| Citation |
Sanderson, D., Picketts, I. M., Déry, S. J., Fell, B., Baker, S., Lee-Johnson, E., and Auger, M., 2015: Climate change and water at Stellat'en First Nation, British Columbia, Canada: Insights from western science and traditional knowledge, The Canadian Geographer, 59(2), 136-150, doi: 10.1111/cag.12142. |
| Abstract/Description or Keywords |
Insights from both western science and traditional knowledge were applied to identify, and begin to address, climate change and water impacts at Stellat'en First Nation, British Columbia, Canada. Qualitative data from interviews and surveys of Stellat'en community members were compiled and compared with air temperature, precipitation, and hydrometric data from meteorological stations and proximal rivers. Community Elders noted changes to river water levels and shifts in fish populations. The quantitative data revealed a 2.3_°C rise in air temperature, 5 percent increase in precipitation, and 10 percent decline in snowfall over a 40-year period. Results from these analyses were reported in two knowledge intersection workshops at Stellat'en First Nation, and information sharing took place to: facilitate discussion and awareness between traditional and western knowledge holders, gain insights on the community's views of climate change and water, and identify strategies for action. Recommendations formulated and implemented by Stellat'en First Nation include improved policies, and community and individual actions. |
