Building Climate Resilience Research Capacity in the Northwest Territories
GrantID: 2816
Grant Funding Amount Low: Open
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: Open
Summary
Grant Overview
Impact of Climate Change on Arctic Wildlife in the Northwest Territories
The Northwest Territories (NWT) are experiencing some of the most acute effects of climate change in Canada. With temperatures rising at nearly double the global average, species distribution and behavior are drastically altered, creating significant barriers to conservation efforts. A recent study indicates that Arctic species are shifting their migratory patterns, which puts additional stress on ecosystems that are not only delicate but also critical to Indigenous cultures and local economies.
Wildlife managers, Indigenous hunters, and community members in the NWT face challenges in adapting to these rapid environmental changes. The region is home to diverse wildlife that is foundational to community subsistence and cultural practices. However, as climate change disrupts traditional patterns, these stakeholders are navigating uncertainty around wildlife availability and health, resulting in food security concerns and increased strain on local economies reliant on hunting and fishing.
The grant initiative is designed to provide funding for research that assesses the impact of climate change on diverse Arctic wildlife populations. By employing satellite imagery analysis alongside field studies, this funding aims to generate critical data on species distribution and behavioral changes. It supports partnerships with Indigenous communities, ensuring that their knowledge and experiences inform scientific inquiry and conservation strategies.
The outcomes anticipated from this initiative are essential to developing effective climate response strategies that are grounded in comprehensive data. By understanding how climate change is affecting wildlife, wildlife managers can develop adaptive management plans that help protect these vital species while also considering the needs of local communities. Furthermore, this project aims to enhance resilience in local populations by promoting informed decision-making based on scientific findings, ensuring that climate adaptation strategies are effective and culturally relevant.
Through this initiative, the NWT is taking an important step toward marrying traditional ecological knowledge with modern scientific inquiry, establishing a cooperative approach to managing wildlife that recognizes the complexities of climate change and the vital input of Indigenous communities.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
