Evaluating mammalian diversity across a gradient of disturbance in Tsay Keh Dene Territory using eDNA

This project aims to identify the effects of human activities, particularly logging and mineral exploration, on mammals that live in the Tsay Keh Dene (TKD) Nation Territory. We plan to use a method called environmental
DNA (eDNA), which involves detecting genetic material from animals in the environment, to understand how much logging and at what distance logging activities influence the diversity of mammal species downstream in river
networks. The research will provide information about the different types of mammals in the TKD Nation area and will be useful for future land management and conservation planning. It will help the TKD Nation make decisions
about where and how much resource extraction should happen on their land. Moreover, this project will also help evaluate how effective eDNA can be as a tool to monitor the impact of disturbances on native fauna.

Faculty Supervisor:

Heather Bryan

Student:

Partner:

Chu Cho Environmental LLP;Tsay Keh Dene Nation

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Northern British Columbia

Program: