2021 |
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![]() | Arkarath Soukhaphon Ian G. Baird, ; Hogan, Zeb S The Impacts of Hydropower Dams in the Mekong River Basin: A Review Journal Article Water, 13 (3), 2021. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: fisheries, hydropower, livelihoods, Mekong @article{Soukhaphon2021b, title = {The Impacts of Hydropower Dams in the Mekong River Basin: A Review}, author = {Arkarath Soukhaphon, Ian G. Baird, and Zeb S. Hogan}, url = {https://doi.org/10.3390/w13030265}, doi = {10.3390/w13030265}, year = {2021}, date = {2021-01-22}, journal = {Water}, volume = {13}, number = {3}, abstract = {The Mekong River, well known for its aquatic biodiversity, is important to the social, physical, and economic health of millions living in China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. This paper explores the social and environmental impacts of several Mekong basin hydropower dams and groupings of dams and the geographies of their impacts. Specifically, we examined the 3S (Sesan, Sekong Srepok) river system in northeastern Cambodia, the Central Highlands of Vietnam, and southern Laos; the Khone Falls area in southern Laos; the lower Mun River Basin in northeastern Thailand; and the upper Mekong River in Yunnan Province, China, northeastern Myanmar, northern Laos, and northern Thailand. Evidence shows that these dams and groupings of dams are affecting fish migrations, river hydrology, and sediment transfers. Such changes are negatively impacting riparian communities up to 1000 km away. Because many communities depend on the river and its resources for their food and livelihood, changes to the river have impacted, and will continue to negatively impact, food and economic security. While social and environmental impact assessments have been carried out for these projects, greater consideration of the scale and cumulative impacts of dams is necessary. }, keywords = {fisheries, hydropower, livelihoods, Mekong}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } The Mekong River, well known for its aquatic biodiversity, is important to the social, physical, and economic health of millions living in China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. This paper explores the social and environmental impacts of several Mekong basin hydropower dams and groupings of dams and the geographies of their impacts. Specifically, we examined the 3S (Sesan, Sekong Srepok) river system in northeastern Cambodia, the Central Highlands of Vietnam, and southern Laos; the Khone Falls area in southern Laos; the lower Mun River Basin in northeastern Thailand; and the upper Mekong River in Yunnan Province, China, northeastern Myanmar, northern Laos, and northern Thailand. Evidence shows that these dams and groupings of dams are affecting fish migrations, river hydrology, and sediment transfers. Such changes are negatively impacting riparian communities up to 1000 km away. Because many communities depend on the river and its resources for their food and livelihood, changes to the river have impacted, and will continue to negatively impact, food and economic security. While social and environmental impact assessments have been carried out for these projects, greater consideration of the scale and cumulative impacts of dams is necessary. |
2020 |
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![]() | Stenekes, Sydney; Parlee, Brenda; Seixas, Cristiana Sustainability, 12 (7923), 2020. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: community-based monitoring, freshwater ecosystems, indicators, social-ecological change, Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) @article{Stenekes2020, title = {Culturally Driven Monitoring: The Importance of Traditional Ecological Knowledge Indicators in Understanding Aquatic Ecosystem Change in the Northwest Territories’ Dehcho Region}, author = {Sydney Stenekes and Brenda Parlee and Cristiana Seixas}, url = {https://doi.org/10.3390/su12197923}, doi = {10.3390/su12197923}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-09-24}, journal = {Sustainability}, volume = {12}, number = {7923}, abstract = {There is growing concern about the sustainability of freshwater ecosystems in northern Canada that are under significant stress from climate change, resource development, and hydroelectric development, among others. Community-based monitoring (CBM) based on traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) has the potential to contribute to understanding impacts on the environment and community livelihoods. This paper shares insights about culturally driven monitoring, through collaborative research with Kátł’odeeche First Nation (KFN) in the Northwest Territories. This research was initiated in 2018 to improve understanding of the changes occurring in the Hay River and Buffalo River sub-basins, which extend primarily across the Alberta and Northwest Territories borders. Drawing on 15 semi-structured interviews conducted with KFN elders, fish harvesters, and youth, this paper illustrates the kinds of social–ecological indicators used by KFN to track changes in the health of aquatic systems as well as the fishing livelihoods of local people. Utilizing indicators, fishers observe declines in fish health, water quality, water quantity, and ice thickness in their lifetime. Community members perceive these changes to be a result of the cumulative effects of environmental stressors. The indicators as well as trends and patterns being observed and experienced can contribute to both social learning in the community as well as the governance of the larger Mackenzie River Basin.}, keywords = {community-based monitoring, freshwater ecosystems, indicators, social-ecological change, Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK)}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } There is growing concern about the sustainability of freshwater ecosystems in northern Canada that are under significant stress from climate change, resource development, and hydroelectric development, among others. Community-based monitoring (CBM) based on traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) has the potential to contribute to understanding impacts on the environment and community livelihoods. This paper shares insights about culturally driven monitoring, through collaborative research with Kátł’odeeche First Nation (KFN) in the Northwest Territories. This research was initiated in 2018 to improve understanding of the changes occurring in the Hay River and Buffalo River sub-basins, which extend primarily across the Alberta and Northwest Territories borders. Drawing on 15 semi-structured interviews conducted with KFN elders, fish harvesters, and youth, this paper illustrates the kinds of social–ecological indicators used by KFN to track changes in the health of aquatic systems as well as the fishing livelihoods of local people. Utilizing indicators, fishers observe declines in fish health, water quality, water quantity, and ice thickness in their lifetime. Community members perceive these changes to be a result of the cumulative effects of environmental stressors. The indicators as well as trends and patterns being observed and experienced can contribute to both social learning in the community as well as the governance of the larger Mackenzie River Basin. |
![]() | Martin, Chelsea; Parlee, Brenda; Neyelle, Morris Fishing Livelihoods in the Mackenzie River Basin: Stories of the Délįne Got’ine Journal Article Sustainability, 12 (7888), 2020. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Canadian subarctic, climate change, Délįne, fishing livelihoods, Got’ine, Great Bear Lake, Mackenzie River Basin, oral histories, Sahtú, subsistence fishing, Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) @article{Martin2020, title = {Fishing Livelihoods in the Mackenzie River Basin: Stories of the Délįne Got’ine}, author = {Chelsea Martin and Brenda Parlee and Morris Neyelle}, url = {https://doi.org/10.3390/su12197888}, doi = {10.3390/su12197888}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-09-24}, journal = {Sustainability}, volume = {12}, number = {7888}, abstract = {Climate change is among the greatest challenges facing Indigenous peoples. The impacts of climate change cannot be understood as only ecological or through models and projections. In this study, narratives from Indigenous peoples provide lived experience and insight of how social and ecological impacts are interconnected. Through collaborative research with the Sahtú Renewable Resources Board in the Northwest Territories Canada in the period 2018–2019, this paper shares the stories of the Délįne Got’ine peoples of Great Bear Lake (GBL), and how warming temperatures in the region impact fishing livelihoods. Specifically, we address the question, “What are the impacts of climate change on the fishing livelihoods of the Délįne Got’ine people?” Narratives from 21 semi-structured interviews reveal insights on six dimensions of fishing livelihoods. Analysis suggests the specific indicators of ecological change of concern to fishers and how those impact livelihoods over the short and long term. Given that the majority of research on climate change involving Indigenous peoples in Canada has focused on the high arctic and marine environments, this work is unique in its focus on the subarctic region and on freshwater ecosystems and livelihoods.}, keywords = {Canadian subarctic, climate change, Délįne, fishing livelihoods, Got’ine, Great Bear Lake, Mackenzie River Basin, oral histories, Sahtú, subsistence fishing, Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK)}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Climate change is among the greatest challenges facing Indigenous peoples. The impacts of climate change cannot be understood as only ecological or through models and projections. In this study, narratives from Indigenous peoples provide lived experience and insight of how social and ecological impacts are interconnected. Through collaborative research with the Sahtú Renewable Resources Board in the Northwest Territories Canada in the period 2018–2019, this paper shares the stories of the Délįne Got’ine peoples of Great Bear Lake (GBL), and how warming temperatures in the region impact fishing livelihoods. Specifically, we address the question, “What are the impacts of climate change on the fishing livelihoods of the Délįne Got’ine people?” Narratives from 21 semi-structured interviews reveal insights on six dimensions of fishing livelihoods. Analysis suggests the specific indicators of ecological change of concern to fishers and how those impact livelihoods over the short and long term. Given that the majority of research on climate change involving Indigenous peoples in Canada has focused on the high arctic and marine environments, this work is unique in its focus on the subarctic region and on freshwater ecosystems and livelihoods. |
![]() | Wray, Kristine; Soukhaphon, Akarath; Parlee, Brenda; D’Souza, Amabel; Freitas, Carolina; Heredia, Iria; Martin, Chelsea; Oloriz, Carrie; Proverbs, Tracey; Spicer, Neal Aligning Intentions with Community: Graduate Students Reflect on Collaborative Methodologies with Indigenous Research Partners Journal Article Sustainability, 12 (7534), 2020. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: best practices, collaborative research, community-based research, fishing livelihoods, graduate students, Indigenous communities, Indigenous graduate students @article{Wray2020, title = {Aligning Intentions with Community: Graduate Students Reflect on Collaborative Methodologies with Indigenous Research Partners}, author = {Kristine Wray and Akarath Soukhaphon and Brenda Parlee and Amabel D’Souza and Carolina Freitas and Iria Heredia and Chelsea Martin and Carrie Oloriz and Tracey Proverbs and Neal Spicer}, url = {https://doi.org/10.3390/su12187534}, doi = {10.3390/su12187534}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-09-12}, journal = {Sustainability}, volume = {12}, number = {7534}, abstract = {Collaborative and community-based research (CCBR) is well defined and discussed in the literature; however, there are few discussions about graduate students doing CCBR with Indigenous communities. This project report features insights from nine graduate students attending six universities in Canada, the United States, and Brazil. These students are a part of a multi-year research partnership grant involving fishing communities from three major watersheds, the Mackenzie River Basin, the Amazon River Basin, and the lower Mekong River Basin. Each student engaged in collaborative research around the themes of Indigenous fishing livelihoods and the role of local and traditional knowledge in river basin governance. This project report presents reflections of graduate students on developing relationships and enacting CCBR during the following three stages of research with Indigenous communities: research project design, research project implementation, and post-project engagement. Best practices have been developed from graduate student reflections on issues, challenges, and needs of graduate students doing CCBR. The findings suggest that a diversity of factors contribute to effective CCBR. This includes the needs and interests of the community partner, the quality of supervisor support, the skillset of the student, their disciplinary background, and their capacity to work in complex sociopolitical contexts. }, keywords = {best practices, collaborative research, community-based research, fishing livelihoods, graduate students, Indigenous communities, Indigenous graduate students}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Collaborative and community-based research (CCBR) is well defined and discussed in the literature; however, there are few discussions about graduate students doing CCBR with Indigenous communities. This project report features insights from nine graduate students attending six universities in Canada, the United States, and Brazil. These students are a part of a multi-year research partnership grant involving fishing communities from three major watersheds, the Mackenzie River Basin, the Amazon River Basin, and the lower Mekong River Basin. Each student engaged in collaborative research around the themes of Indigenous fishing livelihoods and the role of local and traditional knowledge in river basin governance. This project report presents reflections of graduate students on developing relationships and enacting CCBR during the following three stages of research with Indigenous communities: research project design, research project implementation, and post-project engagement. Best practices have been developed from graduate student reflections on issues, challenges, and needs of graduate students doing CCBR. The findings suggest that a diversity of factors contribute to effective CCBR. This includes the needs and interests of the community partner, the quality of supervisor support, the skillset of the student, their disciplinary background, and their capacity to work in complex sociopolitical contexts. |
![]() | D’Souza, Amabel; Parlee, Brenda Fishing Livelihoods and Diversifications in the Mekong River Basin in the Context of the Pak Mun Dam, Thailand Journal Article Sustainability, 12 (7438), 2020. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: diversification, fishing livelihoods, hydroelectric development, local ecological knowledge, Pak Mun dam; Makong River basin, Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) @article{D’Souza2020, title = {Fishing Livelihoods and Diversifications in the Mekong River Basin in the Context of the Pak Mun Dam, Thailand}, author = {Amabel D’Souza and Brenda Parlee}, url = {https://doi.org/10.3390/su12187438}, doi = {10.3390/su12187438}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-09-10}, journal = {Sustainability}, volume = {12}, number = {7438}, abstract = {Fishing livelihoods are under stress in many regions of the world, including the lower Mekong river basin. Building on research on the socio-economic impacts of hydroelectric development, this paper explores the spatial dimensions of livelihood diversifications. Research in 2016 and 2017, involving 26 semi-structured interviews in nine upstream, downstream, tributary and relocated villages in the vicinity of the Pak Mun hydroelectric dam, provides insight into how villagers have coped and adapted fishing livelihoods over time. Results are consistent with other research that has detailed the adverse effects of hydroelectric development on fishing livelihoods. Interviewees in the nine communities in the Isan region of Thailand experienced declines in the abundance and diversity of fish valued as food, and engaged in other household economic activities to support their families, including rice farming, marketing of fishing assets and other innovations. Stories of youth leaving communities (rural-urban migration) in search of employment and education were also shared. Although exploratory, our work confronts theories that fishing is a livelihood practice of “last resort”. Narratives suggest that both fishing and diversification to other activities have been both necessary and a choice among villagers with the ultimate aim of offsetting the adverse impacts and associated insecurity created by the dam development.}, keywords = {diversification, fishing livelihoods, hydroelectric development, local ecological knowledge, Pak Mun dam; Makong River basin, Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK)}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Fishing livelihoods are under stress in many regions of the world, including the lower Mekong river basin. Building on research on the socio-economic impacts of hydroelectric development, this paper explores the spatial dimensions of livelihood diversifications. Research in 2016 and 2017, involving 26 semi-structured interviews in nine upstream, downstream, tributary and relocated villages in the vicinity of the Pak Mun hydroelectric dam, provides insight into how villagers have coped and adapted fishing livelihoods over time. Results are consistent with other research that has detailed the adverse effects of hydroelectric development on fishing livelihoods. Interviewees in the nine communities in the Isan region of Thailand experienced declines in the abundance and diversity of fish valued as food, and engaged in other household economic activities to support their families, including rice farming, marketing of fishing assets and other innovations. Stories of youth leaving communities (rural-urban migration) in search of employment and education were also shared. Although exploratory, our work confronts theories that fishing is a livelihood practice of “last resort”. Narratives suggest that both fishing and diversification to other activities have been both necessary and a choice among villagers with the ultimate aim of offsetting the adverse impacts and associated insecurity created by the dam development. |
![]() | Oloriz, Carrie; Parlee, Brenda Towards Biocultural Conservation: Local and Indigenous Knowledge, Cultural Values and Governance of the White Sturgeon (Canada) Journal Article Sustainability, 12 (7320), 2020. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Conservation, cultural values, species at risk, Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), White Sturgeon @article{Oloriz2020, title = {Towards Biocultural Conservation: Local and Indigenous Knowledge, Cultural Values and Governance of the White Sturgeon (Canada)}, author = {Carrie Oloriz and Brenda Parlee}, url = {https://doi.org/10.3390/su12187320}, doi = {10.3390/su12187320}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-09-07}, journal = {Sustainability}, volume = {12}, number = {7320}, abstract = {This paper examines the extent to which Indigenous knowledge and values have informed conservation of the Lower Fraser River population of white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) in Canada. A review of grey literature and semi-structured interviews carried out with indigenous Stó:lō fishers and fisheries managers in the Lower Fraser Basin in 2016–2018 evidences the depth of knowledge held by Stó:lō fishers about this species and its importance to local communities. A summary of Stó:lō oral histories about the sturgeon and observations and experiences of settlement and development in the Fraser region, provides context for understanding why and how the white sturgeon came to be listed as a species at risk. However, the impacts were not only ecological; Stó:lō people were also significantly impacted by European settlement and development of the Fraser Basin over the last one hundred years. The assessment of the white sturgeon, under the Canadian Species at Risk Act in 2012 was a missed opportunity to decolonize current management approaches. The paper concludes by suggesting that a biocultural diversity conservation approach, that reflects both ecological and socio-cultural values, and is informed by scientific and Indigenous knowledge systems, is a more sustainable approach to the management of the white sturgeon and other species at risk.}, keywords = {Conservation, cultural values, species at risk, Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), White Sturgeon}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } This paper examines the extent to which Indigenous knowledge and values have informed conservation of the Lower Fraser River population of white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) in Canada. A review of grey literature and semi-structured interviews carried out with indigenous Stó:lō fishers and fisheries managers in the Lower Fraser Basin in 2016–2018 evidences the depth of knowledge held by Stó:lō fishers about this species and its importance to local communities. A summary of Stó:lō oral histories about the sturgeon and observations and experiences of settlement and development in the Fraser region, provides context for understanding why and how the white sturgeon came to be listed as a species at risk. However, the impacts were not only ecological; Stó:lō people were also significantly impacted by European settlement and development of the Fraser Basin over the last one hundred years. The assessment of the white sturgeon, under the Canadian Species at Risk Act in 2012 was a missed opportunity to decolonize current management approaches. The paper concludes by suggesting that a biocultural diversity conservation approach, that reflects both ecological and socio-cultural values, and is informed by scientific and Indigenous knowledge systems, is a more sustainable approach to the management of the white sturgeon and other species at risk. |
![]() | Spicer, Neal; Parlee, Brenda; Chisaakay, Molly; Lamalice, Doug Drinking Water Consumption Patterns: An Exploration of Risk Perception and Governance in Two First Nations Communities Journal Article Sustainability, 12 (6851), 2020. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: bottled water, drinking water, Indigenous, water security @article{Spicer2020, title = {Drinking Water Consumption Patterns: An Exploration of Risk Perception and Governance in Two First Nations Communities}, author = {Neal Spicer and Brenda Parlee and Molly Chisaakay and Doug Lamalice}, url = {https://doi.org/10.3390/su12176851}, doi = {10.3390/su12176851}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-08-24}, journal = {Sustainability}, volume = {12}, number = {6851}, abstract = {Many Indigenous communities across Canada suffer from the lack of access to clean drinking water; ensuring individuals and communities have safe water to drink either from their home or from their local environment requires the consideration of multiple factors including individual risk perception. In collaboration with local leaders, semi-structured interviews (n = 99) were conducted over a two-year period in the Dene Tha’ First Nation and Kátł’odeeche First Nation to unpack the issue of risk perception and its meaning to local community members. These local metrics of risk perception including smell, taste, safety, health fears and level of concern were then used to explore patterns in other data on drinking water consumption patterns and bottled water use. The results are consistent with previous research related to water insecurity and indicate that both communities consume more bottled water than the average Canadian. Results also varied by jurisdiction; those in Alberta indicated much higher levels of concern and a greater degree of bottled water consumption.}, keywords = {bottled water, drinking water, Indigenous, water security}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Many Indigenous communities across Canada suffer from the lack of access to clean drinking water; ensuring individuals and communities have safe water to drink either from their home or from their local environment requires the consideration of multiple factors including individual risk perception. In collaboration with local leaders, semi-structured interviews (n = 99) were conducted over a two-year period in the Dene Tha’ First Nation and Kátł’odeeche First Nation to unpack the issue of risk perception and its meaning to local community members. These local metrics of risk perception including smell, taste, safety, health fears and level of concern were then used to explore patterns in other data on drinking water consumption patterns and bottled water use. The results are consistent with previous research related to water insecurity and indicate that both communities consume more bottled water than the average Canadian. Results also varied by jurisdiction; those in Alberta indicated much higher levels of concern and a greater degree of bottled water consumption. |
![]() | MacKay, Makenzie; Parlee, Brenda; Karsgaard, Carrie Youth Engagement in Climate Change Action: Case Study on Indigenous Youth at COP24 Journal Article Sustainability, 12 (6299), 2020. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: activism, climate change, Indigenous, leadership, learning, networks, positive development, webs of support, youth @article{MacKay2020, title = {Youth Engagement in Climate Change Action: Case Study on Indigenous Youth at COP24}, author = {Makenzie MacKay and Brenda Parlee and Carrie Karsgaard }, url = {https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/12/16/6299}, doi = {10.3390/su12166299}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-08-05}, journal = {Sustainability}, volume = {12}, number = {6299}, abstract = {While there are many studies about the environmental impacts of climate change in the Canadian north, the role of Indigenous youth in climate governance has been a lesser focus of inquiry. A popularized assumption in some literature is that youth have little to contribute to discussions on climate change and other aspects of land and resource management; such downplay of youth expertise and engagement may be contributing to climate anxiety (e.g., feelings of hopelessness), particularly in remote communities. Creating opportunities for youth to have a voice in global forums such as the United Nations Conference of Parties (COP24) on Climate Change may offset such anxiety. Building on previous research related to climate action, and the well-being of Indigenous youth, this paper shares the outcomes of research with Indigenous youth (along with family and teachers) from the Mackenzie River Basin who attended COP24 to determine the value of their experience. Key questions guiding these interviews included: How did youth impact others? and How did youth benefit from the experience? Key insights related to the value of a global experience; multiple youth presentations at COP24 were heard by hundreds of people who sought to learn more from youth about their experience of climate change. Additional insights were gathered about the importance of family and community (i.e., webs of support); social networks were seen as key to the success of youth who participated in the event and contributed to youth learning and leadership development.}, keywords = {activism, climate change, Indigenous, leadership, learning, networks, positive development, webs of support, youth}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } While there are many studies about the environmental impacts of climate change in the Canadian north, the role of Indigenous youth in climate governance has been a lesser focus of inquiry. A popularized assumption in some literature is that youth have little to contribute to discussions on climate change and other aspects of land and resource management; such downplay of youth expertise and engagement may be contributing to climate anxiety (e.g., feelings of hopelessness), particularly in remote communities. Creating opportunities for youth to have a voice in global forums such as the United Nations Conference of Parties (COP24) on Climate Change may offset such anxiety. Building on previous research related to climate action, and the well-being of Indigenous youth, this paper shares the outcomes of research with Indigenous youth (along with family and teachers) from the Mackenzie River Basin who attended COP24 to determine the value of their experience. Key questions guiding these interviews included: How did youth impact others? and How did youth benefit from the experience? Key insights related to the value of a global experience; multiple youth presentations at COP24 were heard by hundreds of people who sought to learn more from youth about their experience of climate change. Additional insights were gathered about the importance of family and community (i.e., webs of support); social networks were seen as key to the success of youth who participated in the event and contributed to youth learning and leadership development. |
![]() | Proverbs, Tracey A; Lantz, Trevor C; of Heritage, Gwich’in Tribal Council Department Cultural Cumulative Environmental Impacts in the Gwich’in Cultural Landscape Journal Article Sustainability, 12 (4667), 2020. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Canadian subarctic, cultural feature, cultural landscape, cumulative impact assessment, Gwich'in, spatial overlay analysis @article{Proverbs2020, title = {Cumulative Environmental Impacts in the Gwich’in Cultural Landscape}, author = {Tracey A. Proverbs and Trevor C. Lantz and Gwich’in Tribal Council Department of Cultural Heritage}, url = {https://doi.org/10.3390/su12114667}, doi = {10.3390/su12114667}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-06-08}, journal = {Sustainability}, volume = {12}, number = {4667}, abstract = {Environmental changes are impacting northern environments and human communities. Cumulative impact assessments are vital to understanding the combined effects of regional industrial developments and natural disturbances that affect humans and ecosystems. A gap in cumulative impacts literature includes methods to evaluate impacts in cultural landscapes. In this study, we utilized spatial overlay analysis to assess cumulative environmental impacts in the cultural landscape of northern Canada’s Gwich’in Settlement Region. In three analyses, we quantified and mapped: (1) Cultural feature density, (2) cumulative environmental disturbance, and (3) potential overlap between disturbances and cultural features. Our first analysis depicts the extent and pattern of cultural relationships with regional landscapes and illustrates the Gwich’in cultural landscape, with widespread harvesting trails, named places, traditional use areas, and archaeological sites found in highest densities near important waterways. Our second analysis suggests that spatial overlay can track multiple disturbances, illustrating diffuse, lower intensity cumulative environmental impacts. The final analysis shows that overlaying disturbance and cultural feature data provides a novel way to investigate cumulative impacts in a cultural landscape, indicating relatively low levels of potential overlap between Gwich’in cultural features and disturbances. These methods provide one way to investigate cumulative impacts, relevant for well- documented cultural landscapes. }, keywords = {Canadian subarctic, cultural feature, cultural landscape, cumulative impact assessment, Gwich'in, spatial overlay analysis}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Environmental changes are impacting northern environments and human communities. Cumulative impact assessments are vital to understanding the combined effects of regional industrial developments and natural disturbances that affect humans and ecosystems. A gap in cumulative impacts literature includes methods to evaluate impacts in cultural landscapes. In this study, we utilized spatial overlay analysis to assess cumulative environmental impacts in the cultural landscape of northern Canada’s Gwich’in Settlement Region. In three analyses, we quantified and mapped: (1) Cultural feature density, (2) cumulative environmental disturbance, and (3) potential overlap between disturbances and cultural features. Our first analysis depicts the extent and pattern of cultural relationships with regional landscapes and illustrates the Gwich’in cultural landscape, with widespread harvesting trails, named places, traditional use areas, and archaeological sites found in highest densities near important waterways. Our second analysis suggests that spatial overlay can track multiple disturbances, illustrating diffuse, lower intensity cumulative environmental impacts. The final analysis shows that overlaying disturbance and cultural feature data provides a novel way to investigate cumulative impacts in a cultural landscape, indicating relatively low levels of potential overlap between Gwich’in cultural features and disturbances. These methods provide one way to investigate cumulative impacts, relevant for well- documented cultural landscapes. |
![]() | Freitas, Carolina T; Espírito-Santo, Helder M V; Campos-Silva, João V; Peres, Carlos A; Lopes, Priscila F M Resource co-management as a step towards gender equity in fisheries Journal Article Ecological Economics, 176 (106709), 2020, ISSN: 0921-8009. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Amazonia, Arapaima, female income, Pirarucu, small-scale fisheries, Women @article{Freitas2020, title = {Resource co-management as a step towards gender equity in fisheries}, author = {Carolina T. Freitas and Helder M.V. Espírito-Santo and João V. Campos-Silva and Carlos A. Peres and Priscila F.M. Lopes}, editor = {S. Baumgärtner, R.B. Howarth}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolecon.2020.106709}, issn = {0921-8009}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-06-05}, journal = {Ecological Economics}, volume = {176}, number = {106709}, abstract = {Women greatly contribute to fisheries worldwide, representing 47% of the global fisheries' workforce. Yet female fishing roles often go unrecognized. In the Brazilian Amazonia, arapaima (Arapaima spp.) co-management, which began in the 2000s, may represent a significant change in this scenario. To assess the impact of arapaima co-management on women recognition in fisheries, we conducted a comprehensive assessment at 54 fishing communities, across ~1500-km of a major Amazonian river. Based on quantitative data from interviews with 143 women, we show that arapaima co-management represented an innovative source of female income from fisheries and an unprecedented recognition of women participation in fishing activities. In communities with arapaima co-management, median female fishing revenue was US$ 215/yr and mean probability of women earning income from fisheries was 77%, a marked difference from the virtually non-existent female fishing income at communities without arapaima co-management (median = US$ 0; mean probability = 8%). Although many women often participate in commercial fisheries, arapaima co-management has been the only source of fishing income for most of them. We discuss the potentials, limitations and broad implications of our case study, which can serve as a model to be adapted to other extractive economies worldwide seeking to enhance gender equity.}, keywords = {Amazonia, Arapaima, female income, Pirarucu, small-scale fisheries, Women}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Women greatly contribute to fisheries worldwide, representing 47% of the global fisheries' workforce. Yet female fishing roles often go unrecognized. In the Brazilian Amazonia, arapaima (Arapaima spp.) co-management, which began in the 2000s, may represent a significant change in this scenario. To assess the impact of arapaima co-management on women recognition in fisheries, we conducted a comprehensive assessment at 54 fishing communities, across ~1500-km of a major Amazonian river. Based on quantitative data from interviews with 143 women, we show that arapaima co-management represented an innovative source of female income from fisheries and an unprecedented recognition of women participation in fishing activities. In communities with arapaima co-management, median female fishing revenue was US$ 215/yr and mean probability of women earning income from fisheries was 77%, a marked difference from the virtually non-existent female fishing income at communities without arapaima co-management (median = US$ 0; mean probability = 8%). Although many women often participate in commercial fisheries, arapaima co-management has been the only source of fishing income for most of them. We discuss the potentials, limitations and broad implications of our case study, which can serve as a model to be adapted to other extractive economies worldwide seeking to enhance gender equity. |
![]() | Silvano, Renato Azevedo Matias; Hallwass, Gustavo Participatory Research with Fishers to Improve Knowledge on Small-Scale Fisheries in Tropical Rivers Journal Article Sustainability, 12 (11), pp. 4487, 2020. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: abundance trends, Brazilian Amazon, fisheries management, fisheries monitoring, fisheries sustainability, interviews, mapping, Peacock bass, Tapajos River @article{Silvano2020, title = {Participatory Research with Fishers to Improve Knowledge on Small-Scale Fisheries in Tropical Rivers}, author = {Renato Azevedo Matias Silvano and Gustavo Hallwass}, url = {https://doi.org/10.3390/su12114487}, doi = {10.3390/su12114487}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-06-01}, journal = {Sustainability}, volume = {12}, number = {11}, pages = {4487}, abstract = {Freshwater small-scale fisheries sustain millions of livelihoods worldwide, but a lack of monitoring makes it difficult to check the sustainability of these fisheries. We aim to compare and describe participatory research methods used in studies with fishers in the Tapajos River, a poorly known tropical river in the Brazilian Amazon. We address three interview approaches, two ways to do fisheries monitoring and two approaches for georeferenced mapping based on fishers’ knowledge, which can provide data about at least 16 topics related to fisheries. We highlight major advantages and shortcomings of these methods and illustrate their potential with examples of results on fisheries and fish biology of Peacock bass (Cichla spp. tucunaré in Brazil), an important commercial fish in the Brazilian Amazon. The interviews, participatory monitoring and mapping revealed which fish are more valued by local communities, how fish abundance and sizes varied over time, when fish are more often caught and show reproductive activity, and which sites or habitats fish need to reproduce. In addition to providing useful data from many sites in a cost-effective way, participatory methods can bring the additional benefit of including local stakeholders in the monitoring, management, and research activities.}, keywords = {abundance trends, Brazilian Amazon, fisheries management, fisheries monitoring, fisheries sustainability, interviews, mapping, Peacock bass, Tapajos River}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Freshwater small-scale fisheries sustain millions of livelihoods worldwide, but a lack of monitoring makes it difficult to check the sustainability of these fisheries. We aim to compare and describe participatory research methods used in studies with fishers in the Tapajos River, a poorly known tropical river in the Brazilian Amazon. We address three interview approaches, two ways to do fisheries monitoring and two approaches for georeferenced mapping based on fishers’ knowledge, which can provide data about at least 16 topics related to fisheries. We highlight major advantages and shortcomings of these methods and illustrate their potential with examples of results on fisheries and fish biology of Peacock bass (Cichla spp. tucunaré in Brazil), an important commercial fish in the Brazilian Amazon. The interviews, participatory monitoring and mapping revealed which fish are more valued by local communities, how fish abundance and sizes varied over time, when fish are more often caught and show reproductive activity, and which sites or habitats fish need to reproduce. In addition to providing useful data from many sites in a cost-effective way, participatory methods can bring the additional benefit of including local stakeholders in the monitoring, management, and research activities. |
![]() | Runde, Anne; Hallwass, Gustavo; Silvano, Renato A M Fishers' Knowledge Indicates Extensive Socioecological Impacts Downstream of Proposed Dams in a Tropical River Journal Article One Earth, 2 (3), 2020, ISSN: 2590-3330. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Amazon Basin, fisheries sustainability, fishing sites, food security, hydroelectric development, interviews, local ecological knowledge, small-scale fisheries, socioecological systems, Tapajos River @article{Runde2020, title = {Fishers' Knowledge Indicates Extensive Socioecological Impacts Downstream of Proposed Dams in a Tropical River}, author = {Anne Runde and Gustavo Hallwass and Renato A.M. Silvano }, url = {https://www.cell.com/one-earth/fulltext/S2590-3322(20)30093-2}, doi = {10.1016/j.oneear.2020.02.012}, issn = {2590-3330}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-03-12}, journal = {One Earth}, volume = {2}, number = {3}, abstract = {Brazil's hydroelectricity sector is rapidly expanding, and several dams are planned in Amazonian rivers. The impacts on the fisheries downstream of the dams have largely been overlooked by official impact assessments. Here, we gather fishery baseline data from interviews with 171 fishers in 16 communities along a ∼275-km stretch of the Tapajos River, located downstream of a proposed dam. The results indicate that fishing constitutes a key source of food and income for fishers and their communities and that the impact of the dam on the fisheries will potentially extend much further than the officially recognized affected area. By ignoring the effects of the dams on downstream communities, impact assessments have severely underestimated the number of people who would be affected by the dams. Therefore, a thorough evaluation of downstream fishers needs to be conducted prior to river impoundment and be considered by development plans.}, keywords = {Amazon Basin, fisheries sustainability, fishing sites, food security, hydroelectric development, interviews, local ecological knowledge, small-scale fisheries, socioecological systems, Tapajos River}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Brazil's hydroelectricity sector is rapidly expanding, and several dams are planned in Amazonian rivers. The impacts on the fisheries downstream of the dams have largely been overlooked by official impact assessments. Here, we gather fishery baseline data from interviews with 171 fishers in 16 communities along a ∼275-km stretch of the Tapajos River, located downstream of a proposed dam. The results indicate that fishing constitutes a key source of food and income for fishers and their communities and that the impact of the dam on the fisheries will potentially extend much further than the officially recognized affected area. By ignoring the effects of the dams on downstream communities, impact assessments have severely underestimated the number of people who would be affected by the dams. Therefore, a thorough evaluation of downstream fishers needs to be conducted prior to river impoundment and be considered by development plans. |
![]() | Baird, Ian G; Manorom, Kanokwan; Phenow, Aurore; Gaja-Svasti, Sirisak Opening the Gates of the Pak Mun Dam: Fish Migrations, Domestic Water Supply, Irrigation Projects and Politics Journal Article Water Alternatives, 13 (1), pp. 141-159, 2020. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: fish migration, fisheries, hydropower dams, infrastructure, Pak Mun, Thailand @article{Baird2020, title = {Opening the Gates of the Pak Mun Dam: Fish Migrations, Domestic Water Supply, Irrigation Projects and Politics}, author = {Ian G. Baird and Kanokwan Manorom and Aurore Phenow and Sirisak Gaja-Svasti}, url = {http://www.water-alternatives.org/index.php/alldoc/articles/vol13/v13issue1/568-a13-1-7, Water Alternatives journal link http://www.water-alternatives.org/index.php/alldoc/articles/vol13/v13issue1/568-a13-1-7/file, Water Alternatives PDF link}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-02-08}, journal = {Water Alternatives}, volume = {13}, number = {1}, pages = {141-159}, abstract = {The Pak Mun Dam on the Mun River in Ubon Ratchathani Province in northeastern Thailand has long been one of the most controversial hydropower projects in Southeast Asia. The environmental and social impacts associated with blocking important fish migrations between the mainstream Mekong River and the Mun River Basin are particularly well known. Fishers, non-governmental organisations and academics have advocated for opening the gates of the dam either year-round or at least for an extended period, and especially at the beginning of the rainy season when a large number of fish migrate upstream. Crucially, however, the dam's gates are not always opened at the beginning of the rainy season as required by previous agreements. Water management issues associated with opening the Pak Mun Dam have become increasingly complex and fraught because of additional challenges relating to the construction of new infrastructure such as irrigation dams on tributaries, and because of an increasing demand for piped domestic water to supply urban dwellers in Ubon Ratchathani City. In this paper, we adopt a political ecology approach to examine the present economic, ecological and political circumstances associated with the management of the Pak Mun Dam, including the trade-offs associated with different possible management decisions.}, keywords = {fish migration, fisheries, hydropower dams, infrastructure, Pak Mun, Thailand}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } The Pak Mun Dam on the Mun River in Ubon Ratchathani Province in northeastern Thailand has long been one of the most controversial hydropower projects in Southeast Asia. The environmental and social impacts associated with blocking important fish migrations between the mainstream Mekong River and the Mun River Basin are particularly well known. Fishers, non-governmental organisations and academics have advocated for opening the gates of the dam either year-round or at least for an extended period, and especially at the beginning of the rainy season when a large number of fish migrate upstream. Crucially, however, the dam's gates are not always opened at the beginning of the rainy season as required by previous agreements. Water management issues associated with opening the Pak Mun Dam have become increasingly complex and fraught because of additional challenges relating to the construction of new infrastructure such as irrigation dams on tributaries, and because of an increasing demand for piped domestic water to supply urban dwellers in Ubon Ratchathani City. In this paper, we adopt a political ecology approach to examine the present economic, ecological and political circumstances associated with the management of the Pak Mun Dam, including the trade-offs associated with different possible management decisions. |
2019 |
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![]() | Carolina Tavaresde Freitas Priscila F. Macedo Lopes, João Vitor Campos-Silva Mae Noble Robert Dyball Carlos Peres M A Co‐management of culturally important species: A tool to promote biodiversity conservation and human well‐being Journal Article People and Nature, 2 (1), pp. 61-81, 2019, ISSN: 2575-8314. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Amazon, Arapaima spp., collaborative management, cultural keystone species, culturally significant species, Podocnemis spp, resource use, traditional people @article{Freitas2019, title = {Co‐management of culturally important species: A tool to promote biodiversity conservation and human well‐being}, author = {Carolina Tavaresde Freitas, Priscila F. Macedo Lopes, João Vitor Campos-Silva, Mae M. Noble, Robert Dyball, Carlos A. Peres}, editor = {Juliette Young}, doi = {10.1002/pan3.10064}, issn = {2575-8314}, year = {2019}, date = {2019-12-13}, journal = {People and Nature}, volume = {2}, number = {1}, pages = {61-81}, abstract = {1. Co‐management has been advocated as an effective tool to achieve natural resource conservation worldwide. Yet, the potential of co‐management arrangements can fail to be realized when there is insufficient local engagement. 2. In this perspective paper, we argue that co‐management schemes focusing on culturally important species (CIS) can help overcome this issue by engaging local people's interest. 3. To develop this theory, we explore published data on the outcomes of two management schemes, both encompassing multiple independent initiatives, to discuss CIS‐management effects and benefits. 4. We also show a compilation of CIS examples throughout the world and discuss the potential of CIS‐management to reach a global audience. 5.Based on these data, we argue that CIS‐management can be an effective tool to reconcile the often intractable goals of biodiversity conservation and human welfare.}, keywords = {Amazon, Arapaima spp., collaborative management, cultural keystone species, culturally significant species, Podocnemis spp, resource use, traditional people}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } 1. Co‐management has been advocated as an effective tool to achieve natural resource conservation worldwide. Yet, the potential of co‐management arrangements can fail to be realized when there is insufficient local engagement. 2. In this perspective paper, we argue that co‐management schemes focusing on culturally important species (CIS) can help overcome this issue by engaging local people's interest. 3. To develop this theory, we explore published data on the outcomes of two management schemes, both encompassing multiple independent initiatives, to discuss CIS‐management effects and benefits. 4. We also show a compilation of CIS examples throughout the world and discuss the potential of CIS‐management to reach a global audience. 5.Based on these data, we argue that CIS‐management can be an effective tool to reconcile the often intractable goals of biodiversity conservation and human welfare. |
![]() | Baird, Ian G; Manorom, Kanokwan Mobilities, 14 (6), pp. 762-777, 2019, ISSN: 1745-011X. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Cambodia, fish migration, Laos, local ecological knowledge, Thailand @article{Baird2019b, title = {Migrating fish and mobile knowledge: situated fishers' knowledge and social networks in the lower Mekong River Basin in Thailand, Laos and Cambodia }, author = {Ian G. Baird and Kanokwan Manorom}, url = {https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17450101.2019.1635343, Mobilities journal link https://www.trackingchange.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Baird-and-Manorom-2019-Migrating-fish-and-mobile-knowledge.pdf, Tracking Change PDF link}, doi = {10.1080/17450101.2019.1635343}, issn = {1745-011X}, year = {2019}, date = {2019-07-24}, journal = {Mobilities}, volume = {14}, number = {6}, pages = {762-777}, abstract = {Various terms are used to characterize fishers' knowledge. Here we use situated fishers' knowledge to refer to knowledge about long-distance fish migrations held by ethnic Lao fishers living in the Mekong River Basin in northeastern Thailand, southern Laos, and northeastern Cambodia. We consider the mobility of knowledge, humans, and fish, and adopt a theoretical framework based on Actor Network Theory (ANT) and political ecology. Based on fisher interviews, we demonstrate why knowledge transfer related to fish migrations is important. Fishers have various ways of knowing when migratory fish pass certain locations, although those are changing due to borders and technological changes. The paper's main contribution is to move beyond simply investigating human mobilities, and to instead consider the relationships between human, fish and knowledgemobilities, something that ANT is particularly well suited for, due to its focus on multispecies interactions, something that mobilities scholars would benefit from paying more attention to.}, keywords = {Cambodia, fish migration, Laos, local ecological knowledge, Thailand}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Various terms are used to characterize fishers' knowledge. Here we use situated fishers' knowledge to refer to knowledge about long-distance fish migrations held by ethnic Lao fishers living in the Mekong River Basin in northeastern Thailand, southern Laos, and northeastern Cambodia. We consider the mobility of knowledge, humans, and fish, and adopt a theoretical framework based on Actor Network Theory (ANT) and political ecology. Based on fisher interviews, we demonstrate why knowledge transfer related to fish migrations is important. Fishers have various ways of knowing when migratory fish pass certain locations, although those are changing due to borders and technological changes. The paper's main contribution is to move beyond simply investigating human mobilities, and to instead consider the relationships between human, fish and knowledgemobilities, something that ANT is particularly well suited for, due to its focus on multispecies interactions, something that mobilities scholars would benefit from paying more attention to. |
Belanger, Brendan Tracking Denesoline Knowledge and Narratives along Ancestral Waters Masters Thesis University of Waterloo, 2019. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Canadian arctic, cultural values, Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), travel @mastersthesis{Belanger2019, title = {Tracking Denesoline Knowledge and Narratives along Ancestral Waters}, author = {Brendan Belanger}, url = {http://hdl.handle.net/10012/14779, University of Waterloo UWSPACE link https://uwspace.uwaterloo.ca/bitstream/handle/10012/14779/Belanger_Brendan.pdf, University of Waterloo PDF link}, doi = {10012/14779}, year = {2019}, date = {2019-06-26}, address = {University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada N2L 3G1}, school = {University of Waterloo}, abstract = {The south slave region of the Great Slave Lake in the Northwest Territories of Canada is the home of the Łutsël K’é Dene First Nation (LKDFN) (Pelly, 1996). Like many Indigenous communities across Canada, the Denesoline relationships with their ancestral lands have become increasingly more vulnerable due to ecological, and sociological changes occurring in the sub-arctic regions of Canada (Holmes et al, 2016; Asfeldt & Henderson, 2010; Pelly 1996). Previous studies indicate how these changes affect the livelihoods of Denesoline communities but tend to ignore the contemporary spaces wherein Denesoline livelihoods are present. This study builds upon current literature by contextualising the positive and negative aspects of ecological and social change within the experiences of LKDFN representatives participating in a multi-day travel experience. This study illuminates Denesoline livelihoods in the present through the application of Northern, Indigenous, community-based research and by illuminating the knowledge through the narratives of land users, elders, and youth involved. The study’s principle aim has been to work in partnership with LKDFN representatives to document how traditional land-based knowledge and narratives can contribute to Dene self-determination, land and water governance, and cultural livelihoods.}, keywords = {Canadian arctic, cultural values, Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), travel}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {mastersthesis} } The south slave region of the Great Slave Lake in the Northwest Territories of Canada is the home of the Łutsël K’é Dene First Nation (LKDFN) (Pelly, 1996). Like many Indigenous communities across Canada, the Denesoline relationships with their ancestral lands have become increasingly more vulnerable due to ecological, and sociological changes occurring in the sub-arctic regions of Canada (Holmes et al, 2016; Asfeldt & Henderson, 2010; Pelly 1996). Previous studies indicate how these changes affect the livelihoods of Denesoline communities but tend to ignore the contemporary spaces wherein Denesoline livelihoods are present. This study builds upon current literature by contextualising the positive and negative aspects of ecological and social change within the experiences of LKDFN representatives participating in a multi-day travel experience. This study illuminates Denesoline livelihoods in the present through the application of Northern, Indigenous, community-based research and by illuminating the knowledge through the narratives of land users, elders, and youth involved. The study’s principle aim has been to work in partnership with LKDFN representatives to document how traditional land-based knowledge and narratives can contribute to Dene self-determination, land and water governance, and cultural livelihoods. | |
Martin, Chelsea The Importance of Traditional Ecological Knowledge during times of Change in the Sahtú Region Masters Thesis University of Alberta, 2019. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) @mastersthesis{Martin2019, title = {The Importance of Traditional Ecological Knowledge during times of Change in the Sahtú Region}, author = {Chelsea Martin}, url = { https://era.library.ualberta.ca/items/31da358f-d2b6-4d1f-b7fa-cee15409dc65/download/4bb3fd3b-48a5-49f8-bbc4-bbcd045ed34e, University of Alberta PDF link}, doi = {10.7939/r3-64ca-w573}, year = {2019}, date = {2019-06-04}, address = {University of Alberta, Faculty of Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences, Resource Economics & Environmental Sociology, Edmonton, AB}, school = {University of Alberta}, abstract = {This study aims to provide insight into the phenomenon and impacts of climate change in the Canadian Subarctic region, based on research with youth and elders from the community of Délįne located on Great Bear Lake (GBL) in the Mackenzie River Basin. In collaboration with the Sahtú Renewable Resources Board, the thesis research focused on understanding two key questions. What is climate change from the perspective of Délįne Got’ine people and their traditional knowledge (oral histories) of climate in the region? What are the impacts of climate change on the fishing livelihoods of the Délįne Got’ine people? Over the course of one month, 21 semi-structured interviews were carried out and the results were analyzed and verified with community members. In addition to contributing practical outcomes to decision-makers in the community and the region, the work may also be considered important to the territorial and federal government whose climate change policies have been based on limited traditional knowledge. Given that the majority of research on climate change involving Indigenous peoples in Canada has focused on the high arctic and marine environments, the work is unique in its focus in the sub- arctic region and relative to freshwater ecosystems and livelihoods.}, keywords = {Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK)}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {mastersthesis} } This study aims to provide insight into the phenomenon and impacts of climate change in the Canadian Subarctic region, based on research with youth and elders from the community of Délįne located on Great Bear Lake (GBL) in the Mackenzie River Basin. In collaboration with the Sahtú Renewable Resources Board, the thesis research focused on understanding two key questions. What is climate change from the perspective of Délįne Got’ine people and their traditional knowledge (oral histories) of climate in the region? What are the impacts of climate change on the fishing livelihoods of the Délįne Got’ine people? Over the course of one month, 21 semi-structured interviews were carried out and the results were analyzed and verified with community members. In addition to contributing practical outcomes to decision-makers in the community and the region, the work may also be considered important to the territorial and federal government whose climate change policies have been based on limited traditional knowledge. Given that the majority of research on climate change involving Indigenous peoples in Canada has focused on the high arctic and marine environments, the work is unique in its focus in the sub- arctic region and relative to freshwater ecosystems and livelihoods. | |
D'Souza, Amabel University of Alberta, 2019. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: diversification, fishing livelihoods, Mekong @mastersthesis{D'Souza2019, title = {Diversification of Livelihoods in a Region Impacted by Hydroelectric Development: A Case Study in the Lower Mekong (Mun River/Sebok River)}, author = {Amabel D'Souza}, url = {https://doi.org/10.7939/r3-9kwy-8738, University of Alberta ERA link https://era.library.ualberta.ca/items/3b430d64-1a86-41fc-b95c-964d0e4ce1e8/download/47eabad7-1648-4d38-b488-e48ecafc42b7, University of Alberta PDF link }, doi = {10.7939/r3-9kwy-8738}, year = {2019}, date = {2019-06-04}, address = {University of Alberta, Faculty of Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences, Resource Economics & Environmental Sociology, Edmonton, AB}, school = {University of Alberta}, abstract = {Local people living along the Mun River and its tributaries, have a deep connection to this fresh water ecosystem and have longstanding knowledge, practices and norms that are critical to their fishing livelihoods. However due to the rapid development of hydropower in the Mekong Basin, fishing livelihoods are becoming increasingly complicated by environmental impacts. Many households and communities are thus diversifying their livelihoods in an effort to adapt to the associated ecological and socio-economic changes in their regions. There is a large literature on the impacts of hydroelectric development in the region, however, there has been limited research on diversifications and how they vary spatially; there has also been little research focused on community-based resource management including roles and use and how they have changed in the context of hydroelectric development. To address these gaps an exploratory case study was carried out in the nine communities of Baan Hua, Hew #11, Baan Hua Hew #4, Baan Na Choom Chon, Baan Huay Mak Tai, Baan Kho Tai, Baan Don Sumran, Baan Wangsabang Tai, Baan Thalat and Baan Doom Yai in the Mun and Sebok river areas since the implementation of the Pak Mun Dam. Twenty-six semi-structured interviews were conducted in this area in an effort to better understand historical fishing practices and diversifications in livelihoods that have taken place over the last two decades. Additionally, an examination of the rules and practices of these communities are taken into account. To better understand how households and communities are coping with changes in their livelihoods and local aquatic ecosystems, research was also carried out to learn more about rules in use; specifically, what kinds of rules and practices have been developed to ensure both social and ecological sustainability? This research, therefore, has been conducted in the hopes of providing useful and important details about community diversifications and experiences, as well as potentially contribute to the literature needed to address the lack of Local Ecological Knowledge in terms of policy change in this region.}, keywords = {diversification, fishing livelihoods, Mekong}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {mastersthesis} } Local people living along the Mun River and its tributaries, have a deep connection to this fresh water ecosystem and have longstanding knowledge, practices and norms that are critical to their fishing livelihoods. However due to the rapid development of hydropower in the Mekong Basin, fishing livelihoods are becoming increasingly complicated by environmental impacts. Many households and communities are thus diversifying their livelihoods in an effort to adapt to the associated ecological and socio-economic changes in their regions. There is a large literature on the impacts of hydroelectric development in the region, however, there has been limited research on diversifications and how they vary spatially; there has also been little research focused on community-based resource management including roles and use and how they have changed in the context of hydroelectric development. To address these gaps an exploratory case study was carried out in the nine communities of Baan Hua, Hew #11, Baan Hua Hew #4, Baan Na Choom Chon, Baan Huay Mak Tai, Baan Kho Tai, Baan Don Sumran, Baan Wangsabang Tai, Baan Thalat and Baan Doom Yai in the Mun and Sebok river areas since the implementation of the Pak Mun Dam. Twenty-six semi-structured interviews were conducted in this area in an effort to better understand historical fishing practices and diversifications in livelihoods that have taken place over the last two decades. Additionally, an examination of the rules and practices of these communities are taken into account. To better understand how households and communities are coping with changes in their livelihoods and local aquatic ecosystems, research was also carried out to learn more about rules in use; specifically, what kinds of rules and practices have been developed to ensure both social and ecological sustainability? This research, therefore, has been conducted in the hopes of providing useful and important details about community diversifications and experiences, as well as potentially contribute to the literature needed to address the lack of Local Ecological Knowledge in terms of policy change in this region. | |
Oloriz, Carrie Royal Roads University, 2019. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: biocultural conservation, cultural values, Giant Catfish, Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), White Sturgeon @mastersthesis{Oloriz2019, title = {Towards biocultural diversity conservation. Knowledge, cultural values and governance of species at risk : the case of the White Sturgeon (Canada) and the Mekong Giant Catfish (Thailand)}, author = {Carrie Oloriz}, url = {http://hdl.handle.net/10613/12776, Royal Roads University link https://viurrspace.ca/bitstream/handle/10613/12776/Oloriz_royalroads_1313O_10613.pdf, Royal Roads University PDF link}, doi = {10.25316/IR-7090}, year = {2019}, date = {2019-06-03}, address = {Royal Roads University, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada}, school = {Royal Roads University}, abstract = {To better understand the concept of biocultural diversity and its value in species conservation, my research explored the role of local fishers’ knowledge and cultural values in decision-making about the conservation of threatened, culturally significant fish in the Lower Fraser River (Canada) and the Mekong River (Thailand). This thesis uses exploratory, qualitative research into the case of the White Sturgeon or “skō:wech” (Acipenser transmountanus), and the Mekong Giant Catfish or “Plaa buek” (Pangasius gigas). Through semi-structured interviews and a review of existing information, this research set out to determine: 1) What kinds of knowledge do local fishers have about threatened species? 2) Are Local and Traditional Ecological Knowledge influencing processes (research, assessment, monitoring) and informing conservation strategies for threatened species? If so, how? 3) Do cultural values influence conservation strategies for threatened species? If so, how? 4) Are there any opportunities to increase the role of local knowledge and cultural values to enhance existing conservation strategies and achieve both biological and cultural diversity conservation? Results suggest although there are some examples of success, there are opportunities to increase the influence local fishers’ knowledge and values have in current approaches employed to conserve species with special conservation status. Maintaining some level of traditional fishery, and support for cultural practices, education and outreach are critical aspects of maintaining culture, values and knowledge systems linked to these threatened species.}, keywords = {biocultural conservation, cultural values, Giant Catfish, Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK), White Sturgeon}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {mastersthesis} } To better understand the concept of biocultural diversity and its value in species conservation, my research explored the role of local fishers’ knowledge and cultural values in decision-making about the conservation of threatened, culturally significant fish in the Lower Fraser River (Canada) and the Mekong River (Thailand). This thesis uses exploratory, qualitative research into the case of the White Sturgeon or “skō:wech” (Acipenser transmountanus), and the Mekong Giant Catfish or “Plaa buek” (Pangasius gigas). Through semi-structured interviews and a review of existing information, this research set out to determine: 1) What kinds of knowledge do local fishers have about threatened species? 2) Are Local and Traditional Ecological Knowledge influencing processes (research, assessment, monitoring) and informing conservation strategies for threatened species? If so, how? 3) Do cultural values influence conservation strategies for threatened species? If so, how? 4) Are there any opportunities to increase the role of local knowledge and cultural values to enhance existing conservation strategies and achieve both biological and cultural diversity conservation? Results suggest although there are some examples of success, there are opportunities to increase the influence local fishers’ knowledge and values have in current approaches employed to conserve species with special conservation status. Maintaining some level of traditional fishery, and support for cultural practices, education and outreach are critical aspects of maintaining culture, values and knowledge systems linked to these threatened species. | |
![]() | Baird, Ian G; Manorom, Kanokwan; Phenow, Aurore; Gaja-Svasti, Sirasak What about the tributaries of the tributaries? Fish migrations, fisheries, dams and fishers’ knowledge in North-Eastern Thailand Journal Article International Journal of Water Resources Development, 36 (1), pp. 170-199, 2019. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: fisheries, hydropower dams, irrigation dams, Mekong, Sebok River, Thailand @article{Baird2019, title = {What about the tributaries of the tributaries? Fish migrations, fisheries, dams and fishers’ knowledge in North-Eastern Thailand}, author = {Ian G. Baird and Kanokwan Manorom and Aurore Phenow and Sirasak Gaja-Svasti}, doi = {10.1080/07900627.2019.1611549}, year = {2019}, date = {2019-05-28}, journal = {International Journal of Water Resources Development}, volume = {36}, number = {1}, pages = {170-199}, abstract = {The Pak Mun dam is among the most controversial hydropower projects in Thailand. However, the dam’s impacts on upriver tributaries have been neglected. We engaged fishers living in three villages along the Sebok River – a major tributary of the Mun River, upstream of the Pak Mun dam – to collect fish catch data for 24 months between 2014 and 2016. Using these data and fishers’ knowledge, the negative fishery impacts of the Pak Mun dam and the Ban Ot irrigation dam on the Sebok River were assessed. Both dams have negatively impacted Sebok River fisheries for migratory species.}, keywords = {fisheries, hydropower dams, irrigation dams, Mekong, Sebok River, Thailand}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } The Pak Mun dam is among the most controversial hydropower projects in Thailand. However, the dam’s impacts on upriver tributaries have been neglected. We engaged fishers living in three villages along the Sebok River – a major tributary of the Mun River, upstream of the Pak Mun dam – to collect fish catch data for 24 months between 2014 and 2016. Using these data and fishers’ knowledge, the negative fishery impacts of the Pak Mun dam and the Ban Ot irrigation dam on the Sebok River were assessed. Both dams have negatively impacted Sebok River fisheries for migratory species. |
Vazquez, Iria Heridia University of Ottawa, 2019. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: fishing livelihoods, food security, Local and Traditional Knowledge (LTK), socio-ecological systems @mastersthesis{Vazquez2019, title = {Implications of Socio-Ecological Changes for Inuvialuit Fishing Livelihoods and the Country Food System: The Role of Local and Traditional Knowledge}, author = {Iria Heridia Vazquez}, url = {https://ruor.uottawa.ca/handle/10393/39148, University of Ottawa link https://ruor.uottawa.ca/bitstream/10393/39148/3/Heredia_Vazquez_Iria_2019_thesis.pdf, University of Ottawa PDF link }, doi = {10.20381/ruor-23396}, year = {2019}, date = {2019-05-06}, address = {University of Ottawa Faculty of Arts, Department of Geography 60 University (047) Ottawa, ON Canada K1N 6N5}, school = {University of Ottawa}, abstract = {The Mackenzie River Delta is an ecologically rich freshwater environment in Canada’s Northwest Territories. It is vulnerable to multiple stressors such as climate change, resource development activities (oil and natural gas) and upstream-downstream linkages related to extraction activities in the southern part of the Mackenzie River watershed. Resultant socio-ecological impacts affect fishing livelihoods, which represent a significant component of the country food system and ways of life for Inuvialuit (Inuit of the Western Arctic), whose Settlement Area overlaps with the Delta. This thesis analyzes the implications of socio-ecological changes in the Mackenzie River Delta for Inuvialuit fishing livelihoods and the country food system, drawing from Local and Traditional Knowledge. In collaboration with the Fisheries Joint Management Committee in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region, the westernmost Inuit region in Canada, I undertook a participatory-qualitative research, while also drawing on relevant literature and complementary data. Using 28 semi-structured interviews about changes in the Mackenzie River Delta and the importance of fishing livelihoods, results indicated that fishing livelihoods are essential contributors to the Inuvialuit food system, as well as cultural practices surrounding fishing as an activity. Moreover, some results imply the importance of previously ignored species for food security, such as burbot and inconnu, which receive limited attention in other studies. Key findings also indicate that multiple environmental changes are occurring in the Delta, including lower water levels, increasing land erosion, decreasing fish populations, and changes in Delta-reliant wildlife populations (e.g. more beavers), warmer water temperatures, poorer fish quality (e.g. softer flesh, parasites), thinner ice, climate variability, and an escalating cost of living. These changes affect primarily fishing access and raise important concerns about the safety of fish consumption for human health. Ultimately, limited access and declining fish quality have a negative impact on food security, given the key role of fish in the country food system and the importance of socio-cultural dimensions such as fishing knowledge and skills, and sharing practices.}, keywords = {fishing livelihoods, food security, Local and Traditional Knowledge (LTK), socio-ecological systems}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {mastersthesis} } The Mackenzie River Delta is an ecologically rich freshwater environment in Canada’s Northwest Territories. It is vulnerable to multiple stressors such as climate change, resource development activities (oil and natural gas) and upstream-downstream linkages related to extraction activities in the southern part of the Mackenzie River watershed. Resultant socio-ecological impacts affect fishing livelihoods, which represent a significant component of the country food system and ways of life for Inuvialuit (Inuit of the Western Arctic), whose Settlement Area overlaps with the Delta. This thesis analyzes the implications of socio-ecological changes in the Mackenzie River Delta for Inuvialuit fishing livelihoods and the country food system, drawing from Local and Traditional Knowledge. In collaboration with the Fisheries Joint Management Committee in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region, the westernmost Inuit region in Canada, I undertook a participatory-qualitative research, while also drawing on relevant literature and complementary data. Using 28 semi-structured interviews about changes in the Mackenzie River Delta and the importance of fishing livelihoods, results indicated that fishing livelihoods are essential contributors to the Inuvialuit food system, as well as cultural practices surrounding fishing as an activity. Moreover, some results imply the importance of previously ignored species for food security, such as burbot and inconnu, which receive limited attention in other studies. Key findings also indicate that multiple environmental changes are occurring in the Delta, including lower water levels, increasing land erosion, decreasing fish populations, and changes in Delta-reliant wildlife populations (e.g. more beavers), warmer water temperatures, poorer fish quality (e.g. softer flesh, parasites), thinner ice, climate variability, and an escalating cost of living. These changes affect primarily fishing access and raise important concerns about the safety of fish consumption for human health. Ultimately, limited access and declining fish quality have a negative impact on food security, given the key role of fish in the country food system and the importance of socio-cultural dimensions such as fishing knowledge and skills, and sharing practices. | |
2018 |
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![]() | Michell, Herman; Jr., Joe Tsannie; Adam, Allan Green Theory & Praxis, 11 (1), pp. 3-17, 2018, ISSN: 1941-0948. Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: climate change, Denesuline, Elders, environment, Northern research, water protection @article{Michell2018, title = {Tu Ɂëhena – “Water is Life”: Tracking Changes on Land, Lake, and River Systems in the Northern Saskatchewan Athabasca Region from the Perspectives of Denesuline Peoples}, author = {Herman Michell and Joe Tsannie Jr. and Allan Adam}, editor = {Erik Juergensmeyer}, url = {http://greentheoryandpraxisjournal.org/gtpj-volume-11-issue-1-march-2018/, Green Theory & Praxis journal link http://greentheoryandpraxisjournal.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/GTP-Volume-11-Issue-1-March-2018.pdf, Green Theory & Practice PDF link}, issn = {1941-0948}, year = {2018}, date = {2018-03-09}, journal = {Green Theory & Praxis}, volume = {11}, number = {1}, pages = {3-17}, abstract = {The purpose of this article to share the results of a small scale qualitative study conducted in the Athabasca Region regarding changes that are occurring in the lake and river systems from the perspectives and stories of Denesuline Elders. The results suggest the region is facing ecological stress due to climate change and industrial activity. The study is part of a broader research project in the Mackenzie River Basin spearheaded by the University of Alberta entitled: Tracking Change: Local and Traditional Knowledge in Watershed Governance.}, keywords = {climate change, Denesuline, Elders, environment, Northern research, water protection}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } The purpose of this article to share the results of a small scale qualitative study conducted in the Athabasca Region regarding changes that are occurring in the lake and river systems from the perspectives and stories of Denesuline Elders. The results suggest the region is facing ecological stress due to climate change and industrial activity. The study is part of a broader research project in the Mackenzie River Basin spearheaded by the University of Alberta entitled: Tracking Change: Local and Traditional Knowledge in Watershed Governance. |