Resolution Island (Nunavut)
Resolution Island is an uninhabited island located off the southern coast of Baffin Island in Nunavut, Canada. It lies at the entrance to Hudson Strait, marking the southeastern limit of the strait and the northeastern point of Ungava Bay. The island is separated from Baffin Island by the Monumental Island Passage.
Geography:
Resolution Island is characterized by a rugged, rocky coastline and a tundra environment. Its terrain is marked by hills and valleys, and the island lacks substantial tree cover. The island's size is approximately 1,015 square kilometers (392 square miles).
History:
The island has a history of human presence, primarily linked to early exploration and maritime activity in the Arctic. During the Cold War, Resolution Island hosted a Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line station, part of a network of radar stations designed to detect Soviet bombers approaching North America. The DEW Line site was known as FOX-A. Following the closure of the DEW Line site in the 1990s, environmental remediation efforts were undertaken to address contamination related to its operation.
Environmental Concerns:
The legacy of the DEW Line station on Resolution Island has left a lasting environmental impact. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and other contaminants released during the site's operation have posed a challenge for remediation and continue to raise concerns about the health of the local ecosystem. Ongoing monitoring and cleanup efforts are conducted to mitigate the environmental damage.
Wildlife:
Resolution Island supports a variety of Arctic wildlife, including seabirds, marine mammals, and terrestrial animals adapted to the harsh climate. The island's coastal areas provide habitat for migratory birds, and its waters are home to seals, whales, and other marine species.
Access:
Due to its remote location and challenging environment, access to Resolution Island is limited. Travel to the island typically requires specialized transportation and careful planning. The island's historical significance and environmental concerns have led to restricted access in some areas.