(OTTAWA, Ontario, November 17, 2025) — The Arctic Research Foundation (ARF) applauds the government of Canada and the government of Manitoba’s recent announcement to fund ARF’s organization’s feasibility study exploring the deployment of specialized icebreakers, ice tugs, and research vessels to support operations at the Port of Churchill.

This fleet of vessels would be responsible for carrying out an ice management strategy that could extend the operating year of the Port to eight or more months, drastically increasing the value and economic opportunities stemming from this vital trade infrastructure.

“We’re thankful to the Manitoba and Canadian governments for their vision and leadership and honoured to be part of such an important nation-building project,” said Tom Henheffer, the CEO of the Arctic Research Foundation. “With ARF’s dedication to Northern communities, our commitment to environmental sustainability, and our experience operating research vessels and infrastructure throughout the Arctic, we are confident this project marks an early step toward environmentally responsible economic prosperity for Northerners and Canada as a whole.”

As climate change lengthens ice-free seasons and global interest in Arctic shipping grows, the Port of Churchill, North America’s ONLY deep-water Arctic port directly connected to the continental rail network, is uniquely positioned to become a strategic national gateway to the world.

ARF’s ice management strategy is rooted in partnership with Indigenous peoples, and could unlock multiple benefits, including improved scientific access to the Arctic, the creation of jobs and infrastructure in northern Manitoba and a reinforced national presence in the region.

Each phase of the plan is structured to deliver maximum benefit with modest investment, advancing only when prior goals are met. This staged approach builds confidence and minimizes risk, ensuring the project remains both operationally and socially responsible.

For more information or to book an interview or broadcast segment, please contact:

Tracy Chilton

Email: tracychilton@arcticresearchfoundation.ca

About ARF: The Arctic Research Foundation is a Canadian non-profit charity that supports innovation, infrastructure, and community-driven research in the North.