| Abstract/Description or Keywords |
Based on a review of the indicators in this report, many elements of the natural environment in the Columbia Basin-Boundary region are in decline. We have seen a rapidly declining mountain caribou population, an increasing number of bears destroyed, and an increased number of species at risk. Some indicators such as air quality and the leading causes for bears destroyed have remained relatively unchanged. It is important to note, however, that small change may make an indicator seem stable, but accrued over long periods of time small changes can have serious implications on the environment and are not to be ignored. As such, continued monitoring of the indicators in this report is of critical importance given the uncertainties and complexities of the natural environment. The health of the natural environment should be a priority in all decision-making, especially regarding decisions surrounding development, tourism, and conservation programs and policies. These indicators and the information provided in this report are highly relevant to decision-makers and they should be used to inform understanding of potential impacts of decisions on the natural environment, as well as any impacts the state of the natural environment may have on the people and communities of the Columbia Basin-Boundary region. For example, decreasing snow packs will likely have adverse effects on skiing tourism in the region; the presence of species at risk may prevent future development; and poor air quality conditions pose serious human health threats. Furthermore, this type of environmental data can help prioritize issues that need our attention, contribute to our understanding of the effectiveness of environmental initiatives, and allow us to identify achievements that should be celebrated. Trends and conditions; Stream health; Snowpack; Glaciers; Species at risk; Invasive species; Water stewardship groups; Wetlands |
