A large 3 year project comprised of a collection of applied research projects supported by the Sustainability Scholars Program focused on restoring and protecting the endangered Fraser Estuary.

Overview

The Fraser Estuary Research Collaborative (FERC) has been generously supported with three years of funding from the Sitka Foundation. Starting summer 2022, cohorts of Sustainability Scholars have worked with mentors from NGO and other partner organizations to produce applied research on the critical and highly imperiled estuarine ecosystem adjacent to the UBC Vancouver campus.
 

IMPACT REPORTS

Download and read reports to learn more about the twenty-eight Sustainability Scholars projects and their important contribution towards revitalizing the health, abundance, diversity and resilience of the Fraser River Estuary.

Year 1   Year 2   Year 3

 

Funding Scholars

Climate change, biodiversity loss, and growing inequality are some of the most urgent issues facing our world today. Support from donors will allow scholars to make a direct impact through organizations doing the on-the-ground work needed to address climate change and other critical sustainability challenges..

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FEATURED PROJECTS

Explore projects completed by Sustainability Scholars for the Fraser Estuary Research Collaborative. 

Visualizing a Restored and Resilient Fraser Estuary: A Graphic Rendering of North Arm Intertidal Habitat Park

Ecological Systems
Natural Resources
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Challenges and opportunities to accelerate eelgrass and saltmarsh conservation and restoration in the Fraser River estuary

Ecological Systems
Natural Resources
Policy, Economics & Governance
Read more

Climate Change Indicators for Pacific Salmon in the Fraser River estuary

Climate Change & Energy
Ecological Systems
Read more

WORK WITH US

The Fraser Estuary Research Collaborative, through the Sustainability Scholars Program, provides paid internship opportunities to UBC graduate students with NGO partners working on applied research projects that advance protection and restoration of the Fraser River Estuary.

SUSTAINABILITY SCHOLARS PROGRAM

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PARTNER WITH FERC 

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APPLY FOR A SCHOLARS POSITION

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RELATED NEWS

Green Groups and Grad Students Meet at the Blue Cabin

Learn about Sustainability Scholars involved in year one of the Fraser Estuary Research Collaborative.
Read more
Ecological Systems
Natural Resources

Protecting biodiversity, culture, and ecosystem services in the Fraser River Estuary

Natural Resources

Paid summer internships to help protect BC’s most vital river

PROJECT LIBRARY

A flood toolbox: Visualizing flood mitigation options for First Nations communities of the Lower Fraser River

This project examines the possibilities for visualizations of flood mitigation interventions in proactive flood management for mainland Coast Salish communities along the Lower Fraser River. Through direct collaboration and site visits, visualizations were created for each community that reflect their unique flood-related risk situations and address the specific functional requirements for the visualizations of each location. Possible co-benefits of interventions were explored where applicable.

Partner: Emergency Planning Secretariat
Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords: ecological systems, flood mitigation, traditional ecological knowledge 

Climate Change & Energy
Human Well-being & Social Systems
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
PDF
2023
Connor Budd

Conservation messaging best practices for biodiversity conservation in the Fraser Estuary

The project aimed to enhance biodiversity conservation messaging in the Fraser Estuary, effectively communicating conservation efforts amidst ongoing biodiversity threats. Its objective is to raise awareness, shape attitudes, and prompt action toward biodiversity conservation in the region. The project outlined a six-step approach to crafting and delivering tailored conservation messages, emphasizing credibility, framing, storytelling, visuals, connections, and co-benefits for diverse audiences.

Partner: Garden City Conservation Society
Funder: UBC
Keywords: biodiversity, ecological systems, leadership & behaviour change 

Ecological Systems
Policy, Economics & Governance
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
PDF
2023
Qingyang Li

Cultivating for Waders: Identifying Beneficial Farming Practices for Shorebird Conservation on Agricultural Lands on the Fraser River Delta

This report examines the relationship between farming practices and shorebird conservation on the Fraser River Delta and globally. It includes a description of shorebird ecology, an outline of the state of shorebird habitat and agricultural land use on the FRD, and an analysis of current research on shorebird conservation. It concludes with research-based recommendations for farming practices to improve habitat for resident and migratory shorebirds on the Fraser River Delta.

Partner: Bird Studies Canada
Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords: biodiversity, ecological systems, food systems 

Ecological Systems
Natural Resources
Production, Consumption & Waste
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
PDF
2023
Vincent Steinfeld

Call of the Sea Wolf: The case for expanding the critical habitat of endangered Southern Resident killer whales

Southern Resident killer whales are an endangered population of orcas living in the coastal waters of southern British Columbia and Washington state. With only 74 individuals remaining, timely and meaningful action to protect this population is of critical importance. This report identifies the limitations of the Species at Risk Act and argues for expanding Southern Resident killer whale critical habitat into the Fraser River watershed to include Chinook salmon tributaries.

Partner: Raincoast Conservation
Foundation Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords: biodiversity, ecological systems, endangered species

Ecological Systems
Natural Resources
Policy, Economics & Governance
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
PDF
2023
Dane Pedersen

Introduced Canada Geese in the Fraser River Estuary: A Conservation Challenge

Introduced Canada Geese eating large amounts of vegetation in the Fraser estuary presents a conservation challenge. Loss of tidal marsh habitat caused by Canada Geese is occurring throughout the Fraser estuary, threatening salmon and ecological processes, and various cultural and economic values. This report documents the history and significance of this conservation challenge and presents findings that support the need for habitat restoration and collaborative stewardship in the Fraser estuary.

Partner: UBC Sustainability Hub
Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords:  biodiversity, conservation, restoration

Ecological Systems
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
pdf
2022
Dominic Janus

Research on agricultural land use regulations in the context of Indigenous food security

This project aims to understand agricultural law practices in British Columbia and how these have affected indigenous food security and sovereignty. This project examined historical land-use changes in the province as well as indigenous food systems. In an effort to rebuild an inclusive, nutritious, and resilient food system in the province, we have outlined recommendations for laws and policies. We hope this report will stimulate meaningful dialogue.
 

Partner: West Coast Environmental Law
Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords: food security, food sovereignty, Indigenous food systems, ALR (Agriculture Land Reserve)

Ecological Systems
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
pdf
2022
Jessica Mukiri

Evaluation of Regulations Governing Human Activities in the Lower Fraser relevant to Environmental Protection and Restoration

Over 150 years of colonial development have seriously harmed the ecological health of the Fraser estuary through destruction, harmful modification, and pollution of its lands and waters. This report focuses on one component of 'routine' planning and management in the estuary “land use plans“ by providing consolidated information about how shorelines are presently being managed in the estuary with regard to ecological health. 

Partner: West Coast Environmental Law
Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords: biodiversity, ecological systems, sustainable development & green economy

Ecological Systems
Natural Resources
Policy, Economics & Governance
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
pdf
2022
Audrey Irvine-Broque

Developing an Indigenous-centric cumulative effects framework to protect the Fraser River estuary

This project unpacks failings of currently-dominant (colonial) approaches to cumulative effects assessment and management and explores Indigenous-centric alternatives to support the Salish Sea Indigenous Guardians Association (SSIGA) in developing an Indigenous-centric cumulative effects framework. One that supports sustainable decision-making for the long-term holistic health of the Fraser River Estuary, in ways that center and empower the laws, ways of knowing, being, doing and valuing of member Nations. Findings are based on integrative literature review and iterative workshops with experts. 
To respect Indigenous knowledge governance the final report is confidential, but the Executive Summary is shared here and includes summaries of key shifts required, recommendations for various actors involved, and areas recommended for future research.

Partner: Salish Sea Indigenous Guardians Association (SSIGA)
Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords: biodiversity, restoration, conservation

Ecological Systems
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
pdf
2022
Jennifer Cutbill

Recommendations for Fine Scale Bird Monitoring to Inform the Impact of Wetland Restoration on the Fraser Delta

Worldwide, bird populations are under severe decline. Climate change, human activity, habitat loss and prey loss are the main drivers of these declines. Shorebirds, commonly called waders due to their behaviour of wading and foraging in intertidal mudflats and beaches, are also in decline. This report consists of a review of current shorebird and water bird monitoring protocols employed in the Americas and compares and contrasts their methods.  

Partner: Birds Canada
Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords: biodiversity, conservation, restoration

Ecological Systems
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
pdf
2022
Bretta McCall

Challenges and opportunities to accelerate eelgrass and saltmarsh conservation and restoration in the Fraser River estuary

This project gathered insights from a literature review and 31 practitioner interviews about the key challenges and opportunities that exist to accelerate eelgrass and tidal marsh conservation and restoration in the Fraser River estuary. Includes summaries of challenges and opportunities that were salient to interviewees, 10 priority actions, and ideas for how an NGO like WWF-Canada could contribute to eelgrass and tidal marsh recovery in the Fraser River estuary.

Partner: WWF-Canada
Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords:  biodiversity, ecological systems, ecological governance

Ecological Systems
Natural Resources
Policy, Economics & Governance
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
pdf
2022
Anna Santo

Assessing the potential for flood risk mitigation and Salmon habitat restoration in the Lower Fraser

This project aims to assess the potential of nature-based solutions (NBS) for reconnecting floodplains with rivers and offers benefits such as flood risk reduction and pacific salmon survival. The findings are based on a literature review and include recommendations for improving our understanding of the water storage capacity of multiple NBS, guidelines for stakeholder participation, and integrated decision-making tools that rank different NBS based on competing interests.

Partner: Lower Fraser Fisheries Alliance
Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords:  biodiversity, water

Ecological Systems
Natural Resources
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
pdf
2022
Sadia Ishaq

Visualizing a Restored and Resilient Fraser Estuary: A Graphic Rendering of North Arm Intertidal Habitat Park

This project aims to visually communicate the importance of restoration work for the health of the Lower Fraser River. Graphic renderings raise awareness, generate public support and motivate investors, making them useful tools for achieving ecological enhancement.  By visualizing the creation of "North Arm Intertidal Habitat Park" this project examines the importance of tidal marsh habitat, and proposes an opportunity for its restoration and protection within the Fraser River Estuary.

Partner: Rivershed Society of BC
Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords: biodiversity, ecological systems, restoration

Ecological Systems
Natural Resources
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
pdf
2022
Tess Adebar

Integrated flood management for climate, salmon, agriculture, and community resilience in the Lower Mainland

This research project involved a literature review to develop several case studies of collaborative flood management governance regimes that proactively consider climate change, ecosystems, food security, indigenous rights, and flood risk. To present valuable experiences from real-world case studies, the research reviewed several promising integrated floodplain management programs and some associated projects, such as a agricultural floodplain pilot, levee setbacks, and tidal marsh restoration.

Partner: Resilient Waters
Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords: sustainable development & green economy, flood risk, indigenous rights

Climate Change & Energy
Ecological Systems
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
pdf
2022
Saeed Mohammadiun

Climate Change Indicators for Pacific Salmon in the Fraser River estuary

This project aims to identify how climate change will alter the Fraser River estuary and the effects this will have on the Pacific salmon species that inhabit it. Climate indicators relevant to salmon populations are identified and analyzed for trends through time to understand the potential impact on salmon.

Partner: Pacific Salmon Foundation
Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords: biodiversity, ecological systems, water 

Climate Change & Energy
Ecological Systems
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
pdf
2022
Ian Chambers

Harnessing the Collective Power of Nature Clubs for Invasive Species Management

BC Nature is a federation of over 50 nature clubs throughout BC, and one of its main purposes is to support the work and goals of those clubs. Many of the clubs in the Lower Mainland conduct similar invasive species management activities, however, currently there is not enough communication and no collective strategy amongst them. This report identifies club actions that are benefiting species at risk and proposes collaborative projects with potential funding opportunities in the Lower Mainland.

Partner: BC Nature
Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords: biodiversity, ecological management, restoration

Ecological Systems
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
pdf
2022
Kephra Beckett

Traditional foodlands in the Fraser Estuary: Impacts of pollution, invasive species, and climate change on Indigenous food sovereignty

Settler colonial-capitalist policies have reduced the ability of Indigenous peoples to harvest foods from and enact food sovereignty within the Fraser River estuary. This report explores the repercussions of environmental change on traditional foods in the estuary, focusing on pollution, invasive species, and climate change. The report culminates in recommendations to support healthy habitat for traditional food species and recommendations for collaborating with Musqueam on food sovereignty.

Partner: Centre for Sustainable Food Systems
Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords: ecological systems, food systems, social sustainability

Climate Change & Energy
Ecological Systems
Human Well-being & Social Systems
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
pdf
2022
Katharine Baldwin

Exploring Opportunities to Accord the Fraser River Estuary Legal Recognition

This report explores the opportunities to grant legal recognition to the Fraser River estuary. This includes a global survey of rights-of-nature laws in other jurisdictions and an assessment of the feasibility of applying these models in the local context.

Partner: Raincoast Conservation Foundation
Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords: biodiversity, ecological systems, water

Ecological Systems
Natural Resources
Policy, Economics & Governance
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
pdf
2022
Avery Pasternak

Re-storying Our Relationship: As We Journey On The Pathway

The purpose of this project is to (a) Identify and create innovative approaches to research, knowledge sharing, storytelling and engagement by centring Indigenous and diverse lenses, and (b) Re-story and model how to implement walking A Pathway Together collaboratively.

Through respectful Indigenous and intercultural approaches, and centering the Coast Salish protocol, a holistic understanding of the interrelationships is invited.  Re-storying our relationships through an older oral traditions lens models both knowledge translation and dissemination across diverse perspectives.  Storytelling relays the rich nuanced cultural data being offered, encouraging connections between the Fraser River estuary, river, ocean and all who live within these communities, both human and non-human.

Partner: Sierra Club of British Columbia Foundation
Funder: UBC (Sitka Foundation)
Keywords: biodiversity, ecological systems, indigenous Coast Salish & intercultural lens

Climate Change & Energy
Ecological Systems
Human Well-being & Social Systems
Policy, Economics & Governance
FERC Sustainability Scholar
UBC Sustainability Scholars report
2022
Fiona Kelly

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