title: A Historical Analysis of the Substantive Principles of Fundamental Justice under Section 7 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms

contributor:
Bowles, Margaret E (author)
King, Doug (thesis advisor)
(Degree granting institution)

rights: This work is completed in entirety by Margaret E. Bowles. All rights are reserved to the information provided within this document.

subject:
Fundamental justice
Thesis
Supreme Court
Canada
Charter

abstract: The Principles of Fundamental Justice ascribed under section 7 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms are a commonly misunderstood and an ambiguous area of Canadian law. Within the Canadian context, the Supreme Court’s interpretations of these principles give them incredible weight and significance, while giving little definition or explanation. Drawing on case law from the Supreme Court of Canada, this thesis examines the Supreme Court’s interpretation of substantive principles of fundamental justice for the purpose of evaluating their importance and use within Canadian law. The Court is reluctant to provide precise definitions of these principles for the purpose of increased interpretive power in the future. Due to the Charter’s relatively young age and the emergence of significant topics under section 7, the Court denies furthering what the principals of fundamental justice are in order to better protect the right to life, liberty and security of person in the future.


title: A Review of Intimate Partner Violence in Canada

type: thesis Text

contributor:
Barlage, Samantha (author)
King, Doug (thesis advisor)

subject:
Intimate partner violence
Women and abuse
Legislation
Canada
Domestic violence
Thesis

abstract: Intimate partner violence (IPV) occurs frequently in Canada, with 35 percent of all women experiencing IPV at some point in their lifetime. Through the consideration of historical social and legal factors, a background for the prevalence of IPV in Canadian society is established. An examination of the current state based on statistics and research is also considered. An analysis on the responses of the Federal Government and some provincial provisions is also conducted. The resulting suggestions concern government spending, educational provisions, and law enforcement practices.


title: Adolescents in Sports: the All-Delinquent Team

contributor: Mount Royal University (Degree granting institution)

rights: Copyright Colm McCabe. This thesis may be made available for loan and limited copying in accordance with the Copyright Act, RSC 1985, c C-42.

subject:
Sports participation
Adolescents
Thesis
Social bond theory
At-risk youth
Intervention

abstract:
Analyzed through the lens of social-bond theory, this thesis examines the relationship between sports participation and delinquency among adolescents. The purpose of this thesis is to better understand whether sports can serve as an effective intervention strategy for policy makers, government agencies and criminal justice branches that deal directly with at risk-youth or offenders who can benefit from sports-related programs. Through the use of a meta-analysis methodological design, the findings uncovered through common literature will reflect the extent to which social-bond theory can sufficiently explain delinquency among athletes.

Traditionally, sports-participation and physical activity have been connected to prosocial stereotypes and the belief that adolescents will develop character-building morals. Although many situations including sports-participation are mainly positive across most facets, there is further evidence to suggest that unintended, antisocial-developing consequences can arise from participation in sports-related activities. Jock identity and unstructured socializing were highlighted as major factors for delinquency among athletes, whereas the pedagogical sports-environment serves as a possible deterrence model for delinquency. With further extensive research into this topic, the development of a pedagogical sports model can provide more athletes with an exceptional prosocial experience. Similarly, sports participation and sports-related intervention strategies can be utilized to address and combat youth-crime.


title: A Case of Seduction: Sexual Violence and the Law in Southern Alberta, 1922

subject: Law Seduction Rape Alberta Women

abstract: The Phillips seduction case, tried in a Lethbridge, Alberta court in 1922, reveals that the extent to which the law of seduction empowered women to pursue justice in cases of sexual assault was limited by the ways in which patriarchal society regulated women’s sexuality. May Phillips was a white, American-immigrant teenager living with her family in the Wrentham sectional house in 1922. She was repeatedly assaulted by John Johnson, the forty-year-old section foreman. In court, both crown and defense characterized Phillips and Johnson in ways that reflect patterns present in other seduction cases. The degree to which May Phillips and John Johnson fit social expectations of, respectively, the victim and assailant of seduction was a key aspect of the case.  The law against seduction, in which precedents were steeped in highly gendered and patriarchal notions of morality and social purity, only protected women who would be understood by the court as deserving of protection. Establishing moral superiority over the perpetrator was crucial. Although pregnancy and abortion were often common to seduction cases the victim was required to prove that she was previously chaste.


title: Availability and Accessibility of Community Based Services for Family Violence Victims: A Comparative Case Study of Trochu, Alberta and Calgary, Alberta

rights: Copyright Camille Cunningham, unless otherwise noted. This thesis may be made available for loan and limited copying in accordance with the Copyright Act, RSC 1985, c C-42.

subject:
Family violence
Community services
Comparative case study methodology
Calgary, Alberta
Trochu, Alberta

abstract: Using a comparison case study method, the goal of this undergraduate honours project was to compile a resource inventory of the community based services for victims of family violence specific to a Southern Alberta rural town to those in an urban area. This topic is important to examine because rates of family violence are higher among rural populations than in urban areas (Statistics Canada, 2016, p. 43; Northcott, 2011, p. 10). Due to the unique nature of family violence criminality and victimization, victims require additional supports beyond those provided by the criminal justice system. Community based agencies offer various resources that may be used in helping individuals cope with, address, and/or escape situations involving family violence. The resource inventory includes and compares the community based services available to victims of family violence in the rural community of Trochu, Alberta, to those available in the urban center of Calgary, Alberta. In short, while there was no difference in the community based services available to family violence victims, differences were in the accessibility of community services were apparent in terms of: geography and transportation options; diversity of services; and the technology used by the agencies.


title: Exploring Undergraduate Perceptions of Meaning Making and Social Media in their Learning

subject:
Social media
Higher education
Undergraduate learning
Mixed methods
Educational technology

abstract: Those concerned with teaching and learning in higher education and the Net generation’s perspectives on and uses of technology must address calls to move beyond the digital native debate (Bennett & Maton, 2010; Kennedy, Judd, Dalgarno, & Waycott, 2010) by asking students directly what they see as a meaningful part of their learning. This study aims to move beyond the digital native debate by developing research-informed understandings of the ways in which Net generation students may perceive technologies, specifically social media, to be a meaningful part of their undergraduate learning. The research questions guiding this study include: (RQ1) In what ways do undergraduate learners from different disciplines view social media to be a meaningful part of their university learning? (RQ2) What characteristics of social media do undergraduate learners see as contributing to their meaning making during their university learning? This study uses a social constructivist approach, thereby employing two main premises: learners actively construct their own knowledge, and social interactions are an important part of knowledge construction (Woolfolk, Winne, Perry, & Shapka, 2010, pp. 343-344). The research design is a mixed methods research (MMR) methodology, a methodological approach where a combination of methods is intentionally used to best address the research questions (Creswell, 2008; Creswell, 2015). This study’s MMR design involved a first phase qualitative component of intensive, semi-structured interviews with 30 undergraduate students enrolled in full-time studies at the University of Alberta, a large, Canadian, research-intensive university – with ten students from each of the three disciplinary areas of 1) humanities and social sciences, 2) health sciences, and 3) natural sciences and engineering, analyzed using a generic qualitative approach (Merriam, 2009) incorporating constructivist grounded theory techniques (Charmaz, 2014). The second phase quantitative component was comprised of undergraduate students across disciplines with survey responses (N = 679) regarding their perspectives on and uses of social media technology in their university learning. This phase included two pilot surveys conducted before the final survey was distributed to ensure the reliability and validity of the instrument developed. Survey responses were collected electronically via SurveyMonkey, and analyzed via descriptive statistics. The findings in this study shed new insights into student perspectives and uses of social media, and the variety of ways in which undergraduates intentionally chose (or, chose not) to incorporate social media into their university learning in meaningful ways. The interviews provide a detailed picture of undergraduate perspectives regarding the specific ways in which social media can help and hinder learning, comprising what students consider as a double-edged sword. Student perspectives and descriptions formed key recurring themes, which emerged into several core characteristics of social media, as well as core categories of meaning making in undergraduate university learning. Within the qualitative interviews and the open-ended survey results, there is an overarching theme of social media as a double-edged sword that both informs and distracts, having the potential to both help and hinder learning. Together, the qualitative and quantitative results demonstrate that several contextual relationships exist, including an important relationship between the particular ways of meaning making identified and the specific social media technologies undergraduates use for their university learning. For those concerned with social media in higher education, these results show how factors such as age and digital native claims should not be seen as primary, deterministic elements of technology use. Rather than taking an approach founded upon technological determinism, the idea of a generational zeitgeist should be considered, where learning context and social media affordances become key.

abstract: This research was supported by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.


title: Healing Lodges: A Strong Predictor Of Success In Canada & Recommendations Moving Forward

contributor: Tomaszewski, E. Andreas (thesis advisor)

rights: Copyright Taryn Marylin Hamilton. This thesis may be made available for loan and limited copying in accordance with the Copyright Act, RSC 1985, c C-42.

subject:
Cultural relevance
Healing lodge
Indigenous offenders
Recidivism
Restorative justice
Corrections

abstract: In response to the vast overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in Canadian corrections, the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) developed initiatives that are intended to provide Indigenous offenders with culturally appropriate services to address their unique needs and reduce the number of Indigenous offenders in corrections. There is strong statistical evidence that validate the notion that culturally specific healing programs can improve the recidivism rates of Indigenous offenders post-release. In turn, this suggests that Indigenous spiritual healing has the capacity to address risk factors and prevent high recidivism rates (Milward, 2011, p. 47). However, healing lodges lack the capacity to effectively deliver culturally appropriate programming to offenders. This systematic literature review examines relevant articles and studies that confirm the effectiveness of healing lodges on Indigenous offenders risk of recidivism. As promising healing lodge sound in terms of deterring offenders away from crime, healing lodges are under-funded, under-staffed, and lack appropriate resources to effectively administer culturally specific programs to Indigenous offenders who need it most. It is recommended that the CSC allocate government funding to support such initiatives and provide greater resources to Indigenous offenders in the system to ensure healing lodges are being utilized. It is recommended that legislature and policy makers revise the Corrections and Conditional Release Act and that the CSC provides Elders, Indigenous communities and Indigenous offenders with more freedom to effectively facilitate traditional healing methods.


title: Policing Violence: Royal and Community Perspectives in Medieval France

subject: Medieval Gender Policing Homicide Violence

abstract:
Violence is, and was, a destructive interpersonal act that occurs both on the large scale through wars, and small scale between two or several people. In medieval France, under the right circumstances, violence was simultaneously policed, and used to police society, especially at the interpersonal level. Men, women, the young, and old were all victims and perpetrators of violence. However, gender and age were significant factors in the legitimization of violence. Men would engage in interpersonal disputes in self-defense, to maintain their honour and reputation, as well as to maintain social order. Women were more likely to be the victims of sexual assault perpetrated by men, but the severity of their attacks was dependent on their age and sexual maturity. These distinctions illustrate that there were some women who were more valued in society than others, for example virgins were pure and had value for marriages.
It is the purpose of this thesis to demonstrate that there were legitimate and acceptable forms of violence that could be used to police society. While murder/homicide and sexual violence were deemed to be capital offences, among local communities, where dominant cultural norms superseded “the law”, violence was sometimes considered a productive social force. It could be used to reinforce social values and maintain power structures, especially patriarchy.


title: Hollow Water, Manitoba: An Explanatory Case Study of the Area, its Community, and the Holistic Circle Healing Program

contributor:
Huber, Morgan (author)
Tavcer, D. Scharie (thesis advisor)
(Degree granting institution)

subject:
Criminal justice
Community holistic circle healing
Restorative justice

abstract:
The focus of this Honours thesis revolves around the over-representation of Canada’s Aboriginal population in the criminal justice system compared with the rest of the population. This Honours thesis will examine some attempts to deal with this over-representation undertaken by Corrections Services Canada, in particular, the Community Holistic Circle Healing (CHCH) program at Hollow Water, Manitoba. In addition to addressing some of the causes of violent and non-violent criminal behaviour among the population of Hollow Water, this Honours thesis will include an explanatory case study of the program implemented at Hollow Water from 1984 to the present in an effort to address crime. The case study will attempt to arrive at some conclusions that can be used in the future to address crime, its causes, and the many consequences of Aboriginal over-representation within the Canadian criminal justice system. Furthermore, this Honours thesis will reflect on the successful approach undertaken at Hollow Water and make recommendations for future correctional practices.
Exploring this community and program is important in order to address issues of equality and social justice, namely over-representation, among those in contact with Canada’s criminal justice system. It provides us with insight into the restorative justice approach used to holistically address the various crimes and corresponding causes and consequences that affected every person in this community. This Honours thesis also addresses the importance of incorporating multi-cultural views on justice and healing into the existing and adversarial criminal justice system in an effort to reduce over-representation and improve equality with regard to Canada’s Aboriginal population.
There is not an abundance of research and review of the CHCH program or similar programs and their impact on the over-representation of Aboriginals within the Canadian justice system, nor is there much written about the effects of such programs on recidivism rates of offenders who have participated in them. This thesis is significant as it contributes to the existing literature of Aboriginal justice and healing initiatives. The CHCH program at Hollow Water also represents a successful co-operation between the court system, Correctional Services Canada and the members of the Aboriginal healing community. It also represents a correctional approach whereby a reduction in the rates of incarcerated Aboriginals is possible. Recidivism rates of the offenders involved in the CHCH program are also offered in order to illustrate the success of the program.


title: The Invention of Good Games: Understanding Learning Design in Commercial Videogames

subject:
Video games
Game studies
Instructional design
Serious games
Educational technology
Education

abstract: This work sought to help inform the design of educational digital games by the studying the design of successful commercial videogames. The main thesis question was: How does a commercially and critically successful modern video game support the learning that players must accomplish in order to succeed in the game (i.e. get to the end or win)? This work takes a two-pronged approach to supporting the main argument, which is that the reason we can learn about designing educational games by studying commercial games is that people already learn from games and the best ones are already quite effective at teaching players what they need to learn in order to succeed in the game. The first part of the research establishes a foundation for the argument, namely that accepted pedagogy can be found in existing commercial games. The second part of the work proposes new methods for analysing games that can uncover mechanisms used to support learning in games which can be employed even if those games were not originally designed as educational objects. In order to support the claim that ‘good’ commercial videogames already embody elements of sound pedagogy an explicit connection is made between game design and formally accepted theory and models in teaching and learning. During this phase of the work a significant concern was raised regarding the classification of games as ‘good’, so a new methodology using Borda Counts was devised and tested that combines various disjoint subjective reviews and rankings from disparate sources in non-trivial manner that accounts for relative standings. Complementary to that was a meta-analysis of the criteria used to select games chosen as subjects of study as reported by researchers. Then, several games were chosen using this new ranking method and analysed using another new methodology that was designed for this work, called Instructional Ethology. This is a new methodology for game design deconstruction and analysis that would allows the extraction of information about mechanisms used to support learning. This methodology combines behavioural and structural analysis to examine how commercial games support learning by examining the game itself from the perspective of what the game does. Further, this methodology can be applied to the analysis of any software system and offers a new approach to studying any interactive software. The results of the present study offered new insights into how several highly successful commercial games support players while they learn what they must learn in order to succeed in those games. A new design model was proposed, known as the 'Magic Bullet' that allows designers to visualize the relative proportions of potential learning in a game to assess the potential of a design.


title: Survival Analysis of Canadian Oil and Gas Firms

subject:
Canadian oil and gas
Bankruptcy
Cox proportional hazards model
Financial distress
Financial ratios
Firm size
Hedging
Merger and acquisitions
Survival analysis
Extended Cox model

abstract: In the context of oil price fluctuations inducing boom and bust cycles, this empirical study is a survival analysis of the Canadian oil and gas exploration and production (E&P) industry. The population includes 540 public Canadian E&P firms that have their headquarters and production activity in Canada, and the data covers the periods of Q1-2002 to Q1-2016 representing over 15,850 firm-quarter observations. The method is an extended Cox model with repeating events, allowing for the use of time-varying predictor variables and the analysis is executed in R, a free statistical software. The study introduces a new definition of financial distress as two consecutive quarters of negative operating cash flow to total assets ratio, develops a baseline model with financial ratios and industry-specific covariates and tests three hypotheses. The first two hypotheses examine the extent to which hedging and company size respectively correlate to the state of financial distress, and the third hypothesis explores how being financially distressed contributes to being a target in a merger and acquisitions (M&A) transaction. The findings show that a hedging firm is 18.5 times less exposed to the hazard of financial distress than a non-hedging firm; and with each unit size increase, a firm is 1.18 times less likely to experience financial distress, but financial distress is not a valid predictor of the hazard of being an M&A target. This study provides a new perspective supporting the use of hedging and size increase for increasing corporate resilience in Canadian oil and gas firms.


title: Play pedagogy in children's ESL learning: Parents and teachers' perspectives

type: Text thesis

contributor: Handford, Victoria (vhandford) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Thompson Rivers University Faculty of Education and Social Work (Degree granting institution)

format:
electronic
viii, 121 pages

abstract: This study investigates teachers’ and parents’ conceptions of play-based learning in young children’s English acquisition. A total of 15 semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents in both the interior of British Columbia and China, as well as Chinese teachers and foreign teachers who teach English as a Second Language for young children in China. Findings indicate that parental beliefs in the effectiveness and importance of play determine the implementation of play-based learning. Within preschool parents, they consider play as an ideal approach to cultivate preschoolers’ interests in English and motivation to learn English, so they welcome the use of play in English program. However, when children get older, and enter the zone of primary school age, parents expect more academic performance. An emphasis on scores supercedes other priorities and they are likely to reject play-based learning. Interview data detected high parental involvement in young children’s English learning. Findings also identify teachers’ enactment and concerns in relation to play pedagogy. Consequently, the researcher suggests implications from a multi-dimensional lens, including parents, teachers, school leaders and policy makers.

abstract: play-based learning

abstract: ESL

abstract: early learning

abstract: parent attitude

abstract: teacher attitude


title: Matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry as a novel assay for the detection of Clostridium difficile toxins A and B

contributor: Cheeptham, Naowarat (ncheeptham) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Thompson Rivers University Faculty of Science (Degree granting institution)

contributor: Donkor, Kingsley (kdonkor) (thesis advisor)

abstract: Clostridium difficile infection is a major cause of nosocomial diarrhoea, and can culminate in the life-threatening conditions pseudomembranous colitis and toxic megacolon. Disease is produced in C. difficile infection through the release of toxin A and toxin B. Current diagnostics rely on a combination of immunoassays, histopathological findings, and PCR. Immunoassays, though fast, lack sensitivity compared to more expensive and time-consuming histopathology methods. PCR, though sensitive, only indicates the presence of toxin genes and not whether they are being expressed. Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) has been gaining popularity in medical laboratories as a means of identifying bacterial isolates due to high sensitivity and fast turnaround time. The purpose of this study is to investigate MALDI-TOF as a means of detecting the presence of C. difficile toxins A and B. The method developed was based on the proposed cellular processing mechanism of toxin A and B – both are large toxins (approximately 300 kDa) that are endocytosed and undergo a pH-induced conformation change in the early endosome. This causes the active domain and protease domain of the toxin to be translocated into the cytoplasm. Inositol hexakisphosphate, an abundant cystosolic signaling molecule, then binds to the protease domain of the toxin and induces the release of the 63 kDa active toxin. The active component of both toxin A and B glucosylates cellular Rho GTPases, which results in cytoskeleton derangement and cell death. The method developed required fecal material to be prepared as a 1:10 dilution in deionized water followed by filter sterilization. The filtrate volume was then divided into two equal volumes, and each volume was subjected to an acetonitrile precipitation. One pellet was resuspended in deionized water, and the other in sodium acetate buffer (100mM, pH 4.7) to mimic the conditions of the early endosome. The spectra produced from each condition were overlaid, which demonstrated the presence of a high-intensity peak at approximately 60 kDa in known toxin positive specimens. If this peak can be shown to be correlated to the presence of toxin in a larger sample set, this method may hold promise  as a means of detecting C. difficile toxins A and B. This protocol avoids the extensive time and labour associated with a mass-fingerprinting approach, while maintaining higher degree of specificity than simple intact protein detection due to the comparison of spectra between acid and neutral conditions.


title: Gordonia sp. NB4-1Y: Microbial degradation of 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonamide alkyl betaine (FTAB) and 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (FTSA)

contributor: Van Hamme, Jonathan (jvanhamme) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Brewer, Sharon (sbrewer) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Cinel, Bruno (bcinel) (committee member)

contributor: Thompson Rivers University Department of Biological and Physical Sciences (Chemical Biology) (Degree granting institution)

format:
electronic
xi, 59 pages

abstract: The purpose of this study was to identify and quantify breakdown products of the environmental contaminants 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonamide alkyl betaine (FTAB) and 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (FTSA), when added as the sole-sulfur source to cultures of the soil bacterium, Gordonia sp. NB4-1Y. FTAB is used in aqueous film forming firefighting foams and it is known that FTSA will appear, upon the initial degradation of FTAB, in soil, aquatic ecosystems, and ground water with suspected adverse health effects in animals and humans. The majority of existing data on FTAB biodegradation is from analysis of contaminated soil and water samples, and metabolism by mixed microbial communities in sewage treatment plants, rather than from studies involving pure cultures. In an effort to understand the fundamental biochemical processes driving bacterial FTAB and FTSA metabolism, sulfur-limited pure cultures of NB4-1Y were analyzed for both volatile and water-soluble breakdown products using a Dionex Ultimate 3000 UHPLC chain coupled to a Thermo Q-Exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometer over 7 days. Over 168 h, 99.97 % of 60-µM FTSA was degraded into eleven major breakdown products, with a mol % recovery of 88.22, while 70.42 % of 60-µM FTAB was degraded into ten major breakdown products, with a mol % recovery of 84.65. The products detected indicate that NB4-1Y may be using two different approaches for FTSA desulfonation, with approximately 55 mol % of breakdown products being assigned to a major pathway that begins with the conversion of FTSA to 5:2-FT-ketone, with 5:2-FT-ketone being the major product at 43.62 mol %. The minor pathway, hypothesized to begin with conversion of FTSA to 5:3-FTCA, accounted for less than 1.0 mol % of products after 168-hrs of incubation. FTSA is a proposed intermediate of FTAB breakdown by NB4-1Y, but was not detected, possibly due to rapid utilization under sulfur-limiting conditions. As with FTSA breakdown, 20.07 % of FTAB products were assigned to the major pathway, while less than 1.0 mol % were assigned to the minor pathway. Future research will involve isolating enzymes involved in FTAB and FTSA metabolism, verifying their function in vitro, and designing molecular tools for monitoring their metabolism in the environment by diverse microbial communities.


title: Modeling turbulence in landfill gas flow: Ingress into a horizontal well

contributor: Brewster, Rick (rbrewster) (committee member)

contributor: Paetkau, Mark (mpaetkau) (committee member)

contributor: Thompson Rivers University Environmental Science (Degree granting institution)

abstract: Landfill gas collection is a salient component of waste management, energy recovery and environmental protection. The objective of the study is to improve the design and efficiency of operation of horizontal wells from the aspect of flow turbulence. Flow within the porous media (waste matrix, gravel) is coupled to the free pipe flow. Past studies performed this coupling without addressing the turbulence at the ingress to the well apertures. However, investigations at the apertures showed local fluctuations in pressure indicative of the importance of proper turbulence modeling. COMSOL Inc. Multi-physics simulation software is used to couple Darcy flow in the porous media with Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes equations within the well using two turbulence models: k - e and k - w closure models. The results were compared to semi-analytical solutions implemented in GNU Octave (Eatonet al.,2020). Thequasi-1Dgeometryemployedin the semi-analytical model only accounted for the radial flow of gas and excluded the ingress turbulence effects. This study addresses such effects and the comparison plots from two solutions show the importance of including ingress turbulence. A significant discrepancy in head losses within the well and across the landfill was observed between the two approaches. The cumulative ingress impact diminishes the suction strength required for adequate gas extraction as well as pinpoints the proximity of the intake apertures as the salient locus of head loss in the landfill mass. These effects are shown to impact the design and operational parameters of the horizontal well. Differences in the Reynolds number (found from the turbulence modeling results) showed the limitation of the quasi-1D geometry employed in the semi-analytical solutions.The velocity profiles at the ingress revealed abrupt changes indicative of adequate mesh refining and careful ingress flow modeling. Friction factor variation within the well showed the importance of careful ingress flow modeling. The study conclusively proved the importance of modeling turbulence and its underlying structures at the ingress for a realistic representation of flow in the horizontal wells

abstract: compressible and horizontal well

abstract: turbulence

abstract: landfill

abstract: gas flow


title: Ranges and forays of Bighorn Sheep (Ovis Canadensis) in the Thompson region of British Columbia

contributor: Kwiatkowska, Mila (mkwiatkowska) (committee member)

contributor: Thompson Rivers University Natural Resource Sciences (Degree granting institution)

abstract: The movements of animals provide insight into their spatial distribution, landscape use, gene flow, and potential for diseases transmission, and thus are an important measure in the study of the species’ ecology and the development of conservation plans and management practices. Species exhibiting gregarious social-structures generally conduct their movements as part of a herd, but also as individual, and so can increase their likelihood of contact with other herds or species, including domestic individuals. This study provides an analysis of movements of Bighorn Sheep (Ovis canadensis) in the Thompson Region of British Columbia relative to proximity of domestic sheep (Ovis aries). I used GPS location data of 40 rams from four different herds monitored during 2015-2018 toevaluate home range and core areas of each ram group while providing the comparison of four home range estimation methods. Each of the bands exhibited non-migratory behaviour. The animals used the same geographic area through the year, rather than migrating across the landscape. Further, while  their seasonal ranges overlapped significantly, the ranges were considerably larger during the relatively short rutting season than in other seasons. These observations match those reported in previous studies where reintroduced Bighorn Sheep herds occupied relatively small areas and often exhibited no or short migration movements.  The results of this study confirm connectivity between my focal herds and an area occupied by a herd not included in this study. Collared rams from the focal herds displayed short foray movement of less than 6 km, which contrasts with that reported elsewhere. These short forays suggest a lower level of risk of contact with domestic animals existing outside of the herd home ranges. However, it should be emphasized that despite this lower risk, the likelihood of a transmission event cannot be completely discounted. Also, significant amount of private land overlaps or lays adjacent to the home ranges of the study herds, indicating that expanded future use of these lands for livestock range and/or an increase in Bighorn Sheep populations will increase the likelihood of contact between domestic and wild sheep. Thus the risk of contact with domestic sheep is high. Overall, my findings are relevant for establishing operational rules for land use practices and activities seeking to reduce impacts on bighorn herds.


identifier: u2: Department of Natural Resource Sciences

title: Interdisciplinary approaches to enhance biological data collection and understanding of Arctic Grayling (Thymallus arcticus) spawning behaviour

contributor: Carlyle-Moses, Darryl (committee member)

contributor: Thompson Rivers University Department of Natural Resource Sciences (Degree granting institution)

abstract: Increased pressure of industrial development in the Arctic drives the need for a better understanding of Arctic fish and their interaction with their habitat. Environmental disturbances resulting from these developments often require off-setting facilities, particularly with respect to Arctic grayling (Thymallus arcticus) spawning activity. Furthermore, the Arctic is also expected to experience increased climate change effects resulting in adaptations to Arctic grayling behaviour in response to their changing environment. Due to the remoteness of sites, climate extremes and variability, fisheries field work in the Arctic typically requires extensive support, such as camp infrastructure, helicopters, and durable equipment. Support costs to undertake these field programs often limit data collection efforts, potentially leading to questionable habitat assumptions being made that will adversely affect fish behaviour. Using a multi-disciplinary approach, this thesis validated three approaches for improving Arctic grayling enumeration and for establishing a better basis for habitat design criteria: (1) A wildlife camera enumeration technique for Arctic streams was found to be comparable for population estimates when compared to trap boxes and visual stream surveys and able to provide longer data sets with less field time. The use of wildlife cameras is a suitable technique for remote locations but selection will depend on the specific requirements of an enumeration program; (2) Using paired values of depth and velocity, Arctic grayling spawning site selection can be described by the dimensionless Froude number. The preferred Arctic grayling mean Froude number value was found to be 0.27 (SE=0.0045) and was not significantly different between two populations of Arctic grayling in different size streams. This value is also lower than that identified for Sockeye and Atlantic salmon  (Froude number = 0.34) which can likely be attributed to their larger size and different spawning behaviour and substrate selections when compared to Arctic grayling; (3) Commonly measured cross-sectional variables of stream discharge and water temperature were linked in a longitudinal manner through Maximum Likelihood Estimation analysis. Such an approach illustrates the importance of standardizing data for meaningful comparison by consideration of the relationship between variables leading up to a life history event, not just the event itself. A relationship was shown between unit discharge and water temperature leading up to the Arctic grayling spawning event. The enumeration technique was a field project using wildlife cameras images that compared to physical fish counting data being undertaken concurrently by Arctic Canadian Diamond Company Ltd. at Ekati Diamond Mine in the Northwest Territories, Canada. The consideration of spawning activities in relation to habitat and hydraulic characteristics were developed using existing data sets collected as part of regulatory compliance monitoring programs as well as from the available literature.

abstract: Arctic grayling

abstract: spawning

abstract: hydrograph

abstract: Froude number

abstract: habitat

abstract: camera

abstract: enumeration

abstract: Arctic

abstract: data standardization


title: Unexpected responses in ecologically based weed management

contributor: Gardner, Wendy (wgardner) (committee member)

abstract: Spotted knapweed (Centaurea stoebe L.) infestations have threatened western rangelands and grasslands since the late 1800s when it was introduced to North America in ship ballast and alfalfa seed. Traditional invasive plant management has relied on eradicating the plants with herbicide only, rather than addressing the fundamental ecological principles that allow these invasions to establish and re-establish. Field trials were established in the Marquart West pasture at the Laurie Guichon memorial grassland in the Lundbom Commonage approximately 10 km east of Merritt, British Columbia (BC), Canada. Our study used a split-plot experiment design to test combinations of herbicide, wood ash soil amendment and grass seeding to control knapweed and restore desirable grasses in a highly, knapweed invaded rangeland. Herbicide was the main plot, wood ash (0 Mg ha-1, 1 Mg ha-1and 10 Mg ha-1) were the sub-plots and seeded species were Pseudoroegneria spicata, Thinopyrum intermedium and Agropyron cristatum in sub-sub-plots.Results after two years determined that herbicide and ash interactions significantly increased Bromus tectorum, Poa pratensis and Koeleria macrantha. Herbicide significantly decreased spotted knapweed cover, and there were no significant differences in any treatments where herbicide was not present. Herbicide application significantly increased soil nitrate but those results diminished after time. Herbicide treated plots with ash had significantly less plant available nitrogen than the herbicide and no ash plot, suggesting ash did lead to immobilization of nitrate. Seeded grass species did not have any significant establishment during this study; we did see a noticeable increase in P. pratensis and K. macranthawhich were not seeded. This increase was significant only in the herbicide/high ash treatment which suggests that suppression of knapweed was necessary and that wood ash has fertilization properties. Herbicide was the only treatment that significantly decreased spotted knapweed but it lead to secondary invasion of B. tectorum. One explanation is the increased soil nitrogen from the herbicide treated knapweed as annual grasses are able to rapidly take up soil nitrogen. This study provided important insight into managing highly invaded semi-arid rangeland ecosystems.

abstract: soil amendments

abstract: spotted knapweed

abstract: wood ash

abstract: grasslands

abstract: invasive plants

abstract: integrated management

abstract: herbicide

abstract: seeding


title: Capillary electrophoresis method for determination of bisphenol A in drinking water and in British Columbia mussels

contributor: Huttunen-Hennelly, Heidi (hhettunen-Hennelly) (committee member)

contributor: Prema, Dipesh (dprema) (committee member)

contributor: Thompson Rivers University Department of Physical Sciences (Degree granting institution)

abstract: Bisphenol A has been used around the world for over 50 years and traces of it can be found everywhere: in the air, soil, living things, and water. It is very useful for manufacturing polycarbonate plastics, epoxy resins, and countless other products but there are concerns about negative effects, especially on human health since it has been classified as an endocrine disruptor. As such, knowing exactly where it is found is important information. Municipal water supply from various locations in Kamloops, British Columbia were tested by a capillary electrophoresis method developed in this study to detect bisphenol A as low as 5 parts per million. Mussel samples from coastal British Columbia were also tested. None of the water samples tested showed the presence of bisphenol A at the concentrations that were detectable by this method. Mussel tissue analysis was inconclusive and requires further investigation to confirm BPA concentrations around 5 parts per million. Other future work will include refining the capillary electrophoresis method to detect lower concentrations and to attempt to detect bisphenol analogues which are being used to replace bisphenol A in many products.

abstract: capillary electrophoresis

abstract: bisphenol A

abstract: water

abstract: mussel


title: Occurrence and mechanisms of ontogenetic changes in body colour lightness in intertidal marine invertebrates

contributor: Gosselin, Louis A. (lgosselin) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Thompson Rivers University Faculty of Science (Degree granting institution)

contributor: Ross Friedman, Cynthia M. (thesis advisor)

contributor: Heise, Brian A. (bheise) (committee member)

abstract:
ABSTRACT
Ontogenetic changes in body colouration are known to occur in some benthic marine invertebrates and have been associated with ecological shifts in diet and physiological tolerance. It is not known, however, whether ontogenetic colour changes are common among benthic marine invertebrate species or which mechanisms control these changes in body colour. This study therefore examines the degree of lightness in body coloration (converted to greyscale); the specific goals were to determine (1) the proportion of species that undergo a change in body colour lightness from a sample of 15 intertidal species, (2) if changes in lightness during ontogeny are associated with changes in microhabitat use, and (3) if diet or exposure to light affects the production of shell pigmentation in the snail Nucella ostrina, which are known to hatch white but later add coloured pigments to new shell growth. For each of the 15 species that I examined, 60-140 individuals of varying sizes were collected, weighed, and their body lightness index was quantified using digital imaging. Six motile species were then analyzed for a microhabitat shift during ontogeny. Of the 15 species studied, 11 underwent some degree of change in body colour lightness during ontogeny. Six of those 11 species had a change in body colour lightness of at least 10% between the 10 smallest and 10 largest individuals. The study of microhabitat use by six motile species revealed only one (a hermit crab) that substantially changed microhabitat use during ontogeny; two species partially changed microhabitat use during ontogeny, one other species showed no change, and results were inconclusive for the last two species. The last experiment revealed that N. ostrina hatchlings raised in the dark remained significantly lighter in colour than those exposed to light and that diet did not appear to impact shell colour, indicating that the production of dark shell pigmentation in this species is stimulated by exposure to bright sunlight.


title: The effects of hatch-order and gender on the behaviour of burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia)

contributor: Reudink, Matt (mreudink) (thesis advisor)

subject: Burrowing owl

abstract: Burrowing Owls (Athene cunicularia) have an asynchronous hatch: females begin incubating well before the last eggs are laid, which results in age, size and developmental differences among the members of a clutch. Mating monogamously, for rarely longer then a season, Burrowing Owls have different sex-based roles within a mating pair. Males are typically more territorial than females, and might thus be expected to be generally more aggressive. Males defend their burrows, mates and offspring from predators or competing males while females spend more time incubating and caring for their offspring. I examine the effects of an asynchronous hatch and gender on the behaviour of juvenile Burrowing Owls. Intraspecific interactions between individual owls were observed within an enclosure, in which captive-bred owls are held before release and the relative aggressiveness or submissiveness of each bird was determined during each interaction. The results indicate that although there appears to be an association between the gender and asynchronous hatch on the behaviour of Burrowing Owls there does not appear to be any association between the clutch size and hatch weight on their behaviour.


title: Detection of the amphibian pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis on spadefoots in the Kamloops region

contributor: Van Hamme, Jonathan (jvanhamme) (thesis advisor)

abstract:
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis is a species of chytrid fungus responsible for the decline and extinction of amphibian populations worldwide (Longcore 1999 and others). Recently, B. dendrobatidis has been detected on western toads (Bufo boreas) in southwestern British Columbia (Deguise & Richardson 2009) and has therefore become a concern for conservationists across the province. Chytrid DNA can be extracted from tissue samples, skin swabs, and water bodies and subsequently detected using real time PCR techniques. It is currently unknown whether the chytrid fungus is affecting amphibian populations in the Kamloops area. This project aimed to first validate an effective real time PCR assay for detecting the presence of the amphibian pathogen B. dendrobatidis, and second to employ this real time PCR assay to detect B. dendrobatidis on experimental samples collected in the Kamloops region.
Specifically, spadefoots were captured during the summer of 2013 from the New Afton mining site located south of Kamloops, BC. A total of 78 spadefoots were captured, swabbed, and subsequently weighed, measured and released. Parameters for optimizing an effective real time PCR assay were tested to detect B. dendrobatidis in experimental samples; initially a Taqman assay was tried, but due to a lack of success, a SYBR Green assay was used. DNA was extracted from all samples and 30 of these samples were tested for B. dendrobatidis using the SYBR Green assay and gel electrophoresis.
B. dendrobatidis DNA was not detected in any of the 30 experimental samples. Melt curve analysis indicated the presence of multiple PCR products, products which were observed by gel electrophoresis at lengths less than 150 base pairs. It is possible that non-specific primer binding occurred, or that primer dimers formed, at low template DNA concentrations as these bands were not observed above 42 standard DNA copy numbers. Based on the results in hand, it is possible that (1) chytrid is not present in the ponds at New Afton mine, (2) chytrid is present but is not affecting the spadefoots, (3) the sensitivity of the SYBR Green assay was not sufficient to detect chytrid DNA, (4) PCR inhibitors interfered with the detection of chytrid DNA on samples, and (5) chytrid DNA did not adhere to the swabs that were used in this work. Future research should employ swabs with smaller tips and employ the more sensitive Taqman assay using a probe with a non-flourescent quencher (NFQ) as opposed to a black-hole quencher (BHQ-1) that was used here.


title: Response of the body morphometrics and eye development of the crayfish (Cambarellus patzcuarensis) to differing light wavelengths experienced during juvenile life

contributor: Gosselin, Louis (lgosselin) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Ross Friedman, Cynthia (cross) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Rakobowchuk, Mark (mrakobowchuk) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Higgins, Robert (rhiggins) (committee member)

contributor: Thompson Rivers University Department of Biological Sciences (Degree granting institution)

format:
electronic
v, 24 pages

abstract: The growth process in crustaceans is periodic and can be affected by a variety of environmental factors. Photoperiod has been hypothesized to indirectly affect growth by altering feeding behaviour; in addition, previous studies have found that light quality directly affects eye development in many crayfish species both externally through ommatidia development and internally by altered pigments present in the eye. However, it is not known at what stage in life these changes occur. A key characteristic in crayfish growth is allometric (proportional) growth exhibited between body size and sexually selected characteristics such as cheliped size. This study examined whether specific light wavelengths (blue, red, white, and no light) influence the growth and morphology of the orange dwarf crayfish, Cambarellus patzcuarensis, in terms of body size, eye size, and specific eye parameters of ommatidia size and density in both juveniles and adults. Crayfish were raised from one-week old juveniles to adult (16 weeks) or juvenile (7 weeks) life stages in controlled environments. Upon sampling, digital photographs of each individual were taken to assess body size and colouration and both eyes were removed. The left eyes were fixed and scanning electron micrographs taken to document surface features of the eye. Eyes were then embedded in resin and sectioned to measure the depth of ommatidia inside the eye. The right eyes were pooled by treatment, homogenized, and pigments suspended into solution before absorbance spectra over the visible light range were taken using a spectrophotometer. The light wavelengths experienced during juvenile growth did not significantly influence body growth or the development of external morphological characteristics of the eye such as eye size, ommatidia size or ommatidia density in individuals of either life stage (P > 0.05). The absorbance spectra of homogenized eye tissues suggests light wavelengths did influence the production of pigments in the eyes. In particular, the eyes of individuals grown under blue light had lower absorbance in the 550-570 nm range and through to 750 nm, which is consistent with the absorption spectrum of ommin pigments. Eye size as well as ommatidia size and density developed proportionally with body size in juveniles (P <0.05); however, this allometry did not appear to be maintained into adult life. Ommatidia size and density were also correlated in juveniles in relation to eye size (P < 0.05); however, only ommatidia density remained correlated with eye size in adults. External morphology was not found to differ between treatments, but absorbance spectra appeared to differ from 550-750 nm (yellow-orange).


title: Age-related change in carotenoid-based plumage of the American redstart (Setophaga ruticilla)

contributor: Reudink, Matthew (mreudink) (thesis advisor)

abstract: Plumage colouration serves a variety of functions for birds, including signalling conspecifics, crypsis, and predator-prey interactions. Though much research has been conducted on colour change in species which exhibit delayed plumage maturation, where birds do not exhibit definitive adult plumage until their second breeding season or later, relatively few studies have examined how colour changes once definitive adult plumage has been attained. Studies that have focused on changes in definitive plumage colour have proposed two non-mutually exclusive hypotheses to explain colour change: age-related colour change occurs within individuals, and colour biased survival of more or less colourful individuals. Few studies have examined how carotenoid-based plumage colour changes, and those that have found conflicting results as to whether age-related colour change is occurring. In this study I examined the carotenoid-based plumage colour of the American redstarts, a migratory passerine that exhibits delayed plumage maturation where males obtain definitive plumage after their second year. Using reflectance spectrometry on feathers collected over a ten year period from a breeding population in Ontario, Canada, I quantified the colour characteristics of each feather and compared the intermediate (juvenile) colour to the definitive plumage colour, and tracked how the definitive adult plumage colour changed over time. As expected, due to delayed plumage maturation, male redstarts had definitive plumage that was significantly more orange and saturated in carotenoid chroma than their intermediate plumage. Additionally, males were most orange-shifted (reflected light at the longest wavelengths) during their first breeding season with definitive plumage, and became significantly more yellow-shifted (reflected light at shorter wavelengths) in the subsequent season. Female redstarts displayed significantly brighter and more orange-shifted plumage during their second breeding season compared to their first, but did not undergo any further colour change in subsequent years. The results of this study support the hypothesis that age-related colour change occurs within individuals, however I cannot rule out the possibility that differential survival also acts at the population level. Plumage colour is a complex trait and further research is needed to understand the relationship between change and reproductive effort.


title: In vitro inhibition of methane production in bovine rumen fluid cultures by Red Lake Earth, a natural diatomaceous earth-calcium bentonite blend

contributor: Smith, Ron (ronsmith) (committee member)

abstract: Farming ruminants contributes to over 25% of anthropogenic methane (CH4), a compound which is 25 times stronger at heat trapping than CO2, making it one of the most impactful of greenhouse gases. Because of this, mitigation of CH4 emissions is critical both environmentally and agriculturally. In this study, the effects of an approved feed additive, Red Lake Earth (RLE), on cattle rumen fluid methane production was observed in vitro. Pure diatomaceous earth (DE), pure calcium bentonite, and mined RLE containing a mixture of these two materials, were tested for their effects on CH4 production in vitro at concentrations from 20 to 100 g/L. After 24 hours of incubation, CH4 production was measured directly from culture headspace using gas chromatography. RLE treatments were found to reduce CH4 production by 90.5% ± 1.9 % compared to untreated cultures, and the 20 g/L treatment was selected for 5 day time course studies using rumen fluid from 4 independent animals. Methane production in RLE treated, 5-day cultures was, on average, inhibited by 59% ± 11% compared to untreated controls. Liquid culture samples were analyzed using quantitative real time PCR (qPCR; mcrA, 18S and 16S rDNA) and reverse transcriptase qPCR (mcrA) to quantify the effects of RLE on numbers of protozoa, bacteria and archaea in cultures. No significant changes in total archaea, bacteria, mcrA genes or protozoa were found when cultures were treated with RLE. However, there was a significant reduction in the transcript to gene ratio of the mcrA gene suggesting that RLE may inhibit methanogenesis by indirectly reducing transcriptional activity. This research strongly supports the ability of RLE to reduce rumen CH4 production in vitro by reducing methanogen activity and suggests further genomic and in vivo studies to assess the potential impact of RLE as a feed additive.


title: Characterization of the antimicrobial secondary metabolites produced by the cave bacteria Streptomyces sp. Strain Icc1

contributor: Huttunen-Hennelly, Heidi (hhuttunen) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Cheeptham, Naowarat (ncheeptham) (committee member)

contributor: Kingsley, Donkor (dkingsley) (committee member)

contributor: Bottos, Eric (ebottos) (committee member)

abstract: Streptomyces is one of the most abundant microbial genera in cave environments. The characteristic most notable of Streptomyces is its ability to produce bioactive secondary metabolites –such as antifungals, antivirals, antitumorales, anti-hypertensives, immunosuppressants, and antibiotics. Through the present research, secondary metabolites produced by the cave-dwelling Streptomyces sp. strain ICC1 were examined; a strain which is prevalent in the isolated environment of the Iron Curtain Cave in Chilliwack, British Columbia. Secondary metabolites secreted by Streptomyces sp. ICC1 have demonstrated antimicrobial properties, effective against both multi-drug resistant strains and common laboratory strains of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Liquid organic solvent extractions as well as preparative and analytical reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography suggest that the bioactive secondary metabolites are polar with hydrophobic substituents. Further instrumental analysis is required to determine the antimicrobial active secondary metabolites structure and mode of action.

abstract: secondary metabolites

abstract: Antibiotic resistance

abstract: cave bacteria

abstract: streptomyces


title: Conscience matters

contributor: Johnson, George (George Johnson (gjohnson)) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Woodrow, Jenna (Jenna Woodrow (jwoodrow)) (committee member)

contributor: Wallin, Mark Rowell (Mark Wallin (mwallin)) (committee member)

contributor: Thompson Rivers University Interdisciplinary Studies (Degree granting institution)

format:
electronic
iv, 46 pages

subject: Conscience

abstract: This paper examines the role and value of conscience. Primarily, three basic conclusions are advanced: (1) that action in accord with conscience is productive of psychological health; (2) that for conscience to serve as an adequate guide to conduct it has to be developed; and (3) that both the expression and development of conscience require, or at least appreciably benefit from, the greatest amount of social liberty possible. In accord with the interdisciplinary nature of this project, the aforesaid conclusions were drawn (and are explored) from the diverse disciplinary perspectives of psychology, philosophy, religious studies, and history. Ultimately, more questions are raised than answered. Nevertheless, there is a central argument: conscience matters.


title: Common factors of adventure therapy

contributor: Webster, Reid (rwebster) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Freeze, Dave (dfreeze) (committee member)

contributor: McGivern, Ron (rmcgivern) (committee member)

contributor: Wallin, Mark Rowell (mwallin) (committee member)

format:
electronic
vi, 74 pages

subject:
Adventure therapy
Psychotherapy

abstract:
The objective of this project was to determine if the common factors of traditional psychotherapies could be found in adventure therapy. The study uses secondary research methods, in which the literature has been reviewed. The results have shown that, indeed, the common factors denoting the effectiveness of traditional
psychotherapies are also found in adventure therapy. One can then extrapolate that adventure therapy continues to develop as an effective and legitimate means of treatment when compared to traditional forms of psychotherapy.


identifier: u2: Faculty of Education and Social Work

title: Glocalization and international student retention in higher education

contributor: Handford, Victoria (Tory) (vhandford) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Thompson Rivers University Faculty of Education and Social Work (Degree granting institution)

contributor: Scheck, Ulrich (uscheck) (committee member)

rights: Restricted: cannot be viewed until May 31, 2017

subject:
Students, Foreign -- Canada
Education, Higher -- Canada

abstract: This research explored the potential impacts that glocalization has on international student retention in Canadian higher education. Semi-structured interviews of 16 international students(eight graduate and eight undergraduate) at a medium-sized, research-oriented university in British Columbia were conducted using Critical Incident Technique (CIT). Participants were recruited through the passive snowball sampling technique, and interviews were analyzed using the approaches of grounded theory. Results of this research were consistent with the literature investigating international student retention and glocalization. Twelve promising practices related to university teaching and learning emerged from the analysis. These were categorized into four larger overarching themes: a) pedagogy, b) policies and procedures, c) learning environment, and d) curriculum. The findings provide evidence that glocalization improves the voice, participation, and prosperity of international students by offering a unique platform for mutual understanding of needs, problems, and solutions. It serves as a bridge between international students and the different stakeholders who are willing and able to “think globally and act locally”. As a reconceptualization of educational systems, glocalization represents a growing cluster of strategies for increasing student success and retention in higher education.

abstract: glocalization

abstract: retention

abstract: international students

abstract: Critical Incident Technique

abstract: promising practices

abstract: university teaching

abstract: higher education


title: One size does not fit all: A conceptual community development framework

contributor: Cloutier, Ross (rcloutier) (committee member)

format:
electronic
iv., 52 p.
electronic

subject:
Community Development
Economic Development
Tourism

abstract: Any community development plan needs to account for a multitude of factors and variables—physical environments, cultural contexts, and historical and political relations. In addition, every community has specific needs and therefore one community development plan cannot be applied to multiple communities. One size does not fit all. This thesis will examine some of the problems with current development plans and frameworks that seek to homogenize communities and their needs. In this thesis I will explore how all of these factors need to be taken into account for community development initiatives. From there I will propose a conceptual framework of the key issues that need to be accounted for in the development of any specific plan.


title: Common themes in the vegan YouTube movement: Community, health, ethics, regret and education

contributor: Fehr, Florriann (ffehr) (thesis advisor)

format:
electronic
iv, 92 pages

subject:
Vegans
Vegans -- Video blogs
Veganism
Veganism -- Video blogs
Veganism -- Social aspects
Veganism -- Moral and ethical aspects

abstract: In North America, there are countless different diets and lifestyles revolving around food choices. What we choose to eat, or what we choose to avoid eating can affect relationships with others. Food choices can make people feel judged or insecure about their preferences. Vegans, people who avoid using and eating animal products, can often feel ostracized by their direct communities as their core beliefs are opposed with great force. Challenging the normalized belief system of eating animal products called Carnism (Joy, 2009), can lead vegans to feeling unaccepted and anxious with a desire to find a sense of belonging in society. Many vegans choose the Internet as a safe place to acquire knowledge and provide life advice about the vegan lifestyle and how to deal with a primarily omnivorous society. The researcher chose seventeen different YouTube video diaries (vlogs) to examine and understand the online world of veganism. This nethnography found five major themes that emerged within the online vegan community: (1) Feelings or fear of loss of community (2) Increase in physical and mental health (3) A sense of moral alignment with actions (4) Sense of remorse from past actions and (5) Educating themselves about veganism. This thesis will examine the main themes that emerge from the Vegan YouTube community and relate them to other social and subculturemovements through an interdisciplinary approach.

abstract: vegan

abstract: carnism

abstract: vlogs

abstract: stigma

abstract: netnography


title: Evaluating unmanned aerial vehicle based crop indexing techniques: Modified consumer grade RGB vs. multispectral

contributor: Church, John S. (jchurch) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Hill, David J. (dhill) (committee member)

contributor: Whitworth, Garrett (gwhitworth) (committee member)

contributor: Fraser, Lauchlan (lfraser) (committee member)

contributor: Thompson Rivers University Department of Natural Resource Sciences (Degree granting institution)

format:
electronic
iv, 31 pages

subject:
Drone aircraft
Crop science

abstract: The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in agriculture is a relatively new and rapidly expanding concept. By using UAVs equipped with multispectral near infrared sensors, farmers and land managers can detect intra-field crop variability which enables adjustments to be made to crop applications and other management decisions. This type of management has been termed precision agriculture and employs the use of various crop indices such as the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). The NDVI is one of the most common crop indices; and is used to measure relative chlorophyll content in green vegetation. In this study, I investigated the sensing abilities of two aerial cameras to determine whether filter modified consumer cameras can produce NDVI maps equivalent to those produced by a multispectral camera. I compared a MicaSense RedEdge® multispectral camera to a modified DJI Zenmuse X3 camera, mounted simultaneously onboard a DJI Inspire 1 UAV, with respect to their ability to generate reliable NDVI maps using Pix4D photogrammetry software. Through evaluation of the index maps produced by the two cameras, the MicaSense RedEdge® was found to produce index values that were more representative of the study site than the modified DJI Zenmuse X3. Spatial vegetation patterns observed by the two sensors were also determined to be significantly different. This study revealed that the two sensors did not produce equivalent NDVI results, and multispectral cameras appear to be a more accurate tool for examining crop productivity and variability.


title: Funding water utility system improvements in rural British Columbia: How much are residents willing to pay?

contributor: Tsigaris, Peter (ptsigaris) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Thompson Rivers University Faculty of Science (Degree granting institution)

contributor: Waldichuk, Tom (twaldichuk) (committee member)

contributor: Larsen, Karl (klarsen) (committee member)

contributor: Dickinson, Tom (tdickinson) (committee member)

format: electronic 135p electronic

subject: Water utilities -- Rates -- Canada

subject: Water quality -- British Columbia

subject: Socioeconomic Factors -- Canada -- British Columbia

abstract: Water delivered by the Savona, BC utility system routinely fails to meet quality standards mandated by Health Canada resulting in extensive water quality advisories and boil water notices. By analyzing socioeconomic attributes such as household income and family size, in combination with environmental factors associated with water quality, the willingness to pay for improvements to the community delivery system was estimated. Using the contingent-valuation survey method, we determined that the majority of residents were unwilling to pay to improve municipal water quality and those that were willing, will on average pay an additional $8.36 in monthly fees. The presence of children in a household, income, and gender had a large impact on the probability that an individual would be willing to pay while the perception of water quality was less influential.

abstract: contingent-valuation

abstract: averting expenditure

abstract: water utility

abstract: willingness to pay

abstract: water quality


title: Stakeholders perspectives on sport hunting, conservation, and ecosystem sustainability in British Columbia, Canada

contributor: Mason, Courtney (Courtney Mason (cmason)) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Larsen, Karl (Karl Larsen (klarsen)) (committee member)

contributor: Hood, Rob (Rob Hood (rhood)) (committee member)

format:
electronic
vii, 97 pages
electronic

subject: Hunting -- British Columbia

subject: Wildlife conservation -- British Columbia

abstract:
Hunting as a wildlife conservation tool has been the centre of much debate as climate change, the decline of carnivores, and increased pressure from human encroachment threaten wildlife species globally. There has also been increases in the popularity of sport hunting and heightened editorial coverage of conservation stories. This has led to polarizing views on hunting for wildlife management. This thesis takes a critical look at these issues from the perspective of hunting stakeholders. The objective was to emphasize the importance of acknowledging diverse stakeholders in these discussions as they have unique knowledge of
land and wildlife systems that are integral to sustainability. A community-based participatory research (CBPR) methodology was utilized in order to access the complex relationships within the hunting industry. This methodology enabled the effective engagement of hunting communities in order to identify their key concerns and recognize the knowledge and abilities of participants. Data was collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with resident hunters, conservation officers, wildlife biologists, guide outfitters, hunting suppliers, and Indigenous hunters. Topics of stereotyping, sustainability, inclusion, stakeholder relationships, and the power of social influence within the hunting industry were investigated. The findings were divided into four distinct chapters. Chapter one identifies the current gaps in literature that exist regarding hunting and wildlife management as well as provides an overview of the methodology utilized. Chapter two, establishes an overview of B.C.’s hunting industry from the perspective of resident hunters. There is specific focus on the lack of consultation of stakeholders in decision-making and policy development and stereotypes created in the media. In the third chapter, the complexity of relationships between humans, wildlife, and contemporary stakeholders within B.C.’s hunting industry are examined. Additionally, the role of humans within ecosystem structures are contemplated by
the participants. How contemporary issues associated with hunting in B.C. relate to larger concerns regarding land-use within the province are discussed in the final chapter. This research provides insight into the current state of the hunting industry, hunting’s role in wildlife management, and the sensitive needs of stakeholders in their efforts to promote the health and conservation of wildlife populations. The results inform inclusive policies that balance the needs of local peoples, communities, and ecosystem conservation. The findings also educate the general public on the role of hunting in B.C. in an effort to produce solutions that ensure the long-term health of both regional ecosystems and hunting economies within the province. This research contributes to the further development of sustainable sport hunting and conservation economies as well as to the broader discussions surrounding land use in the province. As climate change, ongoing land-use conflicts, natural resource extraction, and the expansion of the global human population threaten ecosystems, leaders are facing a growing dilemma around how to balance sustainable use of B.C. lands while supporting provincials and federal economies. Amidst this crisis, it is even more imperative to consider stakeholders in decision-making processes because their unique perspectives on wildlife and ecosystems, could be critical to evaluate and eventually determine the future of provincial land-use management.

abstract: hunting

abstract: wildlife conservation

abstract: community based participatory action

abstract: sustainability

abstract: interviews

abstract: British Columbia


title: Use of exogenous fibrolytic enzymes to improve the nutritive value of preserved forage for ruminants

contributor: Donkor, Kingsley (kdonkor) (committee member)

contributor: Cinel, Bruno (bcinel) (committee member)

format:
130 pages
electronic
electronic

subject:
Enzymes
Ferulic acid esterase
Lambs -- Growth
Lambs -- Feeding and feeds

abstract: This study was conducted to determine the effects of fibrolytic enzymes applied at baling, with or without ferulic acid esterase (FAE) producing bacterial inoculant, or to hay at feeding on digestibility and growth performance of lambs. Prior to starting the animal studies, two runs of replicated 24- and 48-h batch culture in vitro incubations were conducted using control alfalfa hay to select a suitable enzyme and dose. Eleven replicate bales of alfalfa-grass (93.8:6.2) hay (~500 kg) were produced with the application of one of three treatments: control (water), enzyme applied at baling (Eb; Econase RDE-L, AB Vista, Wiltshire, UK) and enzyme plus ferulic acid esterase producing bacterial additive applied at baling (EIb; 11 GFT, Pioneer HI-Bred Ltd., Chathan, ON, Canada). The mean internal bale temperature after 50 days of storage was greater (P<0.001) for Eb than control and EIb, as was the post-storage hemicellulose (P<0.05) concentration [mean bale temperature (°C), Eb = 26.8, EIb = 22.8, control = 17.8; hemicellulose concentration (g/kg dry matter), Eb = 127, control = 115, EIb = 114]. Two animal experiments using lambs were conducted after bales were stored for at least 90 days. The digestibility study was a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design with 16 lambs and the animal performance study consisted of 32 lambs (8 per treatment) in a randomized complete block design. In both studies lambs received one of four treatments: control, Eb, EIb and enzymes added to control hay at feeding (Ef). In the digestibility study, total tract apparent organic matter (OM) (P=0.07) digestibility tended to be affected by treatment, with OM digestibilities greater for lambs fed Ef compared with lambs fed the other treatments, although differences were small (Ef vs. others; OM, 0.658 vs. 0.646). However, neutral detergent fiber (aNDF) and hemicellulose digestibilities were greatest (P<0.05) for lambs fed Eb, with no differences among the other treatments (aNDF, Eb = 0.480, control = 0.437, Ef = 0.430, EIb = 0.430; hemicellulose, Eb = 0.524, control = 0.460, Ef = 0.458, EIb = 0.446). In both studies there was no effect (P>0.05) of treatment on OM intakes. Average daily gain (ADG, g/d) of lambs in the performance study was greater (P=0.048) for EIb (233) than control (192) and Ef (202), and intermediate for Eb (206). Feed efficiency tended to be affected (P=0.07) by treatment; gain:feed for EIb was 18% greater than control and Eb and Ef were similar to the control. This study showed that applying enzymes to alfalfa hay at baling decreased aerobic stability, and increased fiber content and its digestibility, but ADG and gain:feed of lambs were not improved. Adding FAE producing bacterial inoculant with enzymes at baling improved aerobic stability of hay and ADG and gain:feed of lambs were increased relative to lambs fed control and enzymes applied at feeding. Applying enzymes at feeding increased apparent OM digestibilities but not fiber digestibilities, and had no effect on animal performance. We conclude that fibrolytic enzyme application with FAE producing bacterial inoculant at baling was the most promising method for enhancing performance of lambs fed baled alfalfa hay

abstract: Fibrolytic enzyme

abstract: Fiber

abstract: Alfalfa

abstract: Ferulic acid esterase

abstract: Average daily gain

abstract: Apparent digestibility


title: Investigating the carbon footprint of cattle grazing the Lac Du Bois grasslands:: The effects changes in management may have on reducing and removing GHG emissions, and opportunities for BC ranchers to explore

format: electronic 119p electronic

subject: Carbon sequestration -- British Columbia

subject: Methane -- Environmental aspects -- British Columbia

subject: Greenhouse gases -- Environmental aspects -- British Columbia

subject: Ranching -- Environmental aspects -- British Columbia

abstract: Greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture, which includes cattle grazing, have been increasingly recognized as an extremely important anthropogenic source. The primary focus of this body of work was to investigate the impact of cattle ranching on these emissions in British Columbia in order to determine the overall carbon footprint. To accomplish this task, the grazing activity that is currently occurring within the Lac Du Bois grasslands of British Columbia was examined. Particular emphasis was placed on identifying point sources and removals of greenhouse gas emissions from cattle ranching. Enteric methane emissions were empirically measured at two elevation gradients in the spring and fall of 2010, and it was found that the cattle emitted on average 370.01 L CH4/day; these measurements done on native grasslands, are comparable to similar work done by others on tame pastures. The total digestible nutrients (TDN) from the pastures in the study area were determined to be 65.22% of dry matter; which is the default value used by the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in their methodology for determining overall emissions. Utilizing this information, a whole system life cycle analysis (LCA) was conducted on cattle grazing in Lac Du Bois. Equipped with a validated model based on our empirical measurements, the following grassland improvement strategies were evaluated: reducing stocking density; and reseeding/interseeding grass and legumes with and without synthetic fertilizer additions. Of the scenarios modelled, reseeding was the most effective at reducing the carbon footprint of cattle ranching on the Lac Du Bois grasslands. Reseeding initiatives could theoretically result in soil carbon sequestration rates of 2.12 Mg CO2 eq/ha. Finally, the potential opportunities for BC livestock ranchers to participate in carbon markets were reviewed. While opportunities exist, cattle ranchers will have to adapt or develop applicable protocols in order to participate in carbon markets. Diet manipulation and pasture rejuvenation initiatives may offer the best carbon offset potential. It is recommended that a combination of reductions and removals should be implemented in the future to reduce the overall carbon footprint of cattle ranching in British Columbia.

abstract: cattle grazing

abstract: carbon footprint

abstract: methane emissions

abstract: carbon sequestration


title: The quantitative importance of stemflow: An evaluation of past research and results from a study in Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta var. latifolia) stands in Southern British Columbia

contributor: Carlyle-Moses, Darryl (dcarlyle) (thesis advisor)

format: electronic 113p electronic

subject:
Forest hydrology -- British Columbia
Lodgepole pine -- British Columbia

abstract: Stemflow is a focused point source input of precipitation and nutrients at the base of a tree or plant, and can have a significant impact on site hydrology. A review paper examining the quantitative importance of stemflow, and a stemflow modelling paper focused on juvenile lodgepole pine are presented in this thesis. Stemflow production information from 145 different studies is presented in table format with the addition of author-calculated funnelling ratios and plateau funnelling ratios when applicable. Plateau funnelling ratios were calculated to provide an estimation of the rainfall depth required to satisfy the storage capacity of a tree. Reference tables were used to identify inter-climatic, inter-genera, and intra-genera variations in stemflow production. Plateau funnelling ratios were used to identify shortcomings in current canopy interception models. Finally, the reference tables were used to identify areas of the stemflow literature where knowledge remains fairly weak. To date, no known studies have modelled stemflow production for juvenile lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta var. latifolia). Meteorological conditions, tree characteristics, and stemflow were sampled for two juvenile lodgepole pine stands over the course of the 2009 growing season. Step-wise multiple regression was used to assess which meteorological and tree architecture variables influenced stemflow production for each research plot. Once predictor variables were identified, models were produced for each stand and a generic model was produced that applied to both plots. A model employing precipitation depth and crown projection area successfully explained 71.3 % of the variation in stemflow production from sampled trees.

abstract: Lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta var. latifolia)

abstract: stemflow

abstract: stemflow funnelling ratio

abstract: plateau funnelling ratio

abstract: forest hydrology


title: Examining local food procurement, adaptive capacity and resilience to environmental change in Fort Providence, Northwest Territories

contributor: Mason, Courtney (cmason) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Tsigaris, Peter (ptsigaris) (committee member)

contributor: McCormick, Rob (rmccormick) (committee member)

format:
electronic
vi, 102 pages

subject: Food security -- Northwest Territories -- Fort Providence

subject: Food security -- Climatic factors -- Northwest Territories -- Fort Providence

abstract: Rural Indigenous communities across northern Canada are experiencing high rates of food insecurity as a result of interconnected socio-cultural, economic and environmental challenges. The loss of traditional ecological knowledge, high costs of market foods and lack of infrastructural capacity are creating multifaceted barriers for isolated, northern communities. Climate change is impacting the ability of northern Indigenous communities to acquire, access and utilize food that is culturally relevant and sustainable. This research explores local food procurement activities in the community of Fort Providence, Northwest Territories. The objective of this research was to consult with key community members to understand the detrimental effects of climate change on land-based food procurement, but also to understand the complex socio-cultural, economic and environmental challenges related to food security. This study utilizes Indigenous Methodologies to guide all aspects of the research. Evidence was collected using semi-structured interviews with Elders, land-users, and knowledgeable community members. The benefits and difficulties of engaging in land-based and alternative food procurement were key topics explored. Strategies to manage food insecurity, to promote local food procurement and to create a clear picture of community perspectives in addressing constraints to adaptation, were also considered. The results inform policies that reflect the needs of local residents, address the distinct socio-cultural and economic barriers to procure local food and support overall community resilience and adaptive capacities to environmental changes.

abstract: Food security

abstract: Climate change

abstract: Indigenous

abstract: Rural communities

abstract: Sub-arctic


title: Quantifying fine-scale variability in soil available water with hot, dry Douglas-fir ecosystems

contributor: Pypker, Thomas (Thomas Pypker (tpypker)) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Gardner, Wendy (Wendy Gardner (wgardner)) (committee member)

contributor: Schmidt, Margaret Schmidt (committee member)

format:
electronic
xi, 94 pages
electronic

subject:
Douglas fir
Forest ecology
Forest soils
Douglas fir -- Effect of drought on

abstract: Dry, grassy sites within Douglas-fir forests are difficult to regenerate following harvesting due to harsh climatic conditions and intense inter-species competition for limited moisture resources. The objective of this study was to sample soil properties of a recently harvested opening (16 ha) to provide information about post-harvest soil conditions and their relationship with water holding capacity within these dry ecosystems. Utilizing soil properties with established soil water characteristic equations, I predicted soil water holding capacity (SWHC) across the site and at four depths. We completed a topographic survey for the site using aerial light detection and ranging (LiDAR) technology to create a high-resolution (~1m) digital elevation model (DEM). We statistically compared multiple topographic variables with water retention properties via multiple linear regression and geographically weighted regression to determine what drives soil moisture distribution on finer scales than previously studied. Coarse fragments (CF) had the highest amount of variability on the site and altered SWHC the greatest compared with other measured soil properties, with a 10% increase in CF corresponding with a 4.7 mm decrease in SWHC. Additionally, geographically weighted regression was found to outperform multiple linear regression for interpolating the measured soil properties using principle component derived topographic predictor variables. However, the models only explained roughly one half or less of the variability in all soil properties (most R2 ≤ 0.50), thereby suggesting that local soil properties be measured to gain accurate representations of any given site prior to conducting logging or site prescription treatments. To maintain sustainable timber resources within dry Douglas-fir forests in a changing climate, an improved understanding of the soil condition prior to regeneration will become increasingly important.

abstract: LiDAR

abstract: soil

abstract: variability

abstract: water

abstract: interpolation

abstract: water

abstract: topography

abstract: drought

abstract: geostatistics


title: The effects of Spotted Knapweed (Centaurea stobe L.) on grassland plants and soils in British Columbia

contributor: Fraser, Lauchlan (lfraser) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Gardner, Wendy (wgardner) (committee member)

contributor: Ross Friedman, Cynthia (cross) (committee member)

contributor: Kwiatkowska, Mila (mkwiatkowska) (committee member)

format: electronic 72p electronic

subject: Grasslands -- British Columbia -- Lac du Bois Grasslands Provincial Park

subject: Invasive plants -- British Columbia

abstract: In British Columbia, grasslands provide critical habitat for a wide variety of species and are a significant forage base for BC’s ranching industry. Grasslands in BC are threatened from several human-caused stressors, including urban development, over-grazing, climate change and the introduction of non-native invasive species. Spotted knapweed (Centaurea stoebe L.), is an invasive plant introduced to North America from Europe. It can establish large monocultures in BC’s grasslands which can cause a reduction in wildlife and livestock forage production, a lowering of native biodiversity, and an alteration in soil nutrient composition. I investigated the carry over effects immediately following removal of large and small spotted knapweed patches on soil mineral nutrients (nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), carbon (C) and volumetric water content) and the growth of an important native grass, rough fescue (Festuca campestris Rydb.), in grasslands within Lac du Bois Provincial Park, located to the northwest of the city of Kamloops, British Columbia. The results of field experiments showed that soil total nitrogen, total carbon, volumetric water content and biomass of rough fescue were lower in former spotted knapweed patches, but there was no significant difference in soil total phosphorus. In addition, there was no measureable difference between large and small spotted knapweed patches in soil mineral nutrients and plant growth. In a greenhouse experiment I manipulated N:P ratios (1:1, 15:1 and 30:1) and biochar (10g/pot or none) to test their effect on competitive performance between spotted knapweed and rough fescue. The experimental design included five plant combinations: spotted knapweed alone, rough fescue alone, two spotted knapweed, two rough fescue, one spotted knapweed and one rough fescue. The results of the greenhouse experiment showed that total biomass of spotted knapweed was greater than rough fescue at each N:P ratio when they were grown alone or grown under intraspecific condition. Also, results showed that the competitive effect of spotted knapweed was -0.136 ± 0.052 SE; while rough fescue has a facilitation effect of 0.020 ± 0.007 SE. Biochar addition had no effect on plant growth of spotted knapweed or rough fescue, or competitive interactions within and between the two plant species.

abstract: Soil properties

abstract: biomass

abstract: carryover effects

abstract: N:P ratio

abstract: biochar addition


title: Winter ecology of the North American Badger (Taxidea Taxus Jeffersonii) in the Cariboo Region of British Columbia

contributor: Thompson Rivers University Faculty of Science (Degree granting institution)

contributor: Carlyle-Moses, Darryl (dcarlyle) (committee member)

contributor: Flood, Nancy (nflood) (committee member)

format: electronic 112p electronic

subject: American badger -- Habitat -- British Columbia

subject: Winter -- British Columbia

subject: American badger -- Behavior -- British Columbia

abstract:
The purpose of this study was to examine the winter activities and burrow characteristics of North American badgers (Taxidea taxus jeffersonii). At the northern range-limit of these animals (British Columbia, Canada) winter is long and harsh and habitat patchy and atypical; thus, badgers may respond to winter differently here than elsewhere. Using radio-telemetry and remote-cameras, I documented winter activities of 16 badgers (12♀, 4♂) between 2007 and 2011. Similar to limited and anecdotal data collected elsewhere, badgers during winter reduced home range 3.5 (SD = 0.6) km2 and movements 110.5 (SD = 12.2) m /day and
intensively used burrows 1.3 (SD = 0.8) burrows per winter. Total winter burrow stay averaged 34 days (SD = 25.0) per winter and this use coincided with the onset of torpor (first week in January). Despite intensive burrow-use, badgers emerged frequently (0.30 ± 0.07 events/camera-night) and displayed foraging behaviour (mean foray length: 46.70 ± 65.44 min). Burrow emergence was not related to temperature or snow depth; rather it was best explained by the amount of time elapsed since the badger entered the burrow in mid-winter (Julian Day). Despite these trends, winter activity was quite variable among individual badgers. I also compared the thermal properties of the burrows used by the badgers to those previously used in summer or for rearing offspring (natal). As expected, all burrow temperatures remained relatively mild and constant throughout the winter; however, winter burrows were significantly cooler during this time than burrows that had been used in the previous summer, albeit a small difference (average 1.9o C). Snow depth at winter burrows did not differ from ‘summer burrows’, yet natal burrows had significantly less snow. Analysis revealed that soil fan size, number of entrances, horizontal cover, presence of infrastructure, and a coarse description of habitat differentiated seasonal burrow types relatively well. I suggest that individual variation (strategies) may be a response to local conditions. Relatively small, patchy, atypical habitat, in combination with extremely large summer home ranges may limit the ability of some animals to gain sufficient fat reserves, thus necessitating additional foraging during winter. Moreover, my research suggests that seasonal burrows differ with respect to measurable habitat features that can be used to identify and protect important burrows (natal and winter burrow). This study has been the first dedicated winter ecology study of free ranging North American badgers and has expanded our knowledge about the winter activities, movements and burrow use of this endangered species. As winter is a critical time in the life history of many mammals, an effective management plan will require an understating of species ecology across all seasons.

abstract: Taxidea taxus

abstract: winter

abstract: activity patterns

abstract: critical habitat

abstract: badger

abstract: species at risk

abstract: burrow

abstract: den


title: Facilitating native plant recovery on copper mine tailings in the semiarid grasslands of Southern Interior British Columbia

contributor: Fraser, Lauchlan (Lauchlan Fraser (lfraser)) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Pypker, Tom (Tom Pyper (tpyper)) (committee member)

contributor: Thompson Rivers University Department of Natural Resource Sciences (Degree granting institution)

format:
electronic
xii,  97 pages
electronic

subject: Grassland restoration -- British Columbia

subject: Grassland ecology -- British Columbia

subject: Tailings (Metallurgy) -- Environmental aspects

abstract: The semiarid grasslands of interior British Columbia (B.C.) are a unique ecosystem which provides an array of economic and ecological resources, but historic and current human and environmental pressures have led to their decline. Surface mining involves stripping the natural vegetation and topsoil, altering of natural topography, and deposition of waste materials (e.g. tailings and waste rock) at the landscape level. Restoration of natural soil processes and native vegetation communities on such sites is challenging because 1) the mine soils are often characterized by having adverse physiochemical properties such as high metals content, extreme pH, and low organic matter, 2) there are barriers to native seed acquisition and native species do not perform well on nutrient poor sites, and 3) seedling germination and establishment is limited in semiarid environments because of prevailing harsh climatic conditions. The primary objectives at the onset of mine reclamation are to ameliorate the physical and chemical properties of the soils (usually with an organic amendment) and establish a sustainable vegetative cover to prevent wind and water erosion of metals and other harmful contaminants (a process known as phytostabilization). Facilitation by nurse plants and cover crops has recently come to the forefront as a potentially promising practice for restoring natural communities on degraded sites in stressful environments. The objectives of this thesis were to 1) investigate the suitability of locally available organic soil amendments and native bunchgrasses (Pseudoroegneria spicata and Festuca campestris) for reclamation at the Historic Afton Tailings Storage Facility (TSF), near Kamloops, B.C., in a greenhouse study and 2) assess the facilitative effects of soil amendments, Artemesia tridentata nurse plants, and agronomic cover crops on various abiotic and biotic parameters relating to native grassland species establishment at the TSF. In the greenhouse, plants were grown in various ash-compost-wood chip combinations and were evaluated using a randomized complete block design with 13 treatments and 10 replicates. In the field, native plants were seeded in small (1.23 m2) study plots with cover crops and/or planted with nurse plants in amended tailings and assessed in a randomized complete block design with 8 treatments and 3 replicates. The results of the greenhouse study indicated that compost was the most effective amendment, as it effectively ameliorated tailings physiochemical properties and promoted significantly greater seedling production. Analysis of shoot tissue elemental concentrations after 90 d growth determined that both species were not suitable candidates for phytostabilization because they accumulated high amounts of molybdenum. Artemisia tridentata nurse plants appeared to exert some facilitative effects including shading which resulted in lower soil temperatures early in the growing season, but there was also some evidence that they competed for soil moisture. Nonetheless, plant species diversity was higher under nurse plants compared to in the open, which indicated that some facilitative mechanisms may be at play. Cover crops appeared to have a negative effect on native plant establishment which was likely because of their aggressive growth characteristics and increased competition for soil moisture. The findings of this study provide important considerations for mine restoration practices in B.C.’s semiarid grasslands.

abstract: native species

abstract: Facilitation

abstract: nurse plants

abstract: cover crops

abstract: soil amendments

abstract: semiarid grassland