Inuvik centre expects Polar Year to max out resources

The only research lab in Inuvik could be flooded with scientists when International Polar Year begins inMarch, its director says.

About 500 researchers use the services of the Aurora Research Institute in normal years, Andrew Applejohn told CBC News.

With the extra emphasis on Arctic research next year, he expects another 100 scientists will come through the centre.

"It's hard to get prepared based on guesswork," Applejohn said.

"The number of beds in our accommodation, bench-top space in our labs, boats and motors, snowmobiles — I think there's going to be a number of primary logistic challenges."

More technicians and support staff will also be needed if the number of researchers gets too high, he said.

The number of researchers using the Inuvik centre will be influenced by how the federal government allocatesthe$150 million thathas beenearmarked for International Polar Yearprojects.

International Polar Year spokeswoman Sarah Kalhok said they are working on the allocation.

"Right now we are reviewing those proposals and we'll have a sense in the new year of those ones that will go ahead," she said.