Nunavik rock hunters rewarded

The call for rocks was heard: the Nunavik Mineral Exploration fund promoted a rock contest this summer and received 140 samples from all over Nunavik in response.

“This was to promote geology and to encourage Nunavimmiut to keep their eyes open for minerals,” said assistant geologist Tommy Weetalutuk.

Weetalutuk said 46 rocks were sent on for laboratory analysis. Among those sent, four showed outstanding results, and earned the rock hunters cash prizes.

The first prize of $1,000 went to Aquujaq Qisiiq of Kangiqsujuaq. His sample had 2.45 per cent copper, 18.49 per cent nickel and .2 per cent cobalt.

The second prize of $750 went to Adamie Tooktoo of Umiujaq whose rock contained copper and a trace of silver.

The third prize of $500 will be divided seven ways among the Section 1 and 2 students at Quaqtaq’s school: Tony Agnatuk, Putulik Ezekiel, Angela Jararuse, Alec Oovaut, Michael Tukkiapik, Rhoda Tukkiapik and Mae Angnatuk. Their sample contained a small amount of copper.

The fourth prize of $250 goes to Johnny Etok Sr. of Kangiqsujuaq, whose rock contained cobalt and copper.

Weetalutuk said the NMEF hopes to recruit some of the keen-eyed winners as prospectors in Nunavik.