NUNAVUT - The Department of Environment will announce the winner of a naming contest for its new research vessel by early September.

Nunavummiut under the age of 21 were asked to submit entries for the name of the department's 64-foot boat that will be used to help scientists and community members to gain a better understanding of Nunavut's fisheries and marine ecosystems.

There were 21 entries submitted by the July 16 deadline.

The department will be working with its staff in the fisheries and sealing division as well as its elders advisory committee to select the winner.

Whether the name reflects Inuit heritage, culture and language and if it represents the territory's fishing and sealing traditions are all factors that will be taken into consideration when selecting the winner.