Awarded to ʔakisq̓nuk First Nation to respond to recommendations of the 2021 Kootenay Bighorn Sheep Management Plan by identifying seasonal ranges and movement corridors, recording population estimates, identifying opportunities for habitat enhancement, and developing the ʔakisq̓nuk First Nation guardian program.
PROPONENT: ʔakisq̓nuk First Nation
Anne Marie Grant Photo
DESCRIPTION: The Columbia Lake Bighorn Sheep herd has fallen well below target population size (>120) in the past 5 years, with a recent count of 75 in 2023. In the 25 years since the last research was conducted on this herd, recreation and motorized trail use has grown exponentially, and development in lower elevations has further fragmented habitat. ʔakisq̓nuk First Nation will deploy GPS collars on 10 sheep in the herd to gather data on habitat use, movement patterns, and population health. This project is also aimed at developing the ʔakisq̓nuk First Nation guardian program, weaving Traditional Knowledge with western science to build experience within the band and increase capacity for ongoing conservation and landscape projects. The cultural importance of the area and focal species makes this an ideal project for AFN to develop their guardian program.
OBJECTIVE: Specific objectives are to:
1) Identify seasonal ranges and movement corridors for sheep; record population estimates, demographics, and recruitment;
2) Identify mortality and survival rates of collared sheep; identify any health concerns within the herd; and
3) Determine if recreation is impacting habitat use and movement; and conduct habitat assessments in high-use areas.
