Kugaaruk – formerly Pelly Bay – is located on the northeastern Arctic coast, south of the Gulf of Boothia.

The community is very traditional and is home to the Netsiligmiut - the people of the seal. The traditional sea kayaking skills of the area are now frequently used as a tourist attraction, with guided tours and outfitting available for all skill levels. Dog sledding, whale watching, fishing, and hiking are also popular attractions in the community.

Potential non-renewable resources in the region include: gold and diamonds.

Land Use Planning

Approved Land Use Plan

The community of Kugaaruk is not yet covered by an approved land use plan. 

Draft Nunavut Land Use Plan

Between 2004 and 2011, NPC staff visited every Nunavut community to conduct individual “Use and Occupancy Mapping” interviews to collect information on traditional land use activities “within living memory”. This community land use information is included in the Draft Plan and has been used to support decision-making.

The Commission also visited the Community on March 18-19, 2014, for community engagement meetings on the Draft Plan.

Information was presented and received from participants in Kugaaruk in accordance with Nunavut Planning Commission’s Engagement Strategy. The summary report of the Community Meetings on the Draft Nunavut Land Use Plan held on March 18-19, 2014 in Kugaaruk can be found below.

The community views and comments have been very informative in the ongoing process of development and revisions of the Draft Nunavut Land Use Plan. In particular, all areas of importance identified by the community are included in the Draft Plan as “Community Priorities and Values”.