The Wolverine Project: Evaluating Cumulative Effects Within the Land of Ktunaxa Using the One Heart Method.

Area of Science:

• Ecology and Conservation Biology
• Indigenous Knowledge Systems
• Environmental Impact Assessment

Background:

• Wildlife corridors are essential for biodiversity and are increasingly threatened by human activities and climate change.
• Ktunaxa lands and rights are directly impacted by habitat alteration and degradation.
• Understanding cumulative effects requires integrating diverse knowledge systems, including Indigenous perspectives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the cumulative effects of land use and climate change on a vital wildlife corridor.
• To assess impacts on Ktunaxa lands and rights, focusing on wolverine and grizzly bear populations.
• To integrate Ktunaxa research methodology and oral history into environmental assessment.

Main Methods:

• Application of Ktunaxa research methodology throughout the assessment process.
• Use of a pre-contact baseline (Range of Natural Variability - RONV) to simulate habitat conditions.
• Analysis of past, current, and proposed future land use, with an emphasis on recreational activities.

Main Results:

• Existing and proposed recreational developments significantly degrade wolverine and grizzly bear habitat.
• Increased backcountry access leads to habitat fragmentation, wildlife displacement, and increased mortality risk.
• Climate change exacerbates land use impacts, reducing habitat suitability and increasing human-wildlife interactions.

Conclusions:

• Cumulative land use, particularly recreational activities, poses substantial negative impacts on key species and habitat connectivity.
• Long-term, regional land stewardship planning is essential to mitigate adverse effects in ʔamak̓is Ktunaxa.
• Integrating Indigenous knowledge and perspectives is vital for effective environmental management and the protection of All Living Things (ʔa·kxam̓is q̓api qapsin).