UNBC and Rio Tinto Collaborate for Climate Change Research

UNBC and Rio Tinto Enhance Research Collaboration

The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) has embarked on an exciting new chapter in its partnership with Rio Tinto. This collaboration is set to propel research focused on the pressing issues of climate change and its effects on water security and aquatic life within the Nechako Watershed.

Significant Funding for Essential Research

With a generous investment of $1.75 million from Rio Tinto, the next five years will see the establishment of two Research Chairs at UNBC. This funding not only aims to generate critical local knowledge, but also intends to influence water management and climate resilience strategies on a global scale.

Leadership in Climate Research

Dr. Stephen Déry has been appointed as the Rio Tinto Research Chair in Climate Change and Water Security. This role is a continuation of his previous Industrial Research Chair (IRC) position, which he has held since 2019. His upcoming research initiatives will focus on enhancing hydrometeorological monitoring techniques and developing innovative forecasting systems to predict water temperature variations in the Nechako River.

Collaborative Efforts

Déry commented on the valuable work initiated through the IRC, highlighting the importance of collaboration between various stakeholders. The research team's ongoing investigations will shed light on the impacts of climate change across the watershed, aiming to better prepare communities for future environmental challenges. These insights will be essential for ensuring sustainable water security for both local populations and ecosystems.

New Focus on Freshwater Fish Populations

The other notable appointment is Dr. Eduardo Martins as the Rio Tinto Research Chair in Climate Change and Freshwater Fish Ecology. His work will address significant knowledge gaps regarding the influence of water temperature fluctuations—due to natural phenomena and river regulation—on fish behavior and survival rates.

Addressing Ecological Concerns

Martins noted the diverse species that inhabit the Nechako Watershed, such as sockeye salmon and Nechako white sturgeon. Nonetheless, these species face threats posed by rising water temperatures and climate variability. Understanding these challenges is crucial for ensuring species sustainability and ecological balance.

Developing Preemptive Solutions

The partnership between Déry and Martins will create models that analyze the impact of temperature changes and extreme weather events on local fish populations, which are vital for regional ecosystems. Their findings are expected to provide invaluable insights for fisheries management and conservation policies tailored to protect both keystone and endangered species.

Support for Sustainable Management Practices

The conclusions drawn from their research endeavors will not only aid Rio Tinto in their operations but also inform the ecological flow management practices at sites such as the Skins Lake Spillway. Public statements made by Rio Tinto highlight the company's commitment to sustainable practices and their dedication to collaborating with local research initiatives.

Expanding the Scope of Research

Rio Tinto's Director of Energy and Watershed Partnerships, Andrew Czornohalan, emphasized the pivotal role the Nechako Watershed plays in their operations and local community lifeways. The escalation of these research efforts will provide critical scientific data necessary for resolving reservoir management and improving environmental conditions.

Ongoing Community Engagement

This renewed partnership signifies the commitment to continuous engagement with community stakeholders. The ongoing collaboration between UNBC's Research Chairs and local First Nations, as well as various community groups, is crucial to addressing the broader implications of climate change.

Transformative Collaboration

UNBC's Vice-President of Research and Innovation, Dr. Paula Wood-Adams, mentioned the necessity of teamwork in tackling global challenges such as climate change. This approach involves diverse teams merging the insights of community members, private enterprises, and academic researchers.

UNBC’s Contributions

In addition to Rio Tinto's funding, UNBC will contribute cash and in-kind resources amounting to approximately $1.3 million throughout the five-year program. This support will foster a collaborative environment for a team of 11 researchers, including master's students, PhD candidates, and post-doctoral fellows.

About the Research Initiatives

The overarching goal of the Rio Tinto Research Chair in Climate Change and Water Security is to deepen the understanding of hydrometeorological extremes and determine their long-term impacts on local water security. Three key areas of focus include: hydrometeorological extremes like droughts, the effects of microclimates and climate change on agriculture, and the variability of water temperatures.

Fish Ecology Research Themes

The other Research Chair will primarily concentrate on how various environmental factors—including human-induced changes—affect fish populations. Key areas of exploration will involve studying fish thermal preferences and their capabilities for behavioral thermoregulation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main goals of the research partnership?

The partnership aims to investigate climate change impacts on water security and freshwater fish populations in the Nechako Watershed.

Who are the primary researchers involved?

Dr. Stephen Déry and Dr. Eduardo Martins are leading the research efforts as Rio Tinto Research Chairs.

How is the research funded?

Rio Tinto has committed $1.75 million, with additional support from UNBC contributing approximately $1.3 million in cash and in-kind services.

What specific species will the fish ecology research focus on?

This research will focus on various fish species, including salmon, trout, and Nechako white sturgeon.

Why is this research important?

The findings will help shape sustainable practices and inform fisheries management strategies critical for local ecosystems and communities.

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