Spring is Goose: Preparing the Next Generation of Cree Harvesters in Churchill, Manitoba
Spring is Goose: Preparing the Next Generation of Cree Harvesters in Churchill, Manitoba
April 28, 2026
Since time immemorial, Cree have travelled to the Hudson Bay coast in the spring to harvest geese. In Churchill, a food sovereignty program is helping ensure that these traditions continue through the next generation of hunters.
For the Cree of Manitoba, goose hunting is foundational to culture, livelihoods, nutrition, and the retention of traditional knowledge.
Each spring, Food Matters Manitoba supports Indigenous youth, from across the province, as they travel to Churchill for the annual harvest. There they are mentored by experienced hunters as they harvest and process food to bring back to their communities.
In 2025, Oceans North travelled to Churchill to document the hunt and celebrate the annual tradition as a way of maintaining connection to, and knowledge of, the lands, waters, and culture.
Watch the trailer here, and the full film below.
Looking for more?
Learn more about the role of harvesting in advancing local stewardship, maintaining traditional livelihoods, and supporting the well-being of Indigenous communities.
HARVESTING AS A WAY OF LIFE AND SOURCE OF INCOME
The practice of harvesting and the traditional livelihoods it supports can face significant barriers. In Eeyou Istchee, the Cree territory of northern Quebec, a harvester support program—which has run for nearly 50 years—may offer a solution.
Image – Along the Maquatua River, family camps represent a continuation of traditional Cree harvesting practices and livelihoods.
HOW INDIGENOUS HARVESTING SUPPORTS HEALTHY COMMUNITIES
In many remote Indigenous communities, harvesting puts food on the table and reduces reliance on over-priced groceries—but researchers are discovering the benefits of harvesting go well beyond the economic.
Image – A Cree man fishes along the Rupert River in Quebec, Canada
FOOD MATTERS MANITOBA
Food Matters Manitoba is a Winnipeg-based organization partnering with Manitoban communities to create sustainable food systems rooted in social justice.
Image – Across the province, Food Matters Manitoba provides gardening, harvesting, and infrastructure programs to communities.
SHARE SPRING IS GOOSE WITH YOUR COMMUNITY!
Looking to host a viewing of Spring is Goose with your organization or community? Access a free screening kit here.
Questions? Please contact Aaron Janzen (ajanzen@oceansnorth) or Morgan McCurdy ([email protected]).