Nancy-Anne Rose (author)
Philip Burton (Thesis advisor)
University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)

2010

Master of Science (MSc)

Biology

Number of pages in document: 148

Current and predicted trends in climate are diverging from historic norms, thereby compromising the equilibrial basis of our resource management frameworks. This study investigates the impacts of climate change on biodiversity in the context of conservation planning for British Columbia's Central Interior. I used bioclimatic envelope modeling and a climate interpolation and general circulation model downscaling tool to assess 73 rare plant species, 103 biogeoclimatic variants, and 30 terrestrial ecosystem units. I mapped areas projected to support climate suitable for the persistence of those conservation targets through to the 2080s. Results illustrate the potential for disruptive change only 12% (24) of the 206 targets are projected to experience persistent climate at their current locations. Although strong overlap among locations projected to persist for different targets was not found, and those areas meeting multiple objectives (including value independent of climate change) are clear priorities for protection. This methodology can function as a valuable tool for conservation planners and resource managers. --P. [i]

Conservation of natural resources -- British Columbia.
Climatic changes -- British Columbia.
Natural resources -- British Columbia -- Management.

https://doi.org/10.24124/2010/bpgub689

thesis