We are investigating multiple issues of particular management importance. The first issue is outbreaks of avian cholera. Our objective is to determine the geographic extent of the outbreaks and to collect epidemiological data for laboratory analysis in order to help us to predict the severity and spread of disease. The second issue that we are examining is predation of common eider nests by polar bears. Our objective is to estimate nest predation rates by polar bears, determine the energetic benefits and limitations of this resource for bears, and examine the effects of increased nest predation on eider reproductive rates and population dynamics. Our research methodology emphasizes close collaboration with local communities. Our common eider surveys are boat-based and we hire local Inuit guides as boat captains and to assist with data collection. During portions of the surveys we will be camping on islands to facilitate sampling of areas far from town (Cape Dorset).