and the 0.2 ppm guideline for subsistence consumers, women, and children. Community input highlighted fish as both a cultural cornerstone and food source, while noting how land-based changes have impacted fishing practices. Findings reveal elevated mercury in traditional foods and broader impacts on land-based practices and food security. The project underscores the importance of rethinking risk assessments, mitigating risks from resource extraction, water management, and supporting Moose Cree leadership in stewardship.

Author Keywords: Consumption, Cumulative effects, Fish, Indigenous knowledge, Mercury, Risk