title: Human behaviour and perceptions of outdoor pet cats in an urban environment

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

format:
electronic
viii, 132 pages

subject: Cat owners -- British Columbia -- Kamloops

subject: Cats -- Control -- Environmental aspects

abstract: The risks that face both wildlife and cats while cats are outside unsupervised is high and momentum surrounding the global issue of outdoor domestic cats (Felis catus) and their impact on wildlife, especially birds, is gaining the attention of experts working in the fields of wildlife conservation and animal welfare. The purpose of this research is to gain an understanding of cat owner behaviour, and the views of non-cat owners and their role, with respect to outdoor pet cats, in the community of Kamloops, BC. The thesis chapters include views and opinions about wildlife and outdoor pet cats and their owners in general, as well as an analysis of Kamloops residents’ perceptions of the risks outdoor pet cats impose on the environment and incur while outdoors. It explores economic theories, such as, the value of a statistical life of a cat, negative externalities and Coase Theorem. An online survey was used for data collection; 584 valid survey responses were received and respondents were comprised of 155 outdoor cat owners, 221 indoor cat owners and 208 non-cat owners. Key findings include: the outdoor cat owners, despite their perceived risks, see outdoor pet cats living happier lives, and that they play a useful role as predators; the average value of a statistical life of a cat in Kamloops is $7,485 to $8,726; nearly 40 percent of the outdoor cat owners are willing to reduce the number of hours they allow their cat outdoors unrestricted/unsupervised to keep their cat safe; and 37 percent of non-cat owners are willing to pay to keep their neighbours cat in the cat owner’s yard. Coase Theorem application suggests the solution that would create the least conflict in the community, yet still allow the cat owners to have supervised outdoor cats, is with the application of a bylaw coupled with licensing. In general, though, cat owners do not see how licensing would be useful. The best immediate use of limited resources that will be impact-driven and community-specific, will be a campaign targeting potential cat owners and new cat owners, while working towards a longer term solution that includes mandatory licensing, a bylaw, and delivery of practical information for cat owners on how to keep their cat under their care and control while outdoors.

abstract: Cat owner behaviour

abstract: Outdoor pet cats

abstract: Negative externalities

abstract: Coase Thoerem

abstract: Conservation

abstract: Community

abstract: Licensing

abstract: Value of a statistical life of a cat


title: Effects of disturbance on the Northern Pacific Rattlesnake (Crotalus Oreganus Oreganus) in British Columbia

type: Text thesis

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

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

format: electronic 107p electronic

subject: Northern pacific rattlesnake -- British Columbia -- Osoyoos

subject: Northern pacific rattlesnake -- Effects of human beings on

abstract: The indirect effects of anthropogenic disturbances on wildlife are relatively difficult to detect, much less study, yet understanding these more subtle influences are particularly critical for the conservation of species-at-risk. In this study, I used radio-telemetry and mark-recapture methods to investigate the indirect effects of human disturbance and habitat development on the body characteristics, behaviour, and spatial ecology of a population of rattlesnakes (a threatened species) in Osoyoos, British Columbia. I collected data in 2010 and 2011 to augment a data set spanning 2002 to 2012. Individuals in highly disturbed landscapes had lower body condition than snakes in other areas, and lost body weight over the foraging season. Strong trends in spatial ecology parameters across disturbance gradients were not apparent, although snakes in disturbed sites tended to have smaller core areas, shorter range lengths, and took a greater number of days to travel a given distance than snakes in less-disturbed habitat. No major differences were observed in snake behaviour, exposure risk, or other spatial ecology parameters among habitats under different disturbance pressures. Wildlife managers can apply the results of this study to put recovery goals into action for the Northern Pacific Rattlesnake. The findings also contribute to our understanding of how wildlife may be impacted in discrete ways within disturbed habitat, and highlight the importance of using multiple indicators to assess stability of animal populations.

abstract: Northern Pacific Rattlesnake

abstract: Crotalus oreganus oreganus

abstract: British Columbia

abstract: disturbance

abstract: habitat fragmentation

abstract: body condition

abstract: spatial ecology

abstract: radio-telemetry


title: Music festivals in British Columbia: Examining stakeholder relations to build effective partnerships and foster sustainability

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

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

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

format:
electronic
vi, 90 pages
electronic

subject:
Music festivals -- Environment
Music festivals -- Sustainability
Tourism -- British Columbia

abstract: Music festivals are increasing in both popularity and diversity around the globe, due at least in part to their economic potential. A well planned and marketed festival can be a driver of community tourism and business growth. They can also strengthen the artistic culture and provide attendees with a highly sought after and unique experience. However, festivals are also known for producing waste and pollution, causing rifts in communities, and commonly running deficits. Current literature on festivals outline environmental implications, the importance of providing benefits to all stakeholders, and the need to fulfill economic potentials. Yet environmental issues persist and many festivals are viewed as unsuccessful on multiple fronts. Presently there is a major gap in the research on sustainable practices of festivals in Canada, with a particularly scarcity in British Columbia. This research reviews existing practices of music festivals within British Columbia, draws comparisons to those covered in the literature and evaluates the barriers and drivers of environmentalism faced by festival management. The thesis also addresses issues of sustainability by exploring the relationships between stakeholders and festival management, and assessing the way they shape environmental decisions and foster strong partnerships. A community-based participatory framework guides the study, using qualitative research methods in the form of in-depth interviews and surveys at three separate festivals within the interior of BC. This research demonstrates that a thorough understanding of these relationships can lead to partnerships that will create attainable environmental, economic, and sustainability goals. With escalating international competition for resources and a growing need to protect our natural environment, it is even more important for events to have the support of all those directly and indirectly impacted. This research fills a significant gap in festival literature and makes sound recommendations to improve stakeholder management practices and related environmental policies.

abstract: tourism industries

abstract: festivals

abstract: sustainability

abstract: environmental practices

abstract: community-based research

abstract: stakeholder relationships

abstract: power relations


title: Rainfall redistribution by the canopy of a juvenile lodgepole pine stand

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

contributor: Pypker, Thomas G. (tpypker) (committee member)

format: 71p electronic electronic

subject: Throughfall -- British Columbia

subject: Lodgepole pine -- British Columbia

subject: Forest canopies -- Research -- British Columbia

abstract: From May to October 2010, throughfall associated with 38 rainfall events in three below-canopy zones (inner-canopy, mid-canopy, and canopy-periphery) of nine juvenile lodgepole pine trees and in open areas between canopies was measured along north, south, east and west transects radiating from each tree bole. Median cumulative throughfall (%) significantly differed among the canopy zones under differing rain depth classes and was negatively correlated with tree size metrics, but only for certain combinations of canopy zones and rain depth classes. Although median cumulative throughfall (%) was negatively correlated with canopy cover fraction when all below-canopy gauges were considered, this relationship only held true for the inner- and mid-canopy zones under relatively small rain depth classes. Additionally, cumulative throughfall (%) was often dependent on transect direction, with event throughfall showing a dependence on the direction of storm origin. Temporal persistence of throughfall was assessed using time stability plots and Spearman rank coefficients of rain event and depth class pairings for all gauges and by canopy zone. The influence of temporal lag and meteorological variables on persistence was also assessed. The implications of our findings on throughfall sampling and for future ecohydrological studies in juvenile lodgepole pine and similar stands are discussed. Additionally, stemflow was measured so that a full canopy water balance could be derived for each event and over the study period. Canopy interception loss, throughfall and stemflow accounted for 87.7, 10.5, and 1.8% of the study-period rainfall, respectfully. Both the reformulated Gash and reformulated Liu models were found to have satisfactory simulated study-period interception loss; however, estimates at the rain-event scale were often poor. Interception loss from the juvenile stand is largely a factor of canopy cover fraction and relatively high during-rainfall evaporation rates.


title: Columbia River northern pike: Investigating the ecology of British Columbia's new apex invasive freshwater predator

contributor: Van Hamme, Jonathan (jvanhamme) (committee member)

format:
electronic
xi, 79 pages

subject: Pike -- Control -- British Columbia -- Columbia River

subject: Top predators -- British Columbia -- Columbia River

subject: Introduced freshwater organisms -- British Columbia -- Columbia River

abstract: Northern pike (Esox lucius) is a widely distributed freshwater fish in the northern hemisphere, holding both recreational and commercial value in many countries including Canada. Pike are apex predators and are well regarded as a sport fish due to their size and voraciousness, leading to a long history of introductions outside their native range in North America. Invasive pike populations can impose significant top-down pressure on native fish community structure through predation and competition for resources, and have been linked with significant reductions of a variety of native species. Pike have recently invaded the Columbia River in British Columbia downstream of the Hugh L. Keenleyside Dam, threatening important sport fisheries, local ecosystems, and Species at Risk recovery work currently being conducted in the Columbia and its tributaries. In response to the invasion, the province implemented a pike suppression program, yet several questions remain regarding the ecology and behaviour of the recently colonized population. This research aimed to answer these questions and aid in the development of a long term management strategy for the Columbia River. Four years of data collected through the suppression program were analyzed to investigate the potential risk the invasion poses to native fish communities in B.C., the status of pike in the B.C. Columbia River, and the efficacy and impacts of current efforts. A total of 352 northern pike were captured through the suppression program by gill-netting (n=323) and angler incentives (n=29), ranging in length from 260 mm to 1050 mm. Cleithra age estimates indicate pike from within this population are achieving sizes in excess of 1 m in five to six years, and are in better than average body condition (relative weight Wr used) when compared to other North American populations. A total of 584, 659, 407, and 676 gill-net hours were set in 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017 respectively, and an overall reduction in pike catch per unit effort (CPUE) was observed from the initial year (0.19 pike/hr) to the final year (0.05 pike/hr). This suggests gill-netting has been effective at reducing the number of adult pike in B.C. and should be conducted annually. The capture of several juvenile pike (n = 14) near Castlegar in 2017 indicates spawning is occurring in B.C. and future years of suppression should include controlling the juvenile cohort. Salmonids, particularly whitefish spp., appear to be at the greatest risk from pike predation making up approximately 50% of pike diet overall. Acoustic tracking of pike indicated the majority of individuals from within this population remain relatively sedentary, yet one individual migrated in excess of 100 km between B.C. and Washington. Microchemical analysis of pike otoliths revealed significant differences in ratios of Sr and Ba to Ca between pike caught in the Columbia and Pend d’Oreille Rivers, and that a small portion of the current Columbia population in B.C. appears to have originated in the Pend d’Oreille River. Fluctuations in otolith elemental Mg concentrations also appear to provide information that can be used to estimate the age of northern pike and potentially other esocid species. Lastly, the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling as a tool to monitor the presence and spread of northern pike in B.C. was explored with minimal success; the protocol used and results obtained are discussed.

abstract: Esox lucius

abstract: northern pike

abstract: invasive species

abstract: fisheries management

abstract: acoustic telemetry

abstract: otolith microchemistry


title: Environmental determinants of reproductive success in cavity nesting songbirds of a semi-arid grassland in British Columbia

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

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

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

format: electronic 83p electronic

subject: Mountain bluebird -- Reproduction -- British Columbia

subject: Tree swallow-- Reproduction -- British Columbia

subject: Kamloops Region (B.C.) -- Climate

subject: Birdhouses -- Design and construction

subject: Grasslands -- British Columbia -- Thompson Country

abstract:
I investigated the influence of regional climate, local weather, and nest box features on the reproductive success of mountain bluebirds (Sialia currucoides)
and tree swallows (Tachycineta bicolor). I also evaluated the relative influence of local weather and parental care behaviour on mountain bluebird nestling growth
and mortality. My results demonstrate that local weather can strongly influence the breeding performance of mountain bluebirds, with improved reproductive
success during years of less rainfall. I conclude that this influence is likely exerted directly through acute nestling mortality rather than through nestling growth and prolonged nestling stress. As well, I show that regional climate plays an important role in tree swallow reproductive success, with improved tree swallow breeding performance during years of lower Southern Oscillation Index values (El Niño conditions). I suggest that the affect of regional climate on tree swallow reproductive success is likely due to influences that ENSO and regional climatic patterns may have on the aerial insect prey base of tree swallows in our study region near Kamloops, BC. For mountain bluebirds, I found the influence of weather on reproductive success is dependent on nest box features, including nest box entrance type. This study has implications for conservationists and managers of grassland passerines in British Columbia and beyond, especially in light of global climate change.

abstract: mountain bluebirds

abstract: tree swallows

abstract: reproductive success

abstract: grasslands

abstract: climate

abstract: weather

abstract: nest box

abstract: parental care


title: Habitat selection of the great basin spadefoot (spea intermontana) in the grasslands of British Columbia

contributor: Pypker, Tom (tpypker) (committee member)

subject: Great Basin spadefoot -- British Columbia

abstract: Wetlands and their surrounding upland areas provide crucial habitat for the Great Basin Spadefoot (Spea intermontana), a species at risk in the grasslands of the southern interior of British Columbia (BC), Canada.  Understanding habitat selection and how these animals respond to change is crucial in the creation and implementation of conservation plans for this species.  I studied the habitat selection of the Great Basin Spadefoot in the grasslands surrounding the New Gold - New Afton Mine, located approximately 10 km from Kamloops, BC.  The objectives of my study were to (1) determine what type of breeding ponds spadefoots were using, (2) determine if artificial ponds could be used as a management tool, (3) determine desirable adult daytime retreat site features and decipher movement patterns to predict habitat use, and (4) determine microhabitat preferences of newly-metamorphosed spadefoots.  To analyze breeding pond selection, 18 ponds on the mine site were surveyed.  There was no significant difference between breeding (n=10) and non-breeding ponds (n=8) for any of the water or pond characteristics measured.  Eight artificial ponds were also constructed in November 2013, and spadefoots bred in four of the eight novel ponds the following spring.  Throughout the 2013 and 2014 activity seasons, radio-telemetry was used to locate daytime retreat sites and monitor movements of 33 adult animals.  The maximum and mean maximum straight-line distance (m) travelled by adult spadefoots from their breeding ponds was 506 m and 240 m  146 SD.  The telemetered animals relocated between retreat sites, often returning to burrows used previously.  There was no significant difference, in respect to soil moisture, aspect, slope or percent ground cover, between used and available habitat plots.  I also conducted a microhabitat study, within artificial enclosures, that revealed that newly-metamorphosed spadefoots preferred terrestrial habitat with moist cover.  Aside from this narrow window of vulnerability, my study indicates that this species has the ability to inhabit and persist in drier, altered grassland habitats in this region through a very plastic response to a wide range of conditions.

abstract: Great Basin Spadefoot

abstract: Spea intermontana

abstract: British Columbia

abstract: radio-telemetry

abstract: metamorph

abstract: plasticity

abstract: habitat

abstract: disturbance

abstract: artificial ponds


title: Behaviour, gastrointestinal parasites, and stress hormones of the South Thompson California Bighorn Sheep (Ovis canadensis) herd

contributor: Gardner, Wendy (wgardner) (thesis advisor)

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

format: electronic 99p electronic

subject: Bighorn sheep -- British Columbia

subject: Bighorn sheep -- Population -- British Columbia

subject: Bighorn sheep -- Behaviour --  British Columbia

subject: Bighorn sheep -- Diseases -- British Columbia

abstract: Bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) populations are characterized by drastic all-age respiratory disease related die-offs. Conservation efforts and management are often limited by the vulnerability of bighorn sheep to a multitude of pathogens and concurrent natural and anthropogenic stressors. Furthermore, the effects of human development, infrastructure and activities on local bighorn sheep behaviour, physiology, and population demographics are not fully understood. There is an urgency to determine the mechanisms accountable for bighorn sheep population declines and to understand the dynamics of local populations in order to effectively manage sustainable populations. The South Thompson California bighorn sheep herd located in the southern interior of British Columbia has been rapidly increasing in numbers and is considered a resident herd remaining in the same general area year round. The abundance of sheep and their use of human-developed areas raise concerns regarding the effects of anthropogenic pressures, the capacity of the habitat to sustain the population, and the vulnerability of the herd to a die-off. The specific thesis objectives were: (1) determine whether behaviours are affected by habitat, season, and sex with a focus on developed landscapes; and (2) compare gastrointestinal parasitology and physiological stress levels of ewes in three areas by season and anthropogenic influence to evaluate the impacts of human development. From summer 2008 to fall 2009, behaviour observations were collected from unmarked individuals from the South Thompson herd. During the spring, summer, and fall of 2009, 90 fecal pellet samples were collected opportunistically and noninvasively from unmarked ewes. The frequency of various behavioural categories differed seasonally, among habitat types, and between sexes. The gastrointestinal parasite levels varied by season and location; whereas, stress hormones varied only by location. Based on the behavioural observation results, the urban and agricultural developed lands appear to be an integral part of the South Thompson range. Presently this may be having a positive effect on the herd health by providing high quality forage at key times. However, the population numbers are increasing and this may lead to issues associated with overcrowding. Additionally, land use changes that result in reduced access to these lands may have a major impact on the herd. Parasites were found in all of the bighorn sheep including those in a remote area. Similar results have been reported from other bighorn sheep populations and the presence of gastrointestinal parasites alone does not appear to be a major contributing factor to die-offs. However, if the population continues to expand, or if portions of their range become unavailable, parasite loadings could contribute to health problems. This may be exacerbated if habitat use by bighorn sheep becomes concentrated in the developed areas. Stress hormones were not significantly higher for the bighorn sheep using the developed areas compared to the remote area. However, as numbers increase and more development occurs it will be important to continue to monitor gastrointestinal parasites and stress levels as they may indicate potential problem developing. The results of this study support herd-specific management efforts, help with the development of land use guidelines, aid prioritization of stewardship activities, and identify knowledge gaps for the South Thompson herd.

abstract: California bighorn sheep

abstract: Ovis canadensis california

abstract: behaviour

abstract: gastrointestinal parasites

abstract: stress hormones

abstract: fecal glucocorticoid concentrations

abstract: British Columbia

abstract: habitat

abstract: urban ungulate


title: Assessing the efficacy of buffer strips in sustaining bryophyte diversity in montane forests in the British Columbia interior

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

contributor: Karakatsoulis, John (jkarakatsoulis) (committee member)

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

contributor: Baldwin, Lyn (lybaldwin) (thesis advisor)

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

format: electronic 155p electronic

subject:
Riprarian areas -- British Columbia
Riparian ecology -- British Columbia
Streams -- British Columbia

abstract:
Small mountain streams are neglected under current BC forestry regulations.  Debate exists over buffer widths necessary to maintain floristic diversity.  The effectiveness of canopy treatments (clear-cut, one-sided or two-sided buffers and continuous forest) and buffer width in maintaining riparian bryophyte diversity and promoting community reassembly in adjacent harvested uplands was examined using 30 Interior Montane Spruce sites.  Analysis found frequency and
richness of old-growth associated groups (liverworts, perennial stayers, closed canopy, humus or log species) was maintained with buffers (one sided and two-sided).  Disturbance associated groups (colonists, open canopy and mineral soil/rock species) were more abundant in clear-cut riparian sites.  Ordination found buffer width and canopy cover within 50 m radius affected bryophytes in riparian sites with buffers, whereas disturbance variables affected composition in clear-
cut riparian sites.  Regressions showed the importance of habitat quality variables (soft CWD and concavity).  A buffer had no effect on community reassembly in the uplands.

abstract: small stream

abstract: riparian

abstract: buffer

abstract: bryophyte

abstract: functional groups


title: Feeding ecology and movement of introduced yellow perch (Perca flavescens) in BC lakes

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

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

format: electronic 114p electronic

subject: Yellow perch -- British Columbia -- Okanagan Region

subject: Introduced fishes -- Environmental aspects -- British Columbia

subject: Fishes -- Nutrition

subject: Fishes -- Spawing -- British Columbia

abstract:
Yellow perch (Perca flavescens) are a non-native species in most areas of British Columbia (BC) and could impact those ecosystems where they are introduced. To
address this, I investigated seasonal diet composition and basic movement of introduced yellow perch in lakes within the Okanagan Region of British Columbia. In addition, a trial of the use of artificial spawning substrates as a potential method of removing eggs was completed. Diet composition was determined during five seasonal sampling periods, by counting and identifying items within perch stomachs. I compared diet composition among lakes, and among seasons and size classes within each lake using a multivariate analysis. Diet composition of yellow perch varied by lake. Most notably, yellow perch diets did not include juvenile fishes in several lakes, but the fish consumed large proportions of zooplankton. It is possible that diet composition of introduced yellow perch could be predicted based on presence or absence of predators and refugia for prey species. Prey selectivity and diet overlap with rainbow trout was also determined. Prey selectivity of perch varied among study lakes and seasons. Significant diet overlap between yellow perch and rainbow trout occurred in one of two lakes tested, likely lake-specific due to variable strains of rainbow trout stocked. Radio telemetry showed that in summer, yellow perch were found relatively close to shore, with no significant difference found among time periods within a 24-hour tracking session. In spring, yellow perch were significantly farther from shore when ice was covering the lake, and moved closer to shore as the ice receded. This coincided with the beginning of the spawning season at temperatures of 3.8 °C, the lowest end of the known spawning temperature range. Trials using artificial spawning substrates were successful. Perch spawned multiple times on all artificial spawning substrates and eggs were removed from the lake in an attempt to reduce spawning success. Overall, yellow perch displayed the expected characteristics of
a generalist species across all study lakes, as would be expected in their native range; however, some specialization within specific lakes was observed.

abstract: Perca flavescens

abstract: yellow perch

abstract: introduced species

abstract: British Columbia

abstract: spawning timing

abstract: movement

abstract: prey selection

abstract: diet composition


title: Regional frequency analysis of seasonal rainfall and snowfall for the southern interior of British Columbia

contributor: Rollans, Shane (rollans) (committee member)

format: 86p electronic electronic

subject: Rainfall anomalies -- British Columbia

subject: Snow -- British Columbia

subject: Precipitation anomalies -- British Columbia

abstract: Extreme precipitation events are rare in nature, but they can have a strong impact on society. Canada’s adaptation policies for these extreme events require the availability of precise, up-to-date quantile estimates that relate event magnitudes to probabilities of occurrence. This study developed seasonal maximum daily rainfall and snowfall quantile estimates for the southern interior of British Columbia. This area has complex precipitation patterns and proved to be an excellent site for studying extreme rainfall and snowfall. Instead of the more traditional at-site analysis using method of moment estimators, a regional frequency analysis approach based on L-moments was used. Seasonal rainfall and snowfall data were selected to provide a finer delineation of events and examine the variation in extreme precipitation type during the year. A serial dependence analysis done as part of the regional frequency analysis screening process concluded that overall there appeared to be no change in the frequency of seasonal extreme rainfall or snowfall events for the study area. Homogeneous regions were successfully developed using a cluster analysis and extensive manual refinement. These regions were overall geographically cohesive and reflected the local valley systems. A few regions with high elevation stations were geographically dispersive possibly due to the influence of the freezing level on precipitation type. Regional quantiles estimates with associated root mean square errors and 90% error bounds were developed for fall, spring and summer rainfall data and winter snowfall data. A comparison of select regional and at-site estimations showed quantiles for both methods were comparable, but almost all regional estimations had significantly lower root mean square errors by a factor of 1.5 to 5.0 when compared to at-site estimations. This comparison demonstrates that a regional frequency analysis develops quantile estimates more precise than at-site estimates for the southern interior of British Columbia.

abstract: rainfall

abstract: snowfall

abstract: extreme precipitation

abstract: regional frequency analysis

abstract: L-moments

abstract: index-flood

abstract: serial dependence

abstract: quantiles


title: A comparison of temperature and salinity conditions on the east and west coasts of Vancouver Island: Implications for intertidal invertebrate population persistence in the face of climate change

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

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

contributor: Rollans, Shane (srollans) (committee member)

format:
electronic
xiv, 86

subject: Ocean temperature -- British Columbia -- Vancouver Island

subject: Ocean salinity -- British Columbia -- Vancouver Island

subject: Intertidal animals -- Climatic factors -- British Columbia -- Vancouver Island

abstract: Climate change is altering the physical and chemical conditions of ocean habitats, including changes to seawater temperature, pH and salinity. Such changes to ocean conditions have the potential to impact marine organisms by altering population abundance or by driving evolutionary change in adaptive traits. The rate at which these abiotic conditions change is important, as this may determine whether populations adapt or are extirpated. Given the significant effects of temperature and salinity on the physiology and performance of marine animals, knowledge of temporal trends and the extent of spatial variations in these conditions is essential to understand the selective pressures that have influenced the evolution of extant populations and to make predictions regarding their persistence in the face of climate change. Therefore, to improve our understanding of the regional climate conditions on the southern coast of Vancouver Island, I have (1) characterized the long-term trends in sea surface temperature (SST) and salinity (SSS) experienced by coastal marine animals during the most stressful time of year, and (2) documented variation between east and west coasts of Vancouver Island in terms of SST, SSS, and intertidal rock surface temperature during low-tide emersion. I then examined the effects of the distinct local climate conditions on east and west coasts on the tolerance thresholds of populations on each coast. Using a series of common garden experiments, the tolerance thresholds of populations of four benthic intertidal invertebrates (Littorina scutulata, Littorina sitkana, Balanus glandula and Nucella lamellosa) were determined for (1) elevated temperature during low tide emersion, (2) elevated water temperature, and (3) low salinity.  This study found that over an 82 y period, from 1935 to 2016, summertime SST on both coasts increased by 0.67– 0.78 °C (i.e. 0.82 – 0.97 °C per century). Trends in salinity differed between coasts: east coast salinity increased by 3.9 PSU while west coast salinity decreased by 0.64 PSU.  Although long-term SST trends are the same on both coasts, east coast waters are on average 4.3 °C warmer, and salinity is 7.8 PSU lower, than on the west coast. Rock temperature in the mid and upper intertidal zone during daytime low tides is 3.9 – 4.2 °C warmer on the east coast. Populations of marine organisms inhabiting the coasts of Vancouver Island have therefore been experiencing long-term changes in abiotic stress as well as persistent spatial variation in climate-related conditions during the most stressful months of the year.  Laboratory experiments revealed three important findings regarding population tolerance thresholds to SST, SSS and emersion temperature among marine invertebrate species. Firstly, substantial differences in tolerance to increased SST and emersion temperature conditions were discovered between species, secondly, similar tolerances to the abiotic parameters existed between east and west coast populations of species, and finally, acute exposure to increased SST and emersion temperature or decreased SSS conditions is not an immediate threat to the populations studied. Overall, it appears that populations are living well within their tolerance limits and their present-day tolerances are well-suited to withstand the predicted changes in ocean conditions.

abstract: Population persistence

abstract: Northeast Pacific

abstract: Acute environmental stress

abstract: Climate change

abstract: Climate change variability


title: Modeling lodgepole pine silvopastures in south central British Columbia

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

contributor: Androkovich, Robert (randrokovich) (committee member)

contributor: Newman, Reg (rnewman) (committee member)

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

contributor: Church, John (jchurch) (committee member)

contributor: Noakes, Donald (dnoakes) (committee member)

format: electronic 67p electronic

subject: Silvopastoral systems -- British Columbia

subject: Lodgepole pine -- British Columbia

subject: Lodgepole pine -- Spacing -- British Columbia

abstract:
Silvopasture systems within lodgepole pine stands in British Columbia are not widely implemented because knowledge is lacking on profitability, appropriate tree and cattle stocking standards, and the suitability and potential of understory forage species in silvopasture systems. In order to compare total timber and forage production values of single-crop tree plantations with those of silvopasture systems, this study consists of: 1) a theoretical economic model (the Lodgepole pine Silvopasture Economic Model) that predicts revenues expected for tree-only, pasture-only, and both uniform- and clumped-tree distribution silvopasture systems, and 2) a screening of native and agronomic forage species under simulated shade conditions to compare forage quantity and quality for grazing beef cattle. The Lodgepole pine Silvopasture Economic Model relies on a constant supply of mean production values projected into the future to estimate and compare the yield and value of resource commodities. The objectives of the forage screening component were to compare agronomic and native grass biomass production and forage quality, and study the effects of shading, clipping, and their interaction, on pinegrass and rough fescue, two species native to British Columbia, and the agronomic forages orchardgrass and perennial ryegrass. Some morphological changes under shade were noticed in this study, but the effects were minimal
in comparison to differences in biomass production between species. The study clearly demonstrated the high productivity of orchardgrass compared to pinegrass and rough fescue as orchardgrass plants produced a total of 11 and 9 times more total biomass than pinegrass and rough fescue under ambient sunlight, but the differences between species factors tended to decrease with increasing shade. The benefit of improved forage production using agronomic species in clumped distribution lodgepole pine silvopasture systems has the potential to provide sizeable benefits to the ranching industry while diversifying resource commodities in lodgepole pine stands.


title: Syrian refugee women's perspectives about their mental health and well-being

contributor: Blackstock, Sheila (sblackstock) (committee member)

contributor: Thompson Rivers University School of Nursing (Degree granting institution)

format:
electronic
x, 160 pages

subject: Women refugees -- Medical care -- Canada

subject: Women refugees -- Mental health -- Canada

abstract: The prolonged state of civil war in Syria has caused a large influx of Syrian refugees in Canada. Refugees may face overwhelming stress in migration and resettlement that can contribute to the development of poor health and mental health outcomes. The purpose of this research was to explore Syrian refugee women’s unique perspectives around their mental health and well-being in the resettlement period. In-depth interviews were used to obtain information about women’s experiences with mental health services and the contextual factors that influence their health and well-being in resettlement. The study’s findings will inform culturally safe mental healthcare services and healthy public policy.

abstract: Syrian refugee women

abstract: mental health

abstract: well-being

abstract: social supports

abstract: resettlement


title: Capital structure and financial performance of micro-finance institutions (MFIS) in Bangladesh

contributor: Hossain, Belayet (bhossein) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Dewan, Hasnat (hdewan) (committee member)

contributor: Thompson Rivers University School of Business and Economics (Degree granting institution)

format:
electronic
viii, 41 pages

subject: Microfinance -- Bangladesh

abstract: This study identifies the effects of capital structure on the financial performance of Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) in Bangladesh. A dataset of 187 MFIs developed by UK donor agencies with the collaboration of The Institute for Inclusive Finance and Development, InM was used to study the relationship between Capital Structure and Financial Performance of MFIs from Bangladesh. Panel data regression analysis was used for this study using the Random effect and Fixed effect models. Return on Asset (ROA), and Net Income to Expenditure (NIER) are used as measures of financial performance. The findings indicate that Equity to Asset Ratio (EAR), Debt to Loan Ratio (DTL), Risk, and Size are the factors that influence NIER. Furthermore, EAR, and DTL have a positive effect on ROA and Risk has a negative effect. The findings have implications for policymakers and management of MFIs for attaining sustainable financial performance with optimum debt and equity portfolios.

abstract: Microfinance institutions

abstract: Microcredit

abstract: Capital structure

abstract: Financial performance


title: Illuminating regional identity: An interdisciplinary exploration in Saskatchewan

contributor: Sanchez-Flores, Monica (msanchez-flores) (committee member)

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

subject: Identity (Psychology) -- Saskatchewan

abstract: Both inside and outside of academia, people have sought to understand the “sense of place” of various regions, many times over and for many different reasons. The concept of regional identity is highly complex and surrounded by considerable contention. There are multiple bodies of research on regional identity theory in many different disciplines and even across sub-disciplinary classifications. Each discipline takes a slightly different angle or perspective on regional identity, resulting in a fragmented body of work on this topic overall. There is a need to consolidate this body of increasingly fragmented theory through interdisciplinary integration. For the purpose of this study, the province of Saskatchewan will serve as an exemplar for exploring regional identity in a concrete context. Saskatchewan can be thought of as a ‘functional region,’ with clear boundaries and clear residency, from which regional identity can be studied. This thesis shares the outcomes of a qualitative study grounded in a series of group interviews with Saskatchewan residents, from which it is concluded that the use of interdisciplinary theory is an appropriate approach to the study of regional identity. Regional identity cannot be compartmentalized; it is a web of characteristics, attributes, and feelings that are inextricably linked. The thesis thus concludes by offering lessons learned about how we might better understand regional identity, as illuminated through both interdisciplinary theory and the lived experiences and imaginations of people living in the region of Saskatchewan.

abstract: Saskatchewan

abstract: Interdisciplinary

abstract: Regional Identity


title: Exploring environmental practices within the sea to sky’s commercial rafting industry

contributor: Rodger, James (James Rodger (jrodger)) (thesis advisor)

format:
electronic
72 pages

subject:
Climatic changes -- British Columbia
Tourism -- British Columbia
Rafting (Sports) -- British Columbia

abstract: This inquiry uses the ethical argument that everyone bears responsibility for the current climate crisis as inspiration to examine the whitewater rafting industry in the Sea to Sky of British Columbia. The Sea to Sky, an area north of Vancouver, is known for its natural scenery and tourism value. It is also where the author has been employed over the summer and his first-hand knowledge is used in this project to provide extra depth of understanding. Using the existing literature, this thesis argues that rafting operations have both a self-interest in developing, and duty to develop, environmentally responsible practices. Through interviews and qualitative analysis, this thesis investigates environmentally responsible behavior practiced within the Sea to Sky’s rafting industry, and the motivations that operators feel concerning the environment. The thesis examines existing practices in adjacent industries to gain perspective on the themes identified in the primary research. Conclusions are created through a comparison of the current practices of the Sea to Sky’s rafting industry and suggestions are generated for companies seeking to improve their own environmental practices.

abstract: rafting

abstract: sustainable tourism

abstract: adventure tourism

abstract: environmentally responsible behaviour

abstract: British Columbia


title: Integrating Indigenous sustainability values into housing on reserve

contributor: Light, Tracey P. (tlight) (committee member)

contributor: Naepi, Sereana (snaepi) (committee member)

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

subject: Indigenous peoples -- British Columbia -- Housing

subject: Sustainable development -- British Columbia

abstract: As part of the Interdisciplinary Studies program, I have created a thesis on traditional environmental sustainability and ways we can practice stewardship in the housing system on reserves. Given that ecological sustainability is also vital for sustainable culture, health, and spirituality, it is becoming a priority for many nations. I am going to put the argument forward to start implementing sustainable values into reserve homes in modern ways to help heal mother earth, but also to improve our connections to her as we modify or tear down these literal colonial structures to make room for more awareness of the environment within our homes. I examine the current state of housing in Indigenous communities, examine current usage of sustainable building practices, and explain how a larger adoption of sustainable building practices will both combat housing problems and help live better in tune to traditional teachings. The housing problems on reserves continues to be a major issue with no clear solution; I believe this needs to be addressed with more creative ideas to increase the well being of Indigenous peoples.This paper shows that other options are possible for hosing in BC that can provide a better relationship with the earth and can be done using the natural and human resources within the community.


title: Benefits and practices of adventure therapy for adults

contributor: More, Jeffrey (jmore) (committee member)

contributor: Goddard, Jay (jgoddard) (committee member)

contributor: Dominik, Annette (adominik) (committee member)

format:
electronic
65 pages

subject: Adventure therapy -- Canada

abstract: How does a secure wilderness environment, where one feels safe and all needs are met, affect one's mental state? Building on this topic, what are some effective practices used to achieve a positive impact on one's mental state? Through further understanding of this topic, we can better design effective programs for facilitating therapy within a wilderness setting that would most benefit the participants. There are many benefits of adventure therapy including the presence of a wilderness environment and the use of adventure activities. These factors help to increase the effectiveness of the therapy sessions given in these programs. Currently, there is very little research available as to what are the most effective practices for adventure therapy programs. To gain a better understanding of the practices and techniques that are currently being used, a short questionnaire was sent out to Canadian adventure therapy companies. Data from this questionnaire and the literature showed that hiking is the most effective activity to use in adventure therapy programming. As well, the ideal length of a trip can vary for markets but ranges from 1 to 10 days. The ideal group size also varies with the market and can be anywhere from 4-10 participants with a ratio of 2:1 participants to instructor or higher for more independent markets. Overall, there are many different markets that can benefit from adventure therapy and the exact programming will shift to best suit each market.

abstract: Adventure therapy for adults

abstract: Adventure Therapy

abstract: Benefits of adventure therapy

abstract: Best practices of adventure therapy


title: The development of ego-resiliency and self-regulation and the transition to primary school

contributor: Roberts, William (wroberts) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Calder Stegemann, Kim (kstegemann) (committee member)

contributor: MacLennan, David (dmaclennan) (committee member)

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

format:
electronic
iv, 32 pages

subject:
Child development -- Education
Infant -- Development

abstract:
The emerging ability to regulate and adapt emotions, behaviours and attention according to situational demands is paramount in children’s successful transition into primary school. Literature devoted to child development states that developmental trends and experiences that occur in the first five years of life will set the stage for subsequent development. This suggests that for children to successfully meet the expectations of the primary school environment they must first have a strong foundation of self-regulation strategies.
This paper summarizes key principles that underlie the developmental pathways of self-regulation and ego-resiliency, focusing on the period from early infancy to the beginning of primary school. The forming of a caregiver-infant attachment relationship in the first year of life is discussed. This caregiver-infant attachment is key as the child shifts from guided regulation into the early stages of self-regulation in the toddler years. Next, this paper focuses on the child`s ability to independently self-regulate, and the development of confidence and ego-resiliency in preschool. Finally, this paper looks at how previously developed ego-resilient self-regulation affects a child’s ability to successfully meet the novel expectations and responsibilities that accompany the transition into primary school.


title: The invariant subspace problem

contributor: Thompson Rivers University Department of Mathematics & Statistics (Degree granting institution)

format: electronic 75p electronic

subject:
Invariant subspaces
Functional analysis

abstract: The notion of an invariant subspace is fundamental to the subject of operator theory. Given an operator T on a Banach space X, a closed subspace M of X is said to be a non-trivial invariant subspace for T if T(M) " M and M #= {0},X. A famous unsolved problem, called the “invariant subspace problem,” asks whether every bounded linear operator on a Hilbert space (more generally, a Banach space) admits a non-trivial invariant subspace. In this thesis, we discuss the greatest achievements in solving this problem for special classes of linear operators. We include several positive results for linear operators related to compact operators and normal operators, and negative results for certain linear operators on Banach spaces. Our goal is to build up the theory from the basics, and to prove the main results in a way that is accessible to a student who is relatively new to the world of functional analysis.


title: NGO influence at UN negotiations: Institutional efficiency and socially beneficial outcomes?

contributor: Kading, Terry (tkading) (committee member)

subject:
Non-governmental organizations
International cooperation
United Nations

abstract: There has been a proliferation of non-governmental organization (NGO) participation in international environmental negotiations in recent years, which has come with a great deal of literature on their effectiveness in this role. However, there is no research that connects the effectiveness and influence of NGOs with literature on the role institutional structures play in affecting the possibility to achieve certain outcomes. Bringing together literature on global governance and institutional economics I attempt to draw some conclusions on NGO influence within the United Nations (UN) institutional framework. I gathered information from interviews and observations of the actions of We Canada, a national environmental advocacy NGO that aims to raise awareness about and effect change at the upcoming Earth Summit in Rio. I also observed other NGOs while attending the third intersessional conference for the Rio Earth Summit (Rio+20) in New York. I conclude that NGOs have the ability to influence negotiations within the current institutional framework through agenda setting, forging personal relationships with government officials, partnerships with other NGOs, and educating government delegations and fellow NGOs. Although the goals of these organizations reflective of socially beneficial outcomes, they often lack a focus on institutional reform to increase efficiency of international environmental negotiations.


title: Plants, fungi, and freeloaders: Examining endophytic species richness changes over the growing season of Arceuthobium americanum

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

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

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

subject:
Lodgepole pine dwarf mistletoe
Lodgepole pine -- Diseases and pests

abstract:
Arceuthobium americanum, or the lodgepole pine dwarf mistletoe, is a tree parasite in northern Canada. The plant has negatively impacted the lumber industry, causing significant financial losses, particularly in the west. Recently, endophytic fungi have been found in this plant, which have been discovered to function in protecting the plant from surface pathogens. The current study aimed to examine the endophytic fungi in more depth, looking for changes in species richness over the plant’s growing season and determining whether these richness changes differed between males and females. This information could yield a new management strategy, which would involve applying a surface pathogen spray at a time when the endophytic fungal diversity is lower and the plant is presumably more susceptible to pathogens.
Using pure culture techniques, endophytic fungi were isolated from surface sterilized A. americanum males and females weekly from the end of April to the beginning of September. Isolated fungi were characterized macroscopically to generate a database of morphologically unique forms that corresponded to individual species. Endophytic fungi that appeared consistently throughout the sampling period were sent to be sequenced by MACROGEN™ sequencing in Korea to determine their identities based on ITS rDNA sequences.
Throughout the study period, 47 distinct morphological strains of fungi were isolated. Endophytic fungal species abundance was found to increase throughout the growing season in both males and female A. americanum plants. There was no significant difference in the species richness between males and females, and the two groups shared 87.5% species similarity based on Sørensen’s coefficient of similarity. Sequenced endophytes found in this study came from a diverse array of genera, including Trichoderma, Serpula, Alternaria, and Tremella, which may function as mutualistic symbionts within the plant. Endophytic fungal species richness follows the trend shown by all other plants to date: it increases throughout the growing season in new aerial shoots. Future work should aim to further characterize endophytic communities using metagenomic techniques and comparing endophyte communities of A. americanum to those of the host tree to see if there is crossover between the two organisms.


title: Site selection for parturition by gravid female rattlesnakes (Crotalus oreganus) in Osoyoos, British Columbia

contributor: Watson, Sheri (swatson) (committee member)

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

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

format:
electronic
vi, 31, B pages

subject: Western rattlesnake -- Habitat -- British Columbia

abstract: Knowledge of habitat use and resource selection behaviours are critical to understanding the population ecology of any animal species. In some species, genders and age classes exhibit different preferences for foraging, reproduction, and shelter. The Western Rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus) is a good example of a species that shows variation in habitat use between genders, mainly due to different reproductive life histories. My research focussed on identifying and describing gestation sites referred to as rookery sites used by gravid female rattlesnakes for parturition. Radiotelemetry was used to monitor twelve gravid females from April to September 2017 in Osoyoos, British Columbia. I assessed vegetation cover and other habitat features at the rookery sites across three different spatial scales (1 m, 3 m, 10 m radius plots). To compare rookeries to random habitat plots, I used a matched case-control study design. Conditional logistic regressions revealed that at the 1 m scale, females selected sites with higher surface temperature, whereas at the 3 m scale, they selected for higher air temperature and the sufficient cover of rocks. At the largest scale, 10 m radius plot, average air temperature once again was selected for by gravid females. Overall, rookery sites had 80% rock cover and were found on south-facing slopes (on average 26% slope incline). Information on the location, habitat structure and use of rookeries provides important insight into understanding the ecology of Western Rattlesnakes and facilitating their conservation.

abstract: rattlesnakes

abstract: rookery

abstract: telemetry

abstract: site selection

abstract: habitat analysis

abstract: conditional logistic regression

abstract: Crotalus oreganus


title: Snail trails: Use of RFID technology to discover how far intertidal snails travel and where they live

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

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

format: electronic 37p electronic

subject:
Radio frequency identification systems
Snails -- Marking

abstract: Mark and recapture (MR) is a common technique used to study animal behaviour, however, conventional tagging methods involving direct observation have difficulties in locating small, cryptic animals in complex environments. Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology can solve this problem, to offer a promising advantage in the intertidal zone. This project represents the first use of RFID technology to discover which habitats snails use throughout the summer, how far throughout the intertidal zone they move per day, and how widely they disperse towards other populations. When mounted to snails, RFID technology, which uses small passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags, allows a researcher to detect individual snails even when they are hidden from view. The specific goals of this study were to determine: 1) the effectiveness of using RFID to study snail behaviour, 2) which microhabitats were used most often by the snails, 3) how far the snails travelled each day, and 4) how far the snails dispersed over the summer. This research was conducted on the intertidal snail, Nucella ostrina, near the Bamfield Marine Sciences Center, in British Columbia, Canada. In summer 2015, I attached one 12 mm PIT tag to each of 64 snails and located their position in the intertidal zone daily using an RFID reader. PIT tags had no detectable effect on snail movement or survival; thus, using RFID technology is an effective technique for tagging snails to study their behavior. Intertidal snails occupied a variety of hidden microhabitats throughout the study, which made 30% of them invisible to the human eye without the use of RFID technology. In addition, intertidal snails moved very little each day (13.82 ± 7.01 cm) and moved non-directionally, which led to limited displacement over the study period where majority of snails (78%) only dispersed up to 1 m from their starting position. Consequently, snail populations may have limited gene flow between neighboring populations.


title: Elucidating the decomposition kinetics of xanthate compounds in mining waters by headspace gas chromatrography-mass spectrometry

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

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

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

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

format:
electronic
vi, 29 pages

subject:
Xanthates -- Biodegradation
Xanthates -- Minerals

abstract: Xanthates are a widely used class of floatation reagents used for the recovery of valuable sulphide minerals. Floatation utilizes large quantities of water that lead to rapid hydrolysis of xanthates in circuit leading to a reduction in mineral recovery and an overall decrease in mill efficiency. Currently the knowledge on xanthate degradation is sparse with only a few studies reporting kinetic parameters for xanthate degradation into carbon disulphide (CS2). A headspace GC-MS method was developed to directly measure the presence of CS2 in the gas phase. Kinetic parameters were then established for potassium amyl xanthate (PAX), sodium isobutyl xanthate (SIBX), potassium isopropyl xanthate (PIPX), and sodium ethyl xanthate (SEX) based on the generation of CS2. The decomposition of all xanthate studied followed first order kinetics and the rate constants were determined using a 7650A auto sampler and a PAL3 auto sampler. The rate constants were found to be 7.05 x 10-4, 4.07 x 10-4, 5.11 x 10-4, and 1.48 x 10-4 h-1 for PAX, SIBX, PIPX, and SEX respectively at 25 oC using the 7650A auto sampler. For the PAL3 auto sample the rate constants were found to be 3.71 x 10-6, 4.39 x 10-6, 1.86 x 10-6, and 4.03 x 10-6 h-1 for PAX, SIBX, PIPX, and SEX respectively at 30 oC. The rate constants were found to increase as the temperature was increased. These data were used to calculate the activation energies for each decomposition reaction. The activation energies were found to be 19.83, 10.80, 34.44, and 22.64 kJ/mole for PAX, SIBX, PIPX, and SEX respectively. These data show that the methods presented are viable options for further analytical studies on xanthate decomposition kinetics and for higher throughput applications in industrial settings.


title: The spatial and temporal distribution of avian stick nests across a managed forest

contributor: Karakatsoulis, John (jkarakatsoulis) (committee member)

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

format:
electronic
vi, 33 pages

subject:
Forest birds -- Nests
Forest birds -- Alberta

abstract:
Stick nests (as created by several forest dwelling birds) are valuable habitat features. Consequently, forest management practices in Western Canada often call for stick nests and the surrounding habitat to be conserved where possible.  I examined historical distributions of stick nests across a working-forest landscape in west-central Alberta, to determine if locations as amassed by forest workers (1999 -2017) appeared randomly-distributed across the landscape or were biased towards specific habitat metrics, and if so, did these metrics change over time? I worked with three sets of data compiled from 1999, 2003, and 20152017, respectively. Biologically relevant and important management habitat metrics were compiled using the most relevant GIS layers corresponding to the years of stick-nest reporting.  These metrics were calculated at five spatial scales: 25 m, 50 m, 100 m, 250 m, and 500 m. Identical data were collected from generated random (reference) sites paired with each stick nest site.
I used conditional logistic regression to isolate the best predictors of stick nest occurrence in each time period, at each spatial scale. Models were successfully fitted for four of five spatial scales only in the 1999 time period. Deciduous cover was found to be a strong explanatory variable for stick nest locations at the 25 m and 50 m scale. Increased area of land-use (primarily oil and gas developments) and a high component of deciduous cover were found significant at the 100 m scale. The model generated for the 500 m scale indicated an increased likelihood of stick nests in areas with increased area of land-use, probably a result of both nesting behaviour and observer effects. The results of this study did not support the notion that habitat metrics associated with stick nests have remained constant (or changed) between 1999 and 2017 in the forest management area. A consistent and more thorough stick-nest monitoring program is likely required to fully understand the factors (natural and anthropogenic) linked to the conservation of stick nests across a working-forest landscape. Moreover, investing in these monitoring programs may help improve sustainable management practices over time by enhancing understanding of the complex influences of landscape management on raptor nesting behaviour.


title: Viral warriors: Screening water samples for bacteriophages against multiple drug resistant bacteria

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

subject:
Phagocytes -- Research
Immunology

abstract:
Although mutation occurs randomly in nature and is passed randomly between bacterial species, the misuse and overuse of antibiotics in modern medicine has selected for antibiotic resistant organisms, resulting in an epidemic of antibiotic resistant infections. Used extensively in former Soviet Union countries with success, Western researchers have begun considering phage therapy for treatments, however it must be subjected to rigorous clinical trials before it can be approved by the FDA as a treatment method in North America (Gill et al. 2010; Abhilash et al. 2009).

In this study, phage screening was performed on eight MDR bacterial strains provided from LifeLabs and Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops, B.C.: E. coli 15-102, 15-124, and 14-318; Micrococcus luteus; Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) 1 and 2; Serratia marcescens; and Mycobacterium smegmatis. One non-resistant E. coli strain known to be killed by phages found in Kamloops sewage was used as a positive control. Seven water samples and one non-water sample were used in this experiment as a source of phages. Water samples were obtained from the Kamloops Sewage Treatment Plant, the Domtar pulp mill run-off, the Pacific Ocean, Bisaro Anima Cave, and alkaline ponds around Kamloops. The non-water sample was created from mixing dirt from Abbotsford, B.C. with sterile water. An additional enriched water sample was made through the incubation of broth culture, nutrient broth, and sewage water overnight at 37°C in an attempt to select for more strain-specific phages (Prescott et al. 2005). In addition, sterile water was used in the protocol as a negative control.

The successfulness of each phage screening trial was measured through the formation of plaques, which developed after plating the Multiple Drug Resistant (MDR) bacteria, molten agar, and phages for confluent growth on nutrient agar (Prescott et al. 2005). Of all the bacteria and environmental water samples, plaques only developed for the E. coli 14-318 strain using sewage water from the Kamloops Sewage Treatment Center. Using phage screening against these MDR bacteria allowed us to see that MDR pathogens present in our community are treatable with a potentially more beneficial and successful method to antibiotics.


title: Drivers of reproductive timing in mountain chickadees across an urban-rural gradient

contributor: Baldwin, Lyn (lbaldwin) (thesis advisor)

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

format:
electronic
vi, 25 pages

subject:
Mountain chickadee -- Sexual behavior
Mountain chickadee -- Habitat

abstract: To ensure the survival of their offspring, birds need to precisely time their reproduction: when offspring have the highest demand for food, food resources should be most abundant. In temperate environments, caterpillars are often a key food source for nestlings, so many insectivorous bird species time their reproduction to correspond to the peak abundance of caterpillars in their habitat. Mountain chickadees (Poecile gambini) are small songbirds that naturally inhabit coniferous forests, but are also found in urban areas. Reproductive timing of these birds may be altered by urbanization, as mountain chickadees in the city have been shown to breed earlier than those in natural habitat. This study aimed to determine if caterpillar abundance drives reproductive timing of mountain chickadees and if urbanization alters the timing of caterpillar abundance. Birds in both urban and rural habitats were monitored throughout the breeding season. Caterpillar abundance was estimated at each nest location by collecting samples of caterpillar excrement known as frass. We found that in both urban and rural habitat, frass abundance changed throughout the breeding season, but the date of maximum frass abundance occurred about one week earlier in urban habitat. However, in both habitats maximum frass abundance occurred when offspring were approximately 11 days old. Our results suggest that mountain chickadees time their reproduction to correspond to caterpillar abundance, and birds in urban environments may be reproducing earlier to correspond with earlier peak caterpillar abundance in the city.


title: Impacts of fencing and development of western rattlesnake (crotalus oreganus) spring movements in British Columbia

contributor: Rakobowchuck, Mark (mrakobowchuck) (committee member)

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

subject: Western rattlesnake -- Canada -- British Columbia

subject: Radio telemetry

subject: Western rattlesnake -- Migration

subject: Wildlife conservation -- Canada -- British Columbia

abstract: Due to increasing anthropogenic pressures, the process of natural animal migration is undergoing alterations across many different taxa. To investigate these impacts is difficult on large-scale migrations, yet small-scale migrants will provide useful and tractable systems to understand the effects of disturbance and landscape barriers on natural movement patterns and migrations. The Western Rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus) in British Columbia is a small, migratory predator that undertakes annual spring movements from communal hibernaculum to summer hunting grounds. In this thesis, I examined changes to these migration movements in male rattlesnakes that encountered both snake exclusion fencing barriers and disturbed habitats from 2011-2016. My thesis field work included 2015 and 2016, and data from 20112014 was drawn from a long-term project database. Individuals moving through disturbed habitats or intercepted by snake exclusion fencing demonstrated shorter migration distances and reduce spring path sinuosity (more crooked routes) compared to individuals migrating in undisturbed habitats. Specifically, individuals encountering a snake fence during spring movements had shorter total spring migration path lengths and smaller home ranges. Regardless, migration distance was strongly associated with the distance individuals travelled until they first encountered human disturbance. Despite this difference, duration of the migration did not differ between rattlesnakes that encountered a snake exclusion fence, experienced other forms of disturbance, or migrated through undisturbed habitats. Overall, my work reveals the importance of looking closely at seasonal movement patterns, including migration, of smaller-scale migrants in response to abrupt and long-term landscape changes and barriers. Small-scale migrants can be used as an important indicator of landscape and community connectivity and can be used as an important reference for managing ecosystem function and health on a changing, anthropocentric landscape.

abstract: Species-at-Risk

abstract: British Columbia

abstract: Conservation

abstract: Crotalus oreganus

abstract: Migration

abstract: Radio-telemetry


title: Use of unmanned aerial vehicles to study cattle heat stress

contributor: Reudink, Matt (mreudink) (committee member)

contributor: Rakobowchuk, Mark (mrakobowchuk) (committee member)

format:
electronic
viii, 44 pages

subject:
Cattle -- Canada
Heat -- Physiological effect

abstract:
Heat stress in cattle is a growing problem for the North American cattle industry. Heat stress negatively affects production as it reduces foraging, growth, metabolic efficiency, and may increase mortality rates. Heat stress also negatively affects animal welfare and consumers are increasingly wanting their products sourced from producers that foster good animal welfare. Climate change models predict that average summer temperatures and the frequency and magnitude of heat waves will increase.
Given the worsening problem of heat stress, the industry needs to develop and adopt best practices to mitigate losses in production. In principle, increasing heat tolerance may be an effective strategy but measuring heat tolerance is challenging, especially in large-scale studies. Monitoring physiological indicators of heat stress requires invasive devices that are reliable but may be cost prohibitive and logistically challenging. Monitoring behavioral indicators may be practical but still are time- and labor-intensive for large-scale studies. Consumer-grade unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have the potential to be practical and effective tools in studying heat stress behavior.
In the second chapter of my thesis, I used thermal-based imagery acquired by a UAV to compare surface temperature between color variants of Black Angus x Canadian Speckle Park cattle. Light-coated animals exhibited lower surface temperatures than dark-coated animals during peak sunlight. This may suggest that light-coated variants are less susceptible to heat stress; however, further research is needed to determine this.
In the third chapter of my thesis, I developed a practical and effective method to measure respiration rate using UAVs and Observer XT software. I recorded video at 5-10 meters above steers in feedlot pens and cows on pasture throughout a summer heat wave. Observer XT software was used to analyze behavior from UAV-based video. Respiration rates were determined by quantifying flank movements observable on video. Consistent with similar studies, respiration rate was the highest in black cattle, followed by red cattle, then white cattle in the feedlot. Coat color did not affect respiration rate in cows on pasture; however, temperatures on pasture were lower than in feedlots and the effect of coat color may not manifest until a certain temperature threshold of heat load index (HLI).
In conclusion, consumer-grade UAVs seem to be an effective tool for measuring heat stress behavior of cattle in large scale operations. Future research could further improve the efficacy of UAVs with the addition of extra sensors and with the use of automation through machine learning methods. UAV-borne thermal imagers provide limited information and warrant further improvement. It is likely that, in the feedlot, dark-coated cattle are less productive than light-coated cattle during high heat loads but further research is needed to make a direct comparison of productivity. The inclusion of Canadian Speckle Park animals in primarily Black Angus commercial breeding programs has the potential to introduce thermotolerant traits into the popular Angus breed. However, further research is needed to determine if coat color has an effect on heat stress and productivity.


title: An investigation of the impacts of supplementing cattle finishing rations with winery by-products on feed intake, meat characteristics, fecal microbiology and pre-harvest pathogen reductions

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

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

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

format: electronic 95p electronic

subject: Cattle -- Feeding and feeds -- British Columbia

subject: Wine industry -- Canada -- British Columbia

abstract: The production of novel beef products is crucial to ensuring the sustainability of British Columbia’s beef industry as it increases product differentiation in the beef marketplace. This research has evaluated the impacts of supplementing cattle finishing rations with winery by-products (WB), mainly wine lees, at a feedlot in the South Okanagan region of British Columbia. To accomplish this, 69 Angus cross feedlot steers (live weight; 51.3 ± 27.9 kg) were randomly allocated to one of two pens, two per treatment, and fed finishing rations supplemented with either 6-7 % WB (WB; n = 18, 17) or water (control (C); n = 17, 17) for 143 d. Over the course of the study the impacts of WBsupplemented feed rations on the weight and flight speeds of cattle were evaluated, as well as the impacts of this feed on the frequency of fecal samples harbouring antimicrobial resistant Escherichia coli (EC) and the diversity of fecal bacterial communities. Cattle fed WB-supplemented feeds were found to require less feed than C fed steers to reach the same slaughter weight, while producing meats with no changes to the colour or composition than the control, save for the colour of ground steak meat, which was found to be darker in meats from WBfed animals. WB-supplemented feeds did not alter cattle temperament, however cattle became habituated to handling over the feeding period. WB-fed cattle had elevated EC loads compared to C-fed animals, however no changes to the proportions of antimicrobial resistant EC were observed between treatments. Similarly, diet was not found to alter the bacterial communities of cattle feces, however these communities were found to change with time on feed. In conclusion, supplementing cattle feeds with WB can provide economic incentives to producers through reduced feed demands, without altering the loads of fecal pathogens or temperament of cattle.

abstract: cattle

abstract: wine

abstract: feed

abstract: gains

abstract: antimicrobial resistance

abstract: Escherichia coli


title: Assessing the impacts of heli-skiing on the behaviour and spatial distribution of Mountain Cariboo (Rangifer tarandus caribou)

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

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

contributor: Dickinson, Thomas E. (tdickinson) (thesis advisor)

format: electronic 86p electronic

subject:
Woodland caribou -- British Columbia
Backcountry skiing -- British Columbia
Recreation areas -- British Columbia

abstract: Mountain caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) are listed as endangered in Canada, with isolated subherds only remaining in British Columbia and parts of northern Idaho. A loss of old-growth forest habitat has caused a decline in their range, making them more likely to be disturbed by backcountry recreational activities such as heli-skiing. This study investigated whether an interaction between heli-skiing and Mountain Caribou could be detected. The detectability of caribou from helicopters indicated that caribou are often not detected when within close proximity to active skiing. Data on the behavioural responses of caribou that were recorded by Mike Wiegele heli-skiing personnel between 1996 and 2010 were analysed. The relationship between the type of responses and the frequency of ski run usage was examined. Responses were not higher in areas subject to more frequent skiing, but overt behavioural responses to heliskiing were documented. Three GIS analyses were performed on GPS data from 25 caribou collared between 1996 and 2007 to determine any spatial effects of skiing activity on how animals use their range. The first test examined habitat use near ski runs. Actual numbers of GPS locations within suitable habitat near ski runs were more than expected. The second test determined the distance established by caribou between themselves and ski runs with different intensities of use. More than an expected number of locations were found close to frequently skied runs; while fewer than expected locations were found close to runs not skied. The third test compared caribou’s rate of movement within zones skied frequently and less often. There was no significant difference in the degree of movement in areas skied heavily or not. Results of these analyses suggest that caribou in the area were not directly displaced by heli-skiing activities during the years studied, but avoidance at finer scales than I measured is possible. It appears as if ‘Best Management Practices’ that enforce closing areas to skiing upon detection of caribou may be helpful in reducing conflicts with caribou; however, mountain caribou in this study area have likely habituated to more than 40 years of skiing. Continued avoidance management, more specific research on short-term reactions to heliskiing and with herds in other areas are suggested to ensure a coexistence of caribou and heli-skiing.

abstract: Rangifer tarandus caribou

abstract: heli-skiing

abstract: backcountry recreation

abstract: disturbance

abstract: habitat specialist

abstract: GIS


title: Mapping invasive plants using RPAS and remote sensing

contributor: Hill, David (David Hill (dhill)) (thesis advisor)

format:
electronic
78 pages

subject: Invasive plants -- Biological control

abstract: The ability to accurately detect invasive plant species is integral in their management, treatment, and removal. This study focused on developing and evaluating RPAS-based methods for detecting invasive plant species using image analysis and machine learning and was conducted in two stages. First, supervised classification to identify the invasive yellow flag iris (Iris pseudacorus) was performed in a wetland environment using high-resolution raw imagery captured with an uncalibrated visible-light camera. Colour-thresholding, template matching, and de-speckling prior to training a random forest classifier are explored in terms of their benefits towards improving the resulting classification of YFI plants within each image. The impacts of feature selection prior to training are also explored. Results from this work demonstrate the importance of performing image processing and it was found that the application of colour thresholding and de-speckling prior to classification by a random forest classifier trained to identify patches of YFI using spectral and textural features provided the best results. Second, orthomosaicks generated from multispectral imagery were used to detect and predict the relative abundance of spotted knapweed (Centaurea maculosa) in a heterogeneous grassland ecosystem. Relative abundance was categorized in qualitative classes and validated through field-based plant species inventories. The method developed for this work, termed metapixel-based image analysis, segments orthomosaicks into a grid of metapixels for which grey-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM)-based statistics can be computed as descriptive features. Using RPAS-acquired multispectral imagery and plant species inventories performed on 1m2 quadrats, a random forest classifier was trained to predict the qualitative degree of spotted knapweed ground-cover within each metapixel. Analysis of the performance of metapixel-based image analysis in this study suggests that feature optimization and the use of GLCM-based texture features are of critical importance for achieving an accurate classification. Additional work to further test the generalizability of the detection methods developed is recommended prior to deployment across multiple sites.

abstract: remote sensing

abstract: remotely piloted aircraft systems

abstract: RPAS

abstract: invasive plant species

abstract: machine learning


title: Indicators of individual and population health in the Vancouver island Marmot (Marmota Vancouverensis)

contributor: Larsen, Karl (Karl Larsen (klarsen)) (thesis advisor)

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

format:
electronic
xiii, 139 pages
electronic

subject:
Vancouver Island marmot
Endangered species

abstract:
The Vancouver Island Marmot (Marmota vancouverensis) is an endangered rodent endemic to the mountains of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Following population declines in the 1980s and 1990s, an intensive captive breeding and reintroduction program was initiated involving three Canadian zoos and a purpose-built, subalpine facility on Vancouver Island.
From 1997 to 2017, 660 marmots were associated with the captive program, including 63 wild-born individuals captured for breeding and 597 marmots born and weaned in captivity. Reintroductions began in 2003 and by 2017 a total of 501 marmots had been released. Although this significantly increased the wild population from its low point in 2003, conservation of the Vancouver Island Marmot (VIM) continues to involve intensive ex situ management, reintroductions, and translocations.
Health and disease surveillence is fundamental to the success of conservation programs like the marmot recovery project. This thesis builds upon our understanding of VIM health by describing and evaluating select health parameters, to determine baseline characteristics for VIM under its different treatments (wild, captive and captive-release) and to identify potential risk factors that may influence the health of the marmot’s population and its capacity to achieve recovery objectives. The analysis involved data that was collected between 1992 and 2016, and included 1,106 VIM blood profiles, 3,174 physical examinations, 140 post mortem examinations and 533 field mortality records.
VIM hematology and serum biochemistry reference ranges were calculated as a baseline metric and were qualitatively comparable to published values for other
rodent species. Leukogram and protein values were found to have potential utility as a quantitative measure for comparing VIM management groups.
There were significant differences in the clinical and pathological data collected from captive and free-ranging (captive-release and wild) marmots. Captives could be monitored with greater intensity and to an older age, due to increased longevity. A host of clinical and pathological disorders were described in captive marmots, including age-related, management-related, and congenital problems. There was a paucity of health conditions identified in free-ranging VIM and this could be due to a fundamental lack of disease, or limited opportunities to conduct post mortem examinations or evaluate compromised individuals in the field.
The analysis did not identify any specific infectious agents that represented a generalized population threat to VIM. Cardiomyopathy and neoplasia, which occurred in older individuals, were the most consequential health complications for captive marmots. Implantation of abdominal radio-transmitters was not found to impact marmot health and was important for identifying mortalities in the field. The first wild hibernation represented a time of significant mortality for VIM released from captivity. However, reintroduced marmots that survived their first year in the wild were comparable to their wild-born counterparts with respect to hibernation success and clinical presentation. Predators continued to represent a major cause of mortality for free-ranging marmots. In the absence of other identified health threats, predation and reduced hibernation success of captive-release marmots appear to be significant factors limiting the health and potential recovery of the in situ population.

abstract: marmot

abstract: endangered

abstract: recovery

abstract: health

abstract: disease

abstract: surveillance


title: Mound microsites: Can they influence plant survival and growth in mine reclamation

contributor: Gardner, Wendy (wgardner) (thesis advisor)

contributor: Baldwin, Lyn (lybaldwin) (committee member)

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

format: electronic 104p electronic

subject: Abandoned mined lands reclamation -- British Columbia

subject: Endemic plants -- Canada -- British Columbia

abstract: This study examined arctic lupine (Lupinus arctica) and Mackenzie willow (Salix prolixa) seedling as well as growing medium responses to the effects of microtopography created by mounding the surface of a waste rock storage facility of a former metal mine in northern British Columbia. In the first two growing seasons of the study, mounding had a significant effect on near surface moisture (p<0.001), with moisture in the bottom swales measured to be significantly wetter than the other microtopographical positions, due to the accumulation of water. There were no measured effects on near-surface overburden temperature. The microtopographical treatments significantly affected the concentration of some nutrients, resulting in higher levels in the bottom swales likely due to nutrient leaching and displacement from locations on the mound. Overall plant survival was relatively high, with 5-year survival rates of 81% and 97% respectively for lupine and willow. Both willow and lupine seedlings exhibited highest mortality in bottom swales. Factors that may have contributed to higher mortality rates in the bottom swales include elevated moisture and concentrations of some metals and nutrients as well as reduced root lengths. Lupine cover, biomass and Rhizobium nodule formation were also significantly lower on plants occurring in the bottom swales. Similarly, after the first year of growth, willows planted in the bottom swales experienced the lowest cover and shortest root length in comparison to willows planted on the other mound locations. However, after the second year of growth, the highest cover was measured in willow plants occurring in the bottom swales. In this study, the microtopography formed by mounding the waste rock storage facility of a former metal mine facilitated significant differences in physical, chemical, and biological microsite conditions as well as plant survival and growth, at least in the first few years after planting. The created microtopography of mounding may be an efficient tool in influencing overburden characteristics and increasing the diversity of colonizing plant species on a mine reclamation site by providing a variety of sites favorable for seedling development.

abstract: mine reclamation

abstract: mounding

abstract: microsites

abstract: microtopography

abstract: native plants


title: A comparison of random forests and linear stepwise regressions to model and map soil carbon in South-Central British Columbia grasslands using normalized difference vegetation index based models

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

format: electronic 97p electronic

subject: Carbon sequestration -- British Columbia

subject: Climate change -- British Columbia

abstract: Industrialization, production and consumption of fossil fuels, and land use changes have resulted in increased concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere causing changes in ecosystem structure and properties. Soil carbon (SC) sequestration, the process of storing CO2 in the soil through crop residues and other organic solids, has been an area under much investigation as it relates to reducing atmospheric carbon (C) and mitigating climate change. Since grasslands predominately sequester C below ground through root growth and consequent soil-building processes, they have a high potential for long term C storage and therefore are of major importance for maintaining Earth’s carbon cycle. Despite advances in SC determination in recent years, it remains a challenge to model and map SC across large regions. There are several factors, both anthropogenic and environmental, that influence C sequestration. Given this complex system, I have used Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data in conjunction with accurate field measurements to examine the mechanisms that affect SC storage in order to produce predictive SC maps for the southern interior grasslands of British Columbia (BC). Soil carbon prediction was based on the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), which has demonstrated high correlation with SC distribution in past studies. The relationship of SC and NDVI was evaluated on two scales using: i) the MOD 13Q1 (250 m/16 day resolution) NDVI data product from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectro-radiometer (MODIS) aboard the United States Terra satellite (NDVIMODIS), and ii) a handheld Multispectral Radiometer (MSR16R, Cropscan Inc., 1 m resolution) device (NDVIMSR). Other factors included in the model are: i) grazing, ii) climate data, iii) vegetation community zones, iv) soil classification and drainage, and v) topography. A traditional linear stepwise regression (SR) modelling approach was compared with random forest (RF) modelling, a recursive partitioning technique that employs randomized bagging and bootstrapping of samples. There was a strong relationship between NDVI derived from the MSR with SC in fenced systems (R2=0.41), SOC in fenced systems (R2=0.47), and SOC in grazed systems (R2=0.34). When NDVI data derived from the MSR was used as model input, the percentage of explained variance was greater than for models which used NDVI derived from MODIS data (R2 = 0.68 for SC in 2014 for fenced systems, modelled with SR based on NDVI data derived from MODIS ; R2=0.77 for SC in 2014 for fenced systems, modelled with SR based on NDVI data derived from MSR). These results show the potential of increased model accuracy with higher resolution GIS data and the effectiveness of NDVI based models to predict SC and SOC. Significantly higher SC and SOC was recorded in 2014 as compared to 2013 (p=0.001 for SC and p=0.031 for SOC), demonstrating the potential for C sequestration in BC grasslands as a climate change mitigation tactic. Based on comparisons of R2 and AIC values, SR produces models that explain more variance and are of better quality (R2=0.49-0.77 and AIC = 0.30-0.13 for SR models in 2014; R2=0.36-057 and AIC = 0.36-0.18). This project creates the groundwork for effective monitoring techniques of SC and SOC levels using GIS data in order to develop a carbon offset program for the ranching industry and can be used to help direct land management efforts to increase C sequestration in BC.

abstract: carbon sequestration

abstract: climate change

abstract: soil carbon

abstract: random forest

abstract: stepwise regression

abstract: Normalized Difference Vegetation Index

abstract: predictive mapping


title: The ecology of Western Painted Turtles (Chrysemys Picta Belli) in a Northern Canadian Reservoir

contributor: Govindarajulu, Purnima (committee member)

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

format: electronic 102p electronic

subject: Western painted turtle -- Habitat -- British Columbia

subject: Western painted turtle -- Conservation -- British Columbia

subject: Water-power -- British Columbia

subject: Reservoirs -- British Columbia

abstract:
Impoundment of water by hydroelectric reservoirs and resulting fluctuations in water levels (drawdown zone) may have significant impacts on the surrounding
ecosystems. For herpetofauna that live in cold climates, such human-induced alterations may amplify the difficulties in coping with the environment. My study
explored the ecology of an extreme northern population (Revelstoke, British Columbia, Canada) of western painted turtles (WPT; Chrysemys picta bellii)
inhabiting a reservoir that constantly fluctuates due to hydroelectric operations. The potential challenges this environment poses include inundation of nesting sites, increased winter mortality due to water level changes, and changes in the availability of aquatic habitat. I used radio telemetry and mark-recapture to identify where turtles were nesting and overwintering, and to assess demographics and turtle behaviour in relation to the changing water levels. My data suggest that adults and juveniles of both sexes used and overwintered in the drawdown zone. Nest inundation as a result of reservoir operations did not appear to be a significant threat to the animals as all detected nests lay above the high-water mark. Similarly, no incidents of turtle mortality were directly attributable to reservoir operations. Changes in water levels did affect habitat availability: areas in which turtles were located during early spring were subsequently lost as water levels rose, while flooding in other areas created seasonal, suitable habitat for turtles that otherwise was not accessible. Modelling turtle response to water levels, water temperature, and season suggested that changes in water levels did not significantly impact behaviour as measured. Appropriate management for this species and other semi-aquatic species that reside within drawdown zones is complex, given the reliance on both terrestrial and aquatic habitat, the life cycles of the species, movement, changing water levels, and subzero winter temperatures. This research provides a baseline for understanding the ecology of turtles in dynamic northern environments.

abstract: Western painted turtle

abstract: Chrysemys picta bellii

abstract: northern

abstract: hydroelectric

abstract: fluctuating environment

abstract: species management