Aboriginal Fund for Species at Risk: Sixth–year Projects (2009–2010)


Monitoring Spillover of the Protected Gilbert Bay Cod from the Marine Protected Area (MPA) of Gilbert Bay

The Gilbert Bay cod has been of concern to the residents living near the resource for some time. The purpose of the project is to better understand the movement of the Gilbert Bay cod population outside of the marine protected area. The project will provide information on the dates and locations of Gilbert Bay cod at different times of the year. This information is needed to minimize the bycatch of Gilbert Bay cod during commercial cod fishing of the offshore population, which would have a tremendous impact on the Gilbert Bay cod population with anthropogenic disturbance of the population minimized as much as possible. Building capacity is also a crucial part of this project as it will provide real–life research and monitoring experience rather than a classroom setting or training session.

Labrador Métis Nation

Miawpukek First Nation Species at Risk Capacity Development (MSCD)

This project is intended to develop a species at risk coordinator for the Miawpukek First Nation (MFN). The coordinator will deal with all the issues related to the Species At Risk Act (SARA) that may affect MFN's traditions, customs and livelihood within its traditional territory; represent MFN on all recovery strategies; relay all information gathered pertaining to SARA back to the community and theMiawpukek government; promote SARA policies throughout Miawpukek, with the governing body and surrounding communities; incorporate these strategies into MFN's land– and marine–use plans; and represent MFN on other resource–use management or advisory boards.

Miawpukek First Nation

Aboriginal Guide to Collecting Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge – Development Project

The project involves the production of a guidebook for the collection of Aboriginal traditional knowledge (ATK), ATK research design and data collection and processing. The guidebook will support Aboriginal capacity–building in the coordination and implementation of ATK gathering as it relates to species at risk.

Miawpukek First Nation

Estimating Relative Abundance of Juvenile American Eel (Elvers) in Gespe'gewa'gi (Present–day Miramichi River, New Brunswick Area to Southern Parts of Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula)

The project is intended to gather data on the abundance or trends in abundance of juvenile American Eels (elvers) in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence region. Data will be collected by setting habitat traps and ramp traps and by counting elvers and compiling associated information about their length, weight, and pigmentation stage. Little is currently known about elvers. As such, this research will add considerably to scientific knowledge of the dynamics of the resource and help build a foundation for sustainable resource management of the species.

Gespe’gewaq Mi’gmaq Resource Council

Determination of Biological Characteristics and Relationship of American Eel (Kataq) Abundance in Habitats Identified in the Bras d'Or Lakes and Its Watershed

The project is a continuation of work done in 2008–2009 and aims to address current gaps in knowledge regarding elvers and eels in the Bras d'Or Lakes watershed in Nova Scotia. Data on length, weight, growth rates, spawner information, landings by the food fishery, presence/absence/timeline of swimbladder parasites, freshwater distribution and relative abundance, water quality and eel abundance/occurrence in nearshore habitats and freshwater environments will be collected. This information will complement current Aboriginal traditional knowledge to provide a holistic understanding of eel ecology in the Bras d'Or Lakes.

Using the data collected under the present project and past projects, decision–support tools in the form of a web–based GIS application will assist in the protection of important eel habitats by reducing the impact of human activities.

Unama'ki Institute of Natural Resources

Species of Aboriginal Special Interest and Concern Conservation Capacity Project 2009/Sandhills Protection

This work will support the protection of an ecologically and historically rich Mi'kmaq heritage landscape. The MCPEI seeks to implement a cooperative approach to protect an area rich in ecological, cultural, and archaeological resources, and home to endangered and rare wildlife species. The project will provide training to and build the capacity of PEI Mi’kmaq to participate in field–data collection and in habitat assessment and remediation in areas on reserves, adjacent to reserves, and on selected Crown lands, on the way to accomplishing the project’s goals. The species of interest in this project are American Eel and Atlantic Salmon.

Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI (MCPEI)

Banded Killifish Distribution on the Island Portion of Newfoundland and Labrador

Mi'kmaq Alsumk Mowimsikik Koqoey Association (MAMKA) will sample for Banded Killifish in the greater Bay D'Espoir/Coast of Bays, Bay of Islands, and St. George’s Bay areas. Rivers, ponds and estuaries along the shoreline and inland will be randomly and opportunistically sampled for Banded Killifish. Minnow traps will be baited with salted crackers and set out for approximately 24 hours. The locations of all Banded Killifish sampled will be documented and samples may be preserved for future reference. Maps will be drawn to illustrate Killifish locations in Newfoundland. MAMKA will also produce a newsletter article and webpage to complement the project.

Mi'kmaq Alsumk Mowimsikik Koqoey Association (MAMKA)

Capacity Building for Species At Risk Consultation, Listing and Planning

The purpose of the project will be to develop capacity among the Mi'kmaq of Nova Scotia to participate in species at risk (SAR) activities. Specifically, this project will develop and implement a SAR consultation or listing process and a Mi'kmaq species at risk program. The project would be the start of a structured approach to Mi'kmaq involvement in SAR management.

Kwilmu'kw Maw–Klusuaqn (Mi'kmaq Rights Initiative)

Maintaining FFHR Involvement and Capacity in Species At Risk – Inner Bay of Fundy Atlantic Salmon and American Eel

The project will build on work undertaken in past years with respect to conservation initiatives for inner Bay of Fundy (iBoF) Atlantic Salmon and American Eel. Fort Folly staff and three First Nations youths from other communities will carry out data collection and monitoring of salmon and eels in three New Brunswick rivers. Marine research on iBoF salmon migration and mortality will also be carried out using cutting–edge satellite telemetry. With the North Shore MicMac District Council, Parks Canada Agency and regional Aboriginal traditional knowledge (ATK) experts, we will conduct a pilot project to test existing ATK collection protocols. The ATK component will make it possible to communicate the overall project concept to community members and to incorporate ATK information into management strategies for these species. We will also be developing an educational pamphlet on the eel for distribution in the region. This project will serve to benefit youth staff by giving them valuable experience, skills and certifications in working with species at risk. It will also meaningfully contribute to the recovery of the endangered iBoF Atlantic Salmon and American Eel by increasing our understanding of their conservation needs.

Fort Folly First Nation

Wildlife Stewardship Guardians

The purpose of this project will be to monitor in–the–field interactions between land users and the caribou of Labrador, particularly the threatened, non–migratory Red Wine and Mealy Mountains herds. This project will increase awareness and support within Innu communities for the conservation and recovery of Woodland Caribou and assist in the development of management measures for achieving recovery of the species.

Innu Nation

Facilitating a Network of Mi'kmaw Youth Stewardship

The project will engage Mi'kmaw youth in a year–long training program in which participants will assist in species at risk (SAR) field work in and around the Kejimkujik, Annapolis and Bear rivers in the L'sitkuk traditional territories. They will gain traditional/cultural knowledge of key species and their habitats, build expertise in environmental leadership and stewardship, and develop self expression (story–telling and performance skills) of this knowledge/experience. The project contains a strong relationship–building component wherein our youth team will connect with other regional First Nations youth groups to promote other SAR stewardship community–based projects. We will host an environmental gathering for youth to further promote stewardship activities and share knowledge and experience.

Bear River First Nation – L'sitkuk Enviro Centre

American Eel Elver Monitoring, Sex/Density Study, and Population Monitoring

American Eel elvers will be trapped and documented in the St. George’s Bay and Bay D’Espoir regions of Newfoundland and Labrador. The recruitment of the areas will be determined. MAMKA will also determine the relationship between sex and densities within a given habitat. It is expected that the research will contribute to filling knowledge gaps in the life history of American Eel.

Mi'kmaq Alsumk Mowimsikik Koqoey Association (MAMKA)

Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge in Species At Risk Assessment

This project will address the requirements to collect Aboriginal traditional knowledge in the assessment of the American Eel and Striped Bass. The project will include documenting current and historical use of the species, population trends and the cultural significance of each species.

Mi'kma'ki All Points Services

ARISES 2009 – Aboriginal Youth Involvement in the SARA Process

The project will advance the involvement of Traditional Ancestral Homelands Aboriginal Peoples in the Maritimes Region in species at risk–related issues, especially among the youth. It will engage youth in learning about the Species At Risk Act (SARA) listing process by getting them to participate in role–playing, case studies, and brainstorming workshops. The project uses specific, real–life examples of coastal and marine species at risk to raise awareness among young Aboriginals, identify obstacles to their involvement in SARA, and make recommendations on how to obtain and sustain their interest in SAR–related issues.

Maritime Aboriginal Peoples Council

Miramichi Striped Bass Assessment and American Eel Habitat Awareness Program

Eel Ground First Nation is situated along the northwestern branch of the Miramichi River in New Brunswick. This is the only known spawning grounds for Striped Bass in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence. As such, it is important to contribute to protecting this species by collecting Aboriginal traditional knowledge from the elders in the community and by collecting Striped Bass and American Eel sampling data from the Aboriginal Gaspereau trap net fishery. NSMDC will also undertake a project to raise awareness of the American Eel and its habitat to develop capacity and provide information and outreach on this species of concern and targeted at the local First Nation communities.

North Shore Micmac District Council (NSMDC) Inc.

Piping Plover Monitoring in St. George's Bay, Newfoundland

The Mi'kmaq Alsumk Mowimsikik Koqoey Association (MAMKA) will monitor the Piping Plover in the St. George’s Bay area and conduct population surveys in the Bay of Islands. MAMKA will also opportunistically educate individuals and communities and raise awareness about the Piping Plover in particular and the Species At Risk Act in general.

Mi'kmaq Alsumk Mowimsikik Koqoey Association (MAMKA)

Community–based Coastal Resource Inventory for Nunatsiavut: Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge (ATK) for Species at Risk: Phase III

The primary focus of these coastal resource inventory projects is to collect marine–based information such as species occurrence, traditional fishing areas and marine–related uses (e.g. fish processing plants and wharves). It may also include the collection and presentation of other types of information such as on tourism and recreational resources. Such inventories provide useful information for promoting economic development, conservation and management within the coastal zone (including the near–shore marine resources and land resources connected to the marine environment).

Nunatsiavut

Eel and Striped Bass Stewardship

Elsipogtog First Nation (EFN) is leading a species at risk project on the American Eel and Striped Bass populations in the Richibucto River in New Brunswick. The project will examine adult population status, the use of estuarine and freshwater habitats by juveniles, migration patterns of eels in the river, and the effects of commercial fishery bycatch on juvenile and adult Striped Bass. EFN will use a blend of modern science and traditional ecological knowledge during the implementation of the project. The work will be carried out by EFN in partnership with Kouchibouguac National Park, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, and the University of Moncton.

Elsipogtog First Nation

Sea Turtle Documentation on the Northeastern Coast of Newfoundland

The Mi'kmaq Alsumk Mowimsikik Koqoey Association (MAMKA) will conduct four to eight surveys along the northeastern coast of Newfoundland to document sea turtles. Using transect surveys, turtles will be sampled and potential threats identified. The turtles will be photographed and videotaped. Defining characteristics and turtle behaviour will be documented. All findings will be made available on the MAMKA website or upon request.

Mi'kmaq Alsumk Mowimsikik Koqoey Association (MAMKA)

Sustainable Involvement of Aboriginal Communities in the Protection of Marine Species at Risk and Characterization of their Critical Habitats

The Agence Mamu Innu Kaikusseht (AMIK) seeks to obtain the commitment of four Innu communities in protecting St. Lawrence marine species and their habitats. To this end, 12 Innu from four communities will be trained to carry out an inventory of species at risk on their lands. Also, awareness–raising workshops will be organized for school children and community meetings will be held. The species at risk involved in the project are the Atlantic Walrus, Barrow’s Goldeneye, Harlequin Duck, North Atlantic Right Whale, Leatherback Turtle, American Eel, Atlantic Cod, Polar Bear, and Eelgrass Limpet.

Agence Mamu Innu Kaikusseht (AMIK)

Mahikan Project

The objective of the project is to transmit awareness–raising messages on species at risk during radio programs. They will be broadcast in Aboriginal languages by the Société de Communication Atikamekw–Montagnais Inc. (SOCAM). Elders will speak about their experiences, their observations and ways to protect wildlife species. The elders know about behaviour and habits, such as feeding, breeding and birthing, and the most recent changes in animals and plants. They will be called on to impart their knowledge and traditional values to the young people. In collaboration with Environment Canada, SOCAM will launch consultation meetings on caribou, planned for 2009, with a broadcast segment on the subject. A portion of the radio programming will also be dedicated to providing information and education on species at risk in order to influence the behaviour of hunters and trappers.

SOCAM

Build Awareness, Educate and Equip Members of the Huron–Wendat Nation to Better Manage Problems related to Species at Risk

The aim of this project is to acquire and transmit traditional knowledge on the species at risk present on Huron–Wendat territory, the Nionwentsïo, within the larger objective of promoting the sustainable and harmonious use of the land. The short–term goal of the project is to identify the largest possible number of vulnerable habitats that are essential breeding grounds for the species at risk and to seek, in the shortest time frame possible, the recognition of these habitats by companies operating on the territory.

Huron–Wendat Nation Council

Acquisition of Knowledge and Management Plan of Woodland Caribou, Boreal Population, on Nitassinan, Innu First Nation of Essipit

The project involves the acquisition of new knowledge on the Woodland Caribou metapopulation occupying Nitassinan in Essipit. Information transmitted by geographic positioning system (GPS) radio collars will be collected and the batteries changed to ensure their smooth operation over the next year. The data will be analyzed and integrated into a report for use by various government and industry stakeholders to prepare a management plan and establish specific agreements. Communications activities will also be carried out among members of the community to raise awareness about the precarious state of the species. The implementation of an information–gathering process for land users will continue.

Innu Council of Essipit

Monitoring and Protection of the Lake Sturgeon, the Wood Turtle and the Butternut on the Traditional Lands of the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg

This project focuses on the continued monitoring and protection of the Wood Turtle population in the Aigle and Désert rivers and the inventorying of four new populations, confirmed by our work in 2008; the acquisition of knowledge on the ecology of the Lake Sturgeon in two new sectors of the Gatineau River near two hydro–electric dams; the completion of the location and characterization of the huge population of Butternut present on reserve land; and the promotion of the survival of Butternuts by clearing out and burning the most diseased trees.

A complementary awareness–raising campaign will be conducted among all members of the community. In addition, we will carry on our objective of training and building capacity among the local workforce by hiring and training members of the community.

Finally, we will form links with the scientific world (scientific presentation of our results and hiring of a graduate student in 2009) and other communities in the great Algonquin Nation to share our discoveries.

Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg

Precise Data Collection of Detected At–risk Species, Turtle Egg–laying Site Protection and Rare Plants Survey and Protection on Eagle Village First Nation Land

Eagle Village First Nation, in collaboration with Environment Canada and a specialist from the Ministère du Développement durable de l'environnement et des Parcs, will perform Blanding and Spotted turtle surveys and produce protection guidelines for culvert construction to minimize impacts on turtles. Threatened species of frogs, birds and snakes will also be investigated. The community will also perform a survey of rare plants and the results will be integrated into a databank to support the protection of the species. The classification of ecosystems harbouring rare plant species would also be subjected to further analysis in order to prevent their potential destruction.

Eagle Village First Nation – Kipawa

Communication and Capacity–building Activities for the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Sustainable Development Institute on Species at Risk

The First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Sustainable Development Institute (FNQLSDI) will hold an information day on the consultation meetings that are planned on species at risk, in collaboration with the government departments concerned. During this event, First Nations people will obtain relevant information on the upcoming consultations, existing recovery plans and possible protection activities. This project will facilitate the negotiation work of the federal departments and First Nations. The second component will focus on collecting data on the customs of First Nations people around the harvesting and use of the different anatomical parts of birds of prey for personal, ceremonial, religious or medicinal purposes. The project will be conducted in collaboration with the Union québécoise de réhabilitation des oiseaux de proie. The FNQLSDI will also organize various events to raise awareness about species at risk among First Nations communities.

First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Sustainable Development Institute

Val–d'Or Caribou: Post–seminar Monitoring, Upper Ottawa Lake Sturgeon Situation

Recommendations arising from the seminar on the Val d’Or caribou in February 2009 will guide future measures for the recovery of the herd. The Kitcisakik Forest Committee will play a frontline role in the implementation of this recovery plan in the coming months.

The decline of the Lake Sturgeon population in the Upper Ottawa River is of great concern to the Kitcisakik Anicinapek. An inventory of the main spawning sites will be carried out along with an awareness–raising campaign for Aboriginal fishers on the status of the species.

Anicinapek Council of Kitcisakik

Update the Eastern Wolf and the Wolverine Distribution in the Abitibi–Témiscamingue and Northern Quebec Areas

The 2009 Timiskaming First Nation’s species at risk project will focus on the Eastern Wolf and the Wolverine. The goal is to collect data on the wolf’s habitat use and genetic distinctiveness. Harmonization strategies will consider the wolf’s travel corridors to ensure their protection. The Wolverine portion of the project will seek to determine whether or not there is a difference between the Western population and the Eastern population. We may also be in a position to collect data on traditional knowledge of Wolverines in northern Quebec.

Timiskaming First Nation

Inventory and Development Activities for Turtles, Freshwater Mussels and Hawthorns by the Odanak Community

This project is intended to consolidate the work of the land and resource management team. The team has already begun several partnerships with local and regional organizations for the implementation of protection activities for threatened species. The current project is intended to increase knowledge and build community capacity to preserve land quality by taking part in the management and the restoration of at–risk populations. Activities will focus on increasing knowledge of the land by getting interested in species at risk, raising awareness among community members and undertaking conservation initiatives. The project therefore includes inventorying and describing the habitats of a number of target species included on federal and provincial species at risk lists. The project is also intended to develop other partnerships, share data, raise awareness among the population and establish protective areas for the species at risk present on their territory.

Odanak Band Council

Document Piekuakamiulnuatsh Traditional Knowledge on the Kuekuatshau, (Wolverine), the Athik (Woodland Caribou) and their Habitats

The project is intended to document traditional Piekuakamiulnuatsh knowledge of the Woodland Caribou and the Wolverine and their habitats. The objectives are to assemble, compile and conserve this knowledge for future generations. In addition, this information could be used for the recovery of the Wolverine and Woodland Caribou populations.

Lac Saint–Jean Montagnais Council

Search for New Populations and Protection of the Anticosti Aster on Highly Promising Sites on the Ancestral Lands of the Gespeg Micmac

The project is mainly intended to search for and protect the critical habitat of the Anticosti Aster populations in three rivers recognized as highly promising for the species: the York, Dartmouth and Saint John’s rivers in the Gaspé region. The objectives are to carry out targeted surveys all along these three rivers, taking into account traditional knowledge and taking preventive measures to protect these critical habitats. The project is in line with two planned activities under the Quebec Anticosti Aster conservation plan, which are to look for new populations of the species at promising sites and to raise awareness among users of these sites.

Nation Micmac de Gespeg

Sampling Program of Nunavik Beluga Harvest

The at–risk Eastern Hudson Bay (EHB) and Ungava Bay (UB) Beluga Whales, and the much healthier Western Hudson Bay population, are hunted while migrating along the coasts of Nunavik. The goal of this project is to monitor harvest composition by sampling harvested belugas for age, sex, colour, date and location of harvest as well as for stock identification by DNA analysis of their skin. This information will help determine whether some area/time closures could result in the maintenance of overall harvest levels while protecting at–risk stocks.

Makivik Corporation

Sharing the Wisdom of the Alderville First Nation Black Oak Savanna

This project will support educational and outreach activities at the Alderville Black Oak Savanna to assist in developing a more robust nature education program. This practical ecological restoration project is intended to raise awareness of one of the most endangered habitats in the world, the Black Oak Savanna and Tallgrass Prairie. Programs will be developed and delivered to teach schools, community groups and area residents about the wonders of some of our species at risk and the steps that can be taken to aid in their recovery and protection. Volunteer events will be organized to involve more people in hands–on restoration work of this highly valued environment.

Alderville First Nation

Species at Risk Inventory at Serpent River First Nation

This project aims to raise awareness among the members of the Serpent River First Nation, which is located on the North Channel of Lake Huron. Its rocky coastline is dominated by wetlands, small lakes and rocky uplands that include potential habitat for a variety of species at risk. Serpent River First Nation will conduct an inventory and mapping project in order to identify which species at risk are present. This work will lead to the development of a management strategy for species at risk, including policies to protect any species present on the territory.

Serpent River First Nation

Supplementary Species at Risk Surveys to Update an Existing Species at Risk Mapping Database and Creation of a Species at Risk Monitoring and Management Plan

Georgina Island First Nation (GIFN) consists of three islands within Lake Simcoe which are within the urban sprawl of the Greater Toronto Area. The islands possess pristine woodlands and large wetlands which are suitable habitat for a number of animal and plant species at risk. This project will focus on locating one particular species at risk and its important habitat within the community, in order to create a Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping database to allow the community to monitor, protect and preserve this species on First Nation lands.

Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation

Ochiichagwe'babigo'ining Ojibway Nation Lake Sturgeon Stewardship Project

The Ochiichagwe'babigo'ining Ojibway Nation Lake Sturgeon Stewardship Project will provide the information necessary to develop an effective recovery plan for Lake Sturgeon in the Winnipeg River system, in addition to developing the capacity of the community to successfully implement the recovery plan. This project will enable the Ochiichagwe'babigo'ining Ojibway Nation to continue to act as stewards of the land and play an active role in the conservation and restoration of Lake Sturgeon in their traditional territory. This project is a continuation of work initiated in 2008.

Ochiichagwe’babigo'ining Ojibway Nation

Ways of Knowing Partnership, Turtle Island Conservation: Community Mapping of Species at Risk

At the request of our First Nations community partners, the goals of the Turtle Island Conservation Initiative (TICI) are to build capacity in conservation and best management practices. This is to minimize the impacts of land and resource use on at–risk turtles, wetland species and their habitats through the recognition and recovery of traditional knowledge (TK). The TICI will engage First Nations community partners (pilot program initiated with Wasauksing First Nation) to facilitate elder–youth dialogue, traditional ways of knowing, outreach education in First Nation schools, and the development of curriculum resources in two First Nations languages. This initiative will promote dialogue and knowledge preservation within and between First Nations communities.

Board of Management, Toronto Zoo

Attawapiskat First Nation's Traditional Ecological Knowledge Outreach on Polar Bears

This project facilitates community outreach to the communities of Attawapiskat, Fort Albany, Moose Cree and Kashechewan First Nations on the population status of Polar Bears and bear–human encounters. Community members, specifically the youth, will be educated about the reasons for the decline in Polar Bear population and habitat. The long–term goal is to develop guidelines to protect the Polar Bears and their habitat within the First Nations communities and their traditional territories.

Mushkegowuk Environmental Research Centre (MERC)

Anishinaabe – Land Centre for Traditional Knowledge – Species at Risk Regional Information Gathering of Traditional Knowledge (TK)

This project will raise awareness of the creation of a Centre for Anishinaabe traditional knowledge (ATK) on species and spaces at risk. Activities within this project will engage First Nation communities across the traditional territory of the Williams Treaty/The Land Between in the sharing of information in traditional and new ways and in coordinating efforts for increasing awareness of and stewardship for species at risk. Information gathered and communicated will encourage awareness of species at risk and their cultural significance within each community. Traditional, new and appropriate methods for ATK gathering will be outlined and transferred. Staff will approach and build relationships with other First Nations to gather ATK on species at risk. Communication materials will be prepared to raise awareness and build interest. Additionally, a standardized database will be created and maintained at Curve Lake to support ongoing outreach and education efforts in the application of the information collected. A workshop and celebration will be held to gather and communicate traditional stories and information. The project outcomes will include a cohesive central platform for collaboration, cooperation and information sharing across First Nations within the region, resulting in the reinvigoration of traditional practices and culture, and enhanced awareness, appreciation and stewardship for totem species and species at risk. All ATK remains the intellectual property of each First Nation and will be under the custodianship of Curve Lake.

Curve Lake First Nation

Species at Risk Mapping and Development of a Species at Risk Protocol to Incorporate into a Land–use Plan

Beausoleil First Nation (BFN) would like to complete a species at risk Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping database project for Christian, Hope and Beckwith islands and to develop a species at risk protocol for later integration into their land–use plan. The protocol would define what protective measures the band would take when a species at risk is threatened or impacted on its lands. The project would also introduce species at risk identified in BFN to the community members in order to raise awareness of them on the islands. By so doing, a relationship would be developed with certificate–of–possession holders who may have species at risk on their lands and who may consider entering into a conservation agreement.

Beausoleil First Nation (BFN)

Community and Youth Knowledge Sharing of Polar Bear Population in Fort Severn First Nation

This project assists the community of Fort Severn First Nation in collecting and analysing historical and traditional data, in partnership with Lakehead University (LU) and the Keewaytinook Okimakanak Research Institute (KORI), to advance understanding of the Polar Bear, its migratory patterns and habitat in their traditional territory. Local guides and youths will collect and share traditional knowledge (TK) regarding conservation strategies. A monitoring plan, in combination with the Polar Bear profile, will prepare the leadership for discussing regulations with governing agencies. Local youth will also be engaged in an awareness campaign to encourage the transfer and sharing of their culture and heritage. The project is built on the success of a Polar Bear profile developed and maintained by the community using traditional and cultural knowledge.

Keewaytinook Okimakanak Research Institute (KORI)

Community–based Conservation Planning, Capacity–building and Stewardship for Species At Risk

The Chippewas of Nawash First Nation value the gifts bestowed by the Great Spirit; are aware of their obligation to act as stewards of those gifts; and are committed to protecting them for the present and future generations. The First Nation is building knowledge, community awareness and capacity relating to species at risk recovery and conservation. Through this project, a conservation planning atlas is being prepared that will include information about species and ecosystems within the territory, mapping, good stewardship practices, and traditional knowledge (TK) gained from elders.

Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation

Surveys of Birds and Other Fauna and Flora, 2009

This project will focus on late spring and summer breeding bird surveys of Six Nations habitats, as well as ongoing at–risk bird species monitoring in fall and early winter. Specific surveys will be conducted for breeding birds, as well as summer flora and reptiles. Landowner contact, information sharing and learning will occur through community events, informal gatherings and meetings, presentations, a website and publication of a bird booklet.

Grand River Employment and Training Inc.

Restoring Habitat for Species at Risk using Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge (ATK) and Aboriginal Medicines

This project will implement the use of aboriginal traditional knowledge (ATK) in land management strategies that are important for sustaining Anishinabe culture. Blending ATK and science will enrich current land–management strategies, thereby improving methods for conserving species at risk and their habitats. This project will employ Anishinabe community members to gather ATK from elders and knowledgeable community members, and merge this information into species at risk recovery strategies and action plans currently in place. The project will also help develop a set of recommendations for species at risk and habitat protection for submission to the chiefs and councils of Garden River and Batchewana First Nations. A website will also be created, in conjunction with the www.Gardenriver.org website, and presentations will be arranged and promoted to both Anishinabe and non–native communities in order to increase knowledge and promote stewardship of species at risk.

Garden River First Nation

Wabaseemoong – Winnipeg and English River Lake Sturgeon Program

This project will allow for the continued development of the knowledge and management capacity required by the First Nations to actively participate in the restoration of the Lake Sturgeon population in that portion of the Winnipeg and English rivers traditionally used by people from the community. By developing skills and technical abilities, we will increase the awareness and understanding of the ecology of the Lake Sturgeon and become active and effective stewards of the rivers that First Nations occupy. This project will provide valuable scientific and aboriginal traditional knowledge (ATK) as well as information and data to the larger Lake Sturgeon program being conducted in partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) on the Winnipeg and English rivers.

Wabaseemoong Independent Nations

Engage Elders and Traditional Medicine Keepers to Locate and Conserve Small White Lady's Slipper and Spiny Softshell Turtle

To sustain the stories and knowledge of our elders, we have devised a plan to merge cultural sustainability with the conservation of two very fragile species found on the Thames First Nation Territory. The objective of this project is to bring highly knowledgeable entities together for the first time on this territory. The intention is to assume our natural responsibility to the land and to create an avenue for all brothers and sisters to participate in a healthy future for the plants and animals alongside the youth of our community. We understand that the Creator has given us all the gift of life and we intend to pass on important knowledge to the next seven generations to come.

Chippewas of the Thames First Nation

Presence of Woodland Caribou on the Wahgoshig Land–use Territory

This project is aimed at compiling information on the potential presence of the Woodland Caribou on the Wahgoshig First Nation land–use territory. Using a combination of both scientific and traditional information gathered through interviews conducted with Wahgoshig First Nation (WFN) trappers and elders, the community will be able to identify if caribous were or are present. A study focused on known caribou habitat will also be conducted as part of a spatial analysis. At the end of the project, educational materials will be created to document the findings and maintain a level of awareness.

Wahgoshig First Nation (WFN)

Surveying Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory for Species at Risk and Their Habitat

This project focuses on gathering data on the habitat and breeding grounds of various species at risk throughout the Tyendinaga Territory. Outreach to the community will take place and survey results will be distributed. Educational materials will be produced and distributed for the entire community with the goal of eventually translating the materials into Mohawk.

Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte

Promoting Knowledge and Understanding of Species at Risk and Species at Risk Issues within Cat Lake and Slate Falls First Nations through the Collection of Community Traditional Knowledge (TK)

The intentions of this project are to promote knowledge and understanding of species at risk and related issues within these communities. This will be accomplished through the development of educational material and aboriginal traditional knowledge (ATK) data–collection efforts.

Cat Lake and Slate Falls First Nations

Capacity Building for Seven First Nations in Southern Ontario to Undertake Species at Risk Activity Using Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge (ATK)

The Southern First Nation Secretariat (SFNS) proposes, with this project, to build capacity within the SFNS to effectively address species at risk issues in each of the seven First Nations in Southern Ontario. Working with member communities, the SFNS will develop a five–year species at risk strategy to provide a roadmap for our member nation to better deal with these species at risk, while incorporating the valuable traditional knowledge (TK) of our elders and knowledge keepers.

Southern First Nation Secretariat (SFNS)

Species at Risk Youth Initiative

This project supports the activities of the Anishinaabeg of Kabapikotawanagag Resource Council’s (AKRC) Species at Risk Youth Initiative project, which is a launching point to educating young people about species at risk. The project will begin by employing a youth coordinator who will guide his/her peers in the development of the skills and education needed to take part in environmental protection and planning recovery strategies for species at risk. Youth will learn about future career opportunities in the field of natural resource sciences. AKRC community members (youth, adults and elders alike) will learn about species at risk and share this knowledge. The project is needed to build capacity by providing youth today with the tools that they will need for tomorrow.

Anishinaabeg of Kabapikotawanagag Resource Council (AKRC) Inc.

Year 2: Population Status and Enhancement Strategy for Lake Sturgeon in Lake Nipissing

This project is intended to highlight the work of the Nipissing First Nation, which is leading a comprehensive study on Lake Nipissing in an effort to understand the population status and habitat needs of Lake Sturgeon and to develop a plan to protect and enhance this ancient species. Lake Sturgeon in Lake Nipissing have been fished to near–extinction over the last century and much of their habitat has been degraded by industry. Little is known about its present status (whether it is in recovery or decline) in the lake. Nipissing First Nation, through a series of studies that include radio–telemetry, tagging of juveniles and adults, and mapping of habitats, intends to acquire the information necessary to protect and enhance the existence of this fish in Lake Nipissing for generations. A recovery plan will be developed with input from the communities around Lake Nipissing once all the data are analyzed.

Nipissing First Nation

Developing a Community Monitoring Program for Lake Sturgeon in the Berens River (Red–Assiniboine Rivers–Lake Winnipeg population)

The present size and structure of the Lake Sturgeon population on the portion of the Berens River system within the Whitefeather Forest is poorly understood. The goal of this project is to increase the joint capacity of Pikangikum First Nation and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) to contribute to the monitoring and recovery of Lake Sturgeon in the Berens River. Traditional Pikangikum stewardship roles will be brought to the fore by providing opportunities to participate in Lake Sturgeon monitoring activities, including developing a method for the long–term monitoring of the Pikangikum subsistence fishery. Monitoring of the Lake Sturgeon population in the Berens River system will help develop the baseline data needed for future recovery efforts.

Whitefeather Forest Management Corporation

2009–2010 Manitoba Species at Risk Pathfinder Initiative

The 2009–2010 Manitoba species at risk (SAR) Pathfinder Initiative will increase awareness and participation of First Nations in species at risk issues, processes, and stewardship. This will be accomplished by enhancing knowledge of SAR among teachers and students through workshops and classroom learning, including hands–on exercises. The initiative will also deliver SAR technical workshops for First Nations and assist communities to become engaged in projects for the protection and recovery of species at risk and their habitat within their territories.

Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources (CIER)

Incorporating Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge in the Wabanong Nakaygum Okimawin Strategy for Species at Risk

The Wabanong Nakaygum Okimawin (WNO) Council of Chiefs Inc. and the Province of Manitoba agreed to work together to develop a new government–to–government relationship, including land and resource management and benefit sharing. These principles are contained in an accord signed in April 2003. Concurrently with land use planning, one of the immediate projects is to address species at risk in the WNO planning area. Although the priority of this proposal is to address species at risk and their habitats, there are many other issues at hand. The overall WNO planning process will bring First Nations closer to reclaiming jurisdiction over their natural resources and traditional lands. One of the elements of this proposal is to address capacity building while incorporating Aboriginal traditional knowledge into decision making. As part of the capacity building, supplies and equipment will be purchased for each First Nation undertaking land–use planning. First Nations can undertake, control and manage mapping capability of their traditional lands. This information will be used to make informed decisions on resource allocation and resource use. As land planning experience is gained, it is expected that First Nations will secure and share benefits/revenues from resource users operating on their traditional lands. Revenues would be used to help sustain and finance land and resource management offices in their communities.

Wabanong Nakaygum Okimawin Secretariat

2009–2010 Species at Risk Surveys and Monitoring in Manitoba First Nation Communities

Under the Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources (CIER), two Manitoba First Nation communities will gather information on population, abundance, and habitat for species at risk (SAR) on their lands. Swan Lake First Nation will gather data on the Prairie Skink, an endangered lizard living in sand hill habitat. Sandy Bay First Nation will gather data for three bird species at risk: the Least Bittern, a threatened marsh bird, the Red–headed Woodpecker, a threatened woodland bird, and the Yellow Rail, a bird of special concern. The information collected under this project will help to guide future SAR recovery planning and encourage stewardship activities for SAR on First Nations lands.

Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources (CIER)

Métis Traditional Knowledge: Habitat and Trends for NWT Species at Risk

Under the North Slave Métis Alliance (NSMA), this project will educate North Slave Métis about SARA and species at risk. The project will also collect traditional Métis knowledge on these species, their habitats and their challenges, and develop community priorities and goals for management of species at risk and their habitats on NSMA–owned lands and in the rest of their traditional territory.

North Slave Métis Alliance

Inuit Participation in a Training Workshop to Build Capacity in the Kivalliq Region of Nunavut

The Hunters and Trappers Organizations (HTOs) Manager and one board member from the seven HTOs in the Kivalliq region of Nunavut will attend a training workshop developed by the federal government on the Species at Risk Act (SARA). The goal of the workshop is to provide information on how to actively engage in the SARA listing process and participate in the development and implementation of recovery documents and funding proposals. This knowledge will enable attendees to educate HTOs and communities on how SARA works and help them to get involved in SARA programs in ways that benefit both Nunavummiut and wildlife species at risk.

Nunavut Inuit Wildlife Secretariat

Supporting First Nations Participation in the 2010 Prairie Conservation and Endangered Species Conference (PCESC)

This project will support the participation of First Nations from Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta in the upcoming Prairie Conservation and Endangered Species Conference (PCESC) in February 2010. Their attendance will help build relationships, with each other and with government, and increase their capacity to protect and recover species at risk and their habitat on First Nations lands. This will be done by: ensuring that the topics covered in the agenda are relevant to First Nations; promoting the PCESC to First Nations; making the travel arrangements and covering travel costs; and facilitating First Nations discussions at the PCESC of issues that are unique to them.

Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources (CIER)

Sturgeon Conservation in the Community

In the Earth’s life cycles, “what goes around comes around.” The primary focus of this project is to engage young people in sturgeon conservation. The sustainability of the sturgeon for present and future generations is threatened by overfishing, while its very survival is in peril due to the destruction of its habitat from hydro–electric flooding. The Nelson River Sturgeon Board (NRSB) has two management goals: to encourage communities to harvest less of the breeding stock and to increase sturgeon numbers by hatching, rearing and releasing fingerlings. This project will require resources to raise awareness of the issues among fishers, elders, leaders, schools and students and the general public in the NRSB communities, and to mobilize their commitment to these initiatives.

Nelson River Sturgeon Board

Development of SAR and Critical Habitat Database and Related Capacity Building within the Siksika First Nation

Siksika Land Management has initiated a project to document local species at risk (SAR) and their critical habitat and to raise awareness within the community. The project includes traditional ecological knowledge, a literature review, and field surveys. The community will be informed of the project and about local SAR initiatives and encouraged to participate as volunteers. The long–term goal of this project is to develop a current database of SAR populations and critical habitats and a list of recommendations for future SAR recovery initiatives.

Siksika Land Management

Mapping Lake Sturgeon Habitat on the North Saskatchewan River Using Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge from Cumberland House Cree Nation

Through a unique partnership between the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN) and the Cumberland House Cree Nation (CHCN), recipients will map Lake Sturgeon habitat in the Saskatchewan River Delta using Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge gathered from local First Nation elders and fishers. Research data will assist non–government and government agencies to manage sturgeon populations and protect critical habitat.

Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations

Implementation of an Aboriginal Engagement Strategy for Saskatchewan Species at Risk Pathfinder

The Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN), operating as the Species at Risk Pathfinder for Saskatchewan, will build knowledge and raise awareness of species at risk (SAR) processes and identify opportunities for the recovery, protection and management of SAR and their habitats, specifically as regards Lake Sturgeon and Woodland Caribou.

Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations

Lesser Slave Lake First Nations Species at Risk: Woodland Caribou and Yellow Rail.

The Lesser Slave Lake First Nations and the Fossil Water Corporation are working together to enhance the conservation of Woodland Caribou and Yellow Rail populations within five First Nation communities and traditional–use lands. The project includes gathering traditional ecological knowledge, building capacity within First Nation communities, collecting new scientific knowledge through aerial and field surveys, and preparing a comprehensive conservation and restoration plan.

Lesser Slave Lake Indian Regional Council

Traditional Ecological Knowledge of Shortjaw Cisco Coregonus zenithicus in Great Slave Lake, NWT

Under this project, research is focused on gathering traditional knowledge of cisco diversity and habitat in Yellowknife Bay (Weledeh–Cheh) and Great Slave Lake (Tinde’e), particularly for the Shortjaw Cisco. Little is known about the biology or ecology of the species in this water body. The occurrence of the Shortjaw Cisco in a relatively undisturbed ecosystem provides a unique opportunity to contribute to baseline knowledge of this species. This project will contribute to cisco management in general and to capacity building with the Yellowknife Dene First Nation for participating in the implementation of SARA.

Yellowknives Dene First Nation, Lands and Environment

Huu–ay–aht Abalone Recovery Plan

The Huu–ay–aht First Nation is a leader among British Columbia coastal First Nations in supporting and developing a community–based abalone recovery strategy. Our people, along with the Bamfield Community School and the Bamfield Marine Sciences Center (BMSC), collaborate closely in the Bamfield Huu–ay–aht Community Abalone Project (BHCAP). The objective of this project is to continue and promote the Abalone Coastwatch Program, and hold two workshops with other coastal First Nations in British Columbia to network and exchange knowledge and experience.

Huu–ay–aht First Nation

Increasing the Capacity of Nuu–chah–nulth Nations to Participate in Species–at–risk Recovery Activities

The project will employ an Aboriginal species–at–risk coordinator to build Nuu–chah–nulth capacity at the individual, regional, and Nation level to better participate in species–at–risk recovery. Project tasks will include coordinating species–at–risk research; liaising between parties to ensure Nuu–chah–nulth Nations are informed and contributing to the planning and recovery processes; coordinating the inclusion of Aboriginal traditional knowledge and traditional ecological knowledge in conservation and recovery processes; conducting aquatic species–at–risk outreach with schools, communities, fisheries guardians and local tourism operators; and developing related information materials.

Nuu–chah–nulth Tribal Council

Species–at–Risk Outreach Programs

The purpose of this project is to get more knowledge of species at risk and the importance of their habitats into the local school and community. The short– and long–term results of this project are to keep the local school community learning about species at risk and the importance of their habitats. Field trips will give all those who attend a better understanding of species at risk and the importance of the habitats via wetland walks and wildlife art, etc. Groups of children will be transported to the Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve Society to participate in a variety of activities regarding species at risk and the importance of their habitat.

Seabird Island Band

Gitga’at Cetacean Critical Habitat Identification and Protection

Threatened Humpback and Killer Whales are vulnerable to numerous human stressors. Current and proposed industrial developments within Gitga’at territory risk exacerbating many of these stressors within critical habitats of these species. Our project will contribute to the protection and recovery of Humpback and Killer Whales by improving our understanding of critical habitats, quantifying the risks associated with increased marine traffic and developing options and recommendations for enhanced protection measures.

Gitga'at Lands and Resources Stewardship Society

Nechako Juvenile White Sturgeon – Assessing Habitat Use/Preference and Monitoring Survival and Distribution

Thirty hatchery–reared juvenile Nechako White Sturgeon will be implanted with tags emitting unique acoustic signals prior to their release into the river in the spring of 2009. CSTC crews will subsequently monitor the tagged individuals to observe their dispersal behaviour and the habitats they utilize. The tags have a signaling life of approximately 120 days, and monitoring will continue into late summer. Information collected will allow for an estimation of the survival rate for this group of fish, as well as the identification of important and critical habitats for this life stage of White Sturgeon, which will allow for the eventual protection and management these areas. Understanding the rate of survival of these fish will allow for any adjustments to the rearing and release strategies that may be necessary to improve survival rates.

Carrier Sekani Tribal Council (CSTC)

Kluane Baikal Sedge Inventory Project

The federal government has initiated recovery planning for Baikal Sedge and requires the support of First Nations to prepare a recovery strategy and action plan and to lay out recovery activities to ensure the future of the species. Very little is known about this species, including where it may be found within our traditional territory. Very few species in Yukon are listed under the Species at Risk Act (SARA) and recovery planning under the legislation is new to all jurisdictions (federal, territorial, First Nation). First Nations in Yukon have many other interests and work to do, so in order for us to be able to participate in recovery planning and action for the species, we seek support to raise awareness, foster participation and build additional capacity for inter–jurisdictional species conservation under SARA.

Kluane First Nation

Carcross/Tagish First Nation Baikal Sedge Research and Inventory

The federal government has initiated recovery planning for Baikal Sedge and requires the support of First Nations to prepare a recovery strategy and action plan and to lay out recovery activities to ensure the future of the species. Very little is known about this species, including where it may be found within our traditional territory. Very few species in Yukon are listed under the Species at Risk Act (SARA) and recovery planning under the legislation is new to all jurisdictions (federal, territorial, First Nation). First Nations in Yukon have many other interests and work to do, so in order for us to be able to participate in recovery planning and action for the species, we seek support to raise awareness, foster participation and build additional capacity for inter–jurisdictional species conservation under SARA.

Carcross/Tagish First Nation

Champagne and Aishihik Baikal Sedge Conservation Project

The federal government has initiated recovery planning for Baikal Sedge and requires the support of First Nations to prepare a recovery strategy and action plan and to lay out recovery activities to ensure the future of the species. Very little is known about this species, including where it may be found within our traditional territory. Very few species in Yukon are listed under the Species at Risk Act (SARA) and recovery planning under the legislation is new to all jurisdictions (federal, territorial, First Nation). First Nations in Yukon have many other interests and work to do, so in order for us to be able to participate in recovery planning and action for the species, we seek support to raise awareness, foster participation and build additional capacity for inter–jurisdictional species conservation under SARA.

Champagne and Aishihik First Nations

Terrestrial Species–at–risk Mapping, Inventory and Restoration Capacity Building for T’Sou–ke Nation in Traditional Territory

The project goal is for T’Sou–ke to locate critical habitat of Garry Oak ecosystem plant species at risk and use a geographic information system (GIS) technology to expand the T’Sou–ke’s database as well as gain capacity in terrestrial wildlife species identification and convert an abandoned greenhouse to a plant species–at–risk nursery. All this will be accomplished with traditional knowledge and guidance from T’Sou–ke elders with youth involvement and awareness–raising about the species within the T’Sou–ke community.

T'Sou–ke Nation

Multi–jurisdictional Restoration and Community Education on Coastal Dune Landforms at TIXEN (Cordova Shore)

The Cordova Shore dune ecosystem contains significant remnants of rare coastal sand dunes and habitats of great conservation interest, with a characteristic and rich flora and fauna. Cordova Shore comprises the largest contiguous dune system in southern British Columbia and is one of the best examples of an intact dune system in the province. The Cordova Shore ecosystem is important to the Tsawout community for traditional and cultural reasons. The shore offers many educational opportunities for community members and an important educational resource for the Saanich Tribal School. Dunes at Cordova Shore are being severely degraded by uncontrolled public access, which also facilitates the introduction and range extension of invasive species, such as Scotch Broom. Collaboration by the three jurisdictions offers an important opportunity to protect and restore natural and cultural features of this rare ecosystem, and to tell an important story to the many publics who use and enjoy the area.

Tsawout First Nation

Habitat Conservation and Enhancement for Species at Risk on Selected Nicola Tribal Association Band Reserves

The Nicola Tribal Association Band member reserves and Lower Nicola Indian Band reserves represent a biologically diverse range of environments that provide important habitat for a variety of rare and endangered species. The main threats to these species are habitat loss or degradation, or human–caused mortality. The primary goal of the project is to increase First Nations awareness of species at risk through presentations to First Nations schools. In addition to outreach and education, Lewis's Woodpecker habitat management strategies will be developed for sites currently occupied by this species in order to ensure key habitat characteristics are conserved.

Nicola Tribal Association

Sharing Heiltsuk Knowledge on Marine Mammals at Risk

The main goal of the project is the development of a sharing arrangement or MOU between the Heiltsuk and Fisheries and Oceans Canada for Heiltsuk knowledge regarding marine mammals (Species at Risk Act (SARA) and COSEWIC species only). The project will utilize the Aboriginal (Heiltsuk) traditional knowledge about their marine environment and the marine mammals that reside in it.

Heiltsuk Fisheries Program

Haisla Humpback and Killer Whale Conservation and Recovery Project

A Haisla First Nation initiative that began in the spring of 2009 as part of Environment Canada's Aboriginal Funds for Species at Risk will see project participants document individual whales, behavioural activities and prey species (where possible) within Haisla territorial waters. Information is submitted to Fisheries and Oceans Canada for inclusion in a coastwide database. A public outreach program is also being performed to raise awareness of the threats and challenges to Humpback and Killer Whale recovery along the north coast of British Columbia. Information gathered from the project will support recovery planning for these species coastwide.

Haisla Fisheries Commission

Protecting Species at Risk in Locatee Lands/Ecommunity Project

The project will protect species at risk through ongoing securement protection and fencing of the last remaining Black Cottonwood–dominated riparian habitat in the Penticton area on lands located on the Pentiction Indian Reserve bordering the Okanagan River Channel and the City of Penticton. The overall project represents approximately 100 ha of lands out of an estimated 500 ha of Black Cottonwood riparian habitat remaining in the entire South Okanagan Smilkameen Conservation Program area. The request is for assistance to protect 54.6 ha through leasehold securement. The project will improve, by link fencing, the habitat of approximately 400 m of Black Cottonwood bordering a bike and walking path on the River Chanel Dyke adjacent to the City of Penticton. It will also protect sensitive Yellow–breasted Chat and Western Screech Owl nesting and perch habitats from human intrusions, including risk of fire during the dry months, and Great Basin Gopher Snake and Great Basin Spadefoot Toad underground habitat in open grass field, rose and shrub habitat areas.

Okanagan Indian Educational Resources Society (En'owkin Centre)

Collecting Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge on Species at Risk by the South Okanagan Similkameen Traditional Knowledge Joint Committee

The project proposes to collect Aboriginal traditional knowledge (ATK) and advise on two species at risk (SARs). The project will develop a conservation planning guidelines document for use by Syilx harvestors in Bitterroot root, berry and medicine harvesting areas. The project proposes to generate a model for SAR conservation planning for high–use harvest areas, as well as to produce quality ATK data on two SAR species to assist the COSEWIC review listing process by an ATK process intended to enhance the scientific review of information.

Okanagan Indian Educational Resources Society (En'owkin Centre)

Species at Risk Act Curriculum Implementation for Haida Gwaii Youth

Haida participation in species–at–risk (SAR) planning is key to project success on Haida Gwaii. Yet a comprehensive understanding of SAR and the opportunities associated with wildlife work are rare. Haida youth are the immediate future labour pool that will either engage in SAR–led initiatives, or unknowingly ignore them altogether. Without adequate planning and capacity building, the proposed species likely face extinction within the lifespan of these same Haida youth. We propose to build upon our successes both as Council of the Haida Nation technical support and Haida Gwaii educators, and bring these species in a curriculum package to Haida Gwaii secondary students through a combination of in–class and field modules, fully designed and led by experienced staff, in partnership with a number of organizations.

Secretariat of the Haida Nation

A Biodiversity Conservation Strategy for the Ktunaxa Traditional Territory: Building Cultural Values into Species–at–risk Recovery Planning

The overall purpose of this project is to develop a biodiversity conservation strategy that incorporates Ktunaxa cultural values into a multi–species, ecosystem–based approach to recovery planning for species at risk. This approach will build Ktunaxa capacity at the staff level through on–the–job training and at the community level by raising awareness of species at risk, priority recovery actions and the role of Aboriginal ecological knowledge in recovery actions. The project will be managed under the auspices of the Ktunaxa Fish and Wildlife Management Committee, a tripartite group that includes the Ktunaxa Nation Council, British Columbia and Canada.

Ktunaxa Nation Council

Species–at–risk Inventory in a Semi–urban Landscape on the Shuswap Indian Reserve, Invermere, British Columbia

The goal is to provide species–at–risk inventory data to inform integrated planning related to the potential development of reserve lands of the Shuswap Indian Band in the Invermere area. This work will refine identified wildlife movement routes and habitat patches on reserve lands. The project will also include capacity building within the band.

Kinbasket Development Corporation

Northern St'at'imc Species–at–risk Assessment, Inventory and Habitat Protection Initiative

The Lillooet Tribal Council (LTC) will contract a project coordinator to conduct an assessment of the COSEWIC–listed species within the reserves and traditional St'at'imc territory. Information will be compiled and form the basis for a LTC Species at Risk Act (SARA) strategic plan. There will be an interview process conducted with community resource persons and outreach with various recovery teams and conservation groups and agencies. The ultimate objective is to provide long–term conservation measures for all SARA species in the St'at'imc territory.

Lillooet Tribal Council

LNIB Land Use Planning for Species at Risk Habitat

Many First Nations communities face increasing land use challenges in terms of commercial, residential and resource developments. Increased development activity on reserve has the potential to impact environmental values and in particular species at risk (SARs). The Nicola Indian Band (LNIB) is in the initial stages of its community and land use planning process. The LNIB’s Natural Resource Department proposes to develop a map of traditional ecological critical SAR habitats and other environmental values with supporting strategy documentation for inclusion in the LNIB's land use planning. The project is expected to protect critical SAR habitat as well as limit potential conflicts by incorporating a range of community values in the band's land use planning.

Lower Nicola Indian Band

Kwanlin Dun Baikal Sedge Conservation Project

The federal government has initiated recovery planning for Baikal Sedge and requires the support of First Nations to prepare a recovery strategy and action plan and to lay out recovery activities to ensure the future of the species. Very little is known about this species, including where it may be found within our traditional territory. Very few species in Yukon are listed under the Species at Risk Act (SARA) and recovery planning under the legislation is new to all jurisdictions (federal, territorial, First Nation). First Nations in Yukon have many other interests and work to do, so in order for us to be able to participate in recovery planning and action for the species, we seek support to raise awareness, foster participation and build additional capacity for inter–jurisdictional species conservation under SARA.

Kwanlin Dun First Nation

Field Assessment of Species at Risk Associated with Burrowing Owl Habitat

First Nations communities are continuing to expand their role in natural resource planning and management in British Columbia. The Upper Nicola Band (UNB) promotes a holistic view of natural resources in its planning processes. As such, overall ecosystem health and function is of primary concern. The UNB proposes to collect traditional ecological knowledge (TEK), review existing literature, and complete field assessments supporting the review and refinement of suitability modeling for four species listed under the Species at Risk Act (SARA) (American Badger, Great Basin Spadefoot Toad, Long–billed Curlew). TEK will provide valuable local and traditional knowledge regarding critical habitats and other related species. A literature review and field assessments are intended to gather information regarding the current status of available habitat, as well as recovery strategies and management recommendations. A more complete understanding of current available habitat as well as recommendations from literature and TEK will provide a more complete view of ecosystem health, and support UNB's ongoing planning processes.

Upper Nicola Band

Splatsin First Nation Species–at–risk Grassland Surveys

The Splatsin First Nation has initiated an inventory of species at risk on Indian reserve lands to support the requirements of the Species at Risk Act (SARA). This project will inventory and map known burrows, hibernacula (dens), foraging, and nesting habitats of American Badgers, Long–billed Curlews, Great Basin Gopher Snakes and potential habitat of other grassland species such as Pocket Gophers on Splatsin Reserve lands. Anecdotal sightings of other species, including those at risk such as Bobolinks will also be recorded. The project will also record the presence or absence of these species and their associated habitat on Splatsin Reserve lands. The findings will be summarized and management plans for these species will be generated to outline measures and recommendations that will mitigate impacts to preserve and protect these SARs and other grassland species.

Splatsin First Nation

Caribou, Culture and Conservation: A Traditional Ecological Knowledge Study with the Dunne–za Peoples of Northeastern British Columbia

Within the southern part of the West Moberly First Nations' Treaty Territory are eight caribou herds without protection plans. As part of the Mountain Dunne–za Planning Initiative, the Nation is carrying out a traditional ecological knowledge study in order to prepare the Nation for entering into a process for establishing recovery strategies and action plans that will firmly establish its culture for today's members and for generations to come.

West Moberly First Nations

Habitat Conservation Management for the Great Basin Gopher Snake and Western Rattlesnake

We will concentrate on creating management guidelines for the Western Rattlesnake and Great Basin Gopher Snake on the Osoyoos Indian Reserve’s 225–acre Nk'Mip Resort site. We will also complete a plan for exclusion fencing, travel culverts, snake cover and water features to ensure they are integrated into yearly maintenance schedules and future site planning for the resort.

Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre

Metlakatla Abalone Aggregation Stud

The Metlakatla Abalone Restoration Initiative is exploring localized aggregations of adult abalone as a potential tool for rehabilitating abalone populations in the Metlakatla territory. In the spring, we will create local aggregations of abalone and during the entire fiscal year we will engage the public and raise awareness about the conservation concerns currently facing the Northern Abalone. Through outreach and education, the project also hopes to build support for community stewardship and local monitoring and enforcement initiatives.

Metlakatla Band

Metlakatla Seabird Recovery Study

Aboriginal fishers in the Prince Rupert fishing region will monitor how, where and when federal species at risk (Short–tailed Albatross, Marbled Murrelet, Pink–footed Shearwater, Black–footed Albatross and Ancient Murrelet) are incidentally caught in gillnet and longline fisheries that are under Aboriginal management. The monitoring data will be used to adaptively manage for incidental take.

Metlakatla Band

Nechako White Sturgeon – Spawning Site Monitoring

We will work with other members of the Nechako White Sturgeon Recovery Initiative's (NWSRI's) Technical Working Group to monitor White Sturgeon presence and spawning activity in the Nechako River's reach known to serve as the Nechako's endangered White Sturgeon population's only spawning habitat. CSTC personnel will work to monitor the reach to assess whether or not sturgeon spawns there. If they do, the specific sites they select will be identified, and attempts will be made to capture eggs and larva to assess the level of survivorship they experience at the site. The data collected will contribute to the initiative's understanding of the factors contributing to the stock's recruitment failure, and future potential opportunities to restore critical habitats suspected to be impaired.

Carrier Sekani Tribal Council (CSTC)

Heiltsuk Abalone and Sea Otter Stewardship Project

The project aims to prevent the continued decline of Northern Abalone and to foster an ecosystem–based approach to Sea Otter population recovery on the Central Coast of British Columbia. This is done by community education and involvement in abalone and Sea Otter stewardship, monitoring established abalone sites, surveillance and coast–watch activities, and maintaining a strong regional network with fishers, community members and area operators.

Heiltsuk Fisheries Program

Northern Mountain Caribou Harvest Reporting Strategies for First Nations

A gathering of wildlife managers from affected First Nations to discuss harvest reporting is proposed. This two–day workshop will be an opportunity for First Nation governments to learn from one another, discuss challenges to collecting comprehensive and accurate harvest data from their citizens, and strategize how to obtain an accurate and meaningful picture of harvest without compromising traditional values.

Carcross/Tagish First Nation

Collection, Mapping and Archiving of Métis Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge in British Columbia

The project will commence the population of the species–at–risk database and mapping tool developed in 2008–2009 with Aboriginal Funds for Species at Risk project funding. The SAR database and mapping tools are housed at the University of British Columbia–Okanagan. The project will be conducted through research agreements authorized under the Métis Nation British Columbia – Natural Resource Act to ensure ethical collection and confidentiality of traditional knowledge holders’ information. The SAR database and mapping technology will be showcased to one First Nation community as a first attempt to transfer the technology to other Aboriginal groups.

Métis Nation BC

Cariboo Region Badger Recovery Plan on Canoe Creek Indian Reserve Lands – Aboriginal Capacity Building Fund (ACBF)

The Canoe Creek Indian Band, the British Columbia Ministry of Environment and Thompson River University will be continuing on with the Cariboo Region American Badger Project. Our goal is to evaluate all the work that has been conducted since 2003 and pursue current recovery strategies with ongoing research projects to identify badger recovery and mortality rates. Through continuing research, we will revisit identified badger habitat areas and trap and capture a select number of badgers and place radio transmitters on them to monitor their behavioural movements through their territorial environment. Badgers are known to travel in an area with a 200–mile radius or more. This project will help address the questions of how the encroachment of human activity and domestic animal activities are affecting the mortality rate of these red–listed species–at–risk candidates.

Canoe Creek Indian Band

Semiahmoo Biophysical Inventory Survey of Vertebrates, Invertebrates and Plants

The Semiahmoo First Nation will hire consultants to complete a research and literature review and report, and to amalgamate information to cover all of their content related to identified species and habitats on Semiahmoo lands and the traditional territory of Semiahmoo Bay. A comprehensive survey will be completed of the Semiahmoo lands, water and air to inventory presence of species and their habitats (or not) and make recommendations for conservation, restoration and preservation of species and their habitats. Interviews with traditional knowledge holders and Aboriginal ecological knowledge holders to gather information complete mapping of information and record interviews will also be conducted.

Semiahmoo First Nation

Discussion Forum of Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge and Its Linkage to Upper Fraser White Sturgeon and Interior Fraser Coho: Protocols, Methods and Inventory of Existing Databases and Information

The Upper Fraser Conservation Alliance will lead a project with the Upper Fraser First Nations, Fisheries and Oceans Canada and experts in Aboriginal traditional knowledge (ATK) to host two discussion forums focused on the establishment of protocols for the inclusion of ATK related to two threatened aquatic species in the Upper Fraser: Nechako White Sturgeon and Interior Fraser Coho. The results and experience from the first forum will be applied by community fisheries representatives in UFFCA First Nations communities. The results of the community work will be shared at a second discussion forum for the benefit of all participants in the first workshop, according to the established ATK protocols.

Upper Fraser Fisheries Conservation Alliance

Gathering Our Knowledge for a Better Tomorrow

The project centers on the creation of a more holistic approach to species–at–risk (SAR) management through the integration of Aboriginal knowledge. As a first step in creating this more holistic approach, this project begins by gathering Aboriginal knowledge of targeted SARs, species relationships, habitat needs and stewardship strategies in a series of 20 interviews with community elders from the Coldwater, Cook's Ferry, and Siska bands and synthesizing this data for future development of community–based management strategies.

Esh–kn–am Cultural Resources Management Services

Songhees Nation Tool Development for Strategic Planning for the Protection of the Garry Oak Ecosystem

At the current rate of decline, time is running out for us to firmly grasp our remaining resources and to develop an action splan to address the need for effective policies and laws for land protection and resource management. The time has come for us to work together to restore a culturally significant ecosystem for the benefit of generations to come. This project, along with the First Nations Land Management Act will assist in the protection and restoration of important resources within the Garry Oak ecosystem.

Songhees First Nation

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