Modelling Ronald Lake Bison Population Carrying Capacity and Habitat Supply

Free-ranging and free from bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis, the Ronald Lake wood bison population in northern Alberta has ecological, cultural, and spiritual importance. The ongoing sustainability of the population requires stewardship and management that aligns with the goals of Indigenous governments, provincial and federal governments, and other interested parties. Partnering with The Firelight Group, alongside Mikisew Cree First Nation and Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, this project will estimate the Ronald Lake bison habitat supply and l carrying capacity using three different approaches: animal-units, habitat suitability index, and resource selection function. Additional habitat and harvest scenarios will then be modelled to help predict future change to the herd. This new information will support ongoing and future Ronald Lake bison management, stewardship, and governance decisions to ensure there are healthy and viable Ronald Lake bison for generations to come

Faculty Supervisor:

Scott Nielsen;Mark Edwards

Student:

Partner:

The Firelight Group

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Alberta

Program: