(Press advisory via MSNBC, 17 March 2009) -- OTTAWA, ONTARIO - "Oceans and Marine Life Polar Day", an International Polar Year (IPY) webcast event, is taking place on March 18, 2009, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., at the theatre of the Museum of Civilization in Gatineau, Quebec.

"Our Government has made a tremendous contribution to Arctic research during International Polar Year. Polar Days are a great opportunity to share the initial findings of this research with the public" said the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Metis and Non-status Indians. "This event will offer Canadians the opportunity to learn about the exciting research in the area of oceans and marine life that has an impact on Canadians' health and well-being."

The webcast will feature presentations about marine mammal research including satellite tagging of beluga whales, and a live link to researchers on the ice of the Beaufort Sea examining key big-picture science issues about air-surface chemical interactions in the Arctic. This event is one of several IPY education and outreach activities focussing on ocean science in the polar regions taking place around the world in March.

Tagged: Education and outreach, IPY project, News