KIVALLIQ - Kivalliq Rangers are among the 32 Canadian Rangers from across the North taking part in Operation Nunalivut this month at Alert and Ward Hunt Island, NU.

Rangers Philip Kringayark, left, of Repulse Bay and Mark Amarok of Chesterfield Inlet display the Ranger flag while taking part in Operation Nunalivut in Alert from April 8 to 26, as part of 1 Canadian Ranger Patrol Group. - photo courtesy of Capt. Steve Watton

The exercise, which runs from April 8 to 26, is one of three major operations conducted each year in the North by the Canadian Forces.

The purpose of the exercise is to enhance Canadian Forces knowledge and capacity to operate in austere locations and challenging environments.

It also demonstrates the military's ability to effectively respond to safety and security emergencies in the Arctic in support of civil authorities.

Operation Nunalivut is under the command of the Joint Task Force North.

The Ranger participants are divided into five different patrols, with each doing various types of training and activities.

One patrol is involved with an ice camp about 100 nautical miles away from land, while a second is on Ward Hunt Island to travel across the tidal bridges on sovereignty patrols.

A third patrol, also on Ward Hunt Island, travelled west towards Alert Point, while patrol four moved overland at the northern end of Ellesmere Island.

The fifth patrol conducted training with the Arctic Response Company Group, before linking up with a Danish military patrol.

Capt. Steve Watton said the Canadian Rangers play an integral role in Canadian sovereignty issues.

"The Rangers are, of course, very skilled in the Northern climate," said Watton.

"Their ability to survive, live and operate effectively on the land, as well as their ability to guide, is a total benefit to Canadian Forces operations in the North."

Among the Canadian Forces groups taking part in the operation are 440 Transport Squadron, First Canadian Air Division, Winnipeg's 38 Canadian Brigade Group, and Edmonton's 41 Canadian Brigade Group, as well as a Port Inspection dive team.

Watton said Mother Nature has been more than co-operative, with the average daytime temperature being between -20 C and -25 C.

"The Rangers who participate in these operations gain very valuable skills and a great deal of experience.

"In addition, they get to share their knowledge of living and working in the North with others."