Amphibian Monitoring at Ross Lake with TerraNiche Environmental Solutions
At Ross Lake Provincial Park, you might have seen a team of workers doing analysis on the wildlife there. Have you ever wondered what they’re doing and why it’s important? Ecologist Lis Rach of TerraNiche Environmental Solutions led a team of environmental technicians from Gitxsan Environmental Services (GES) to monitor the amphibians at Ross Lake for the past two years. She agreed to let us interview her to tell us all about the project.
Tell us about your background in environmental services and about your company.
I have been practicing wildlife habitat ecologist (B.Sc., EP) in the Skeena Region since 2003 and specialize in wildlife and habitat ecology and management. I started Terraniche Environmental Solutions after the company I worked for closed the Smithers office in 2009. I enjoy being involved in projects that help protect our environment and promote wildlife and habitat conservation. As part of my job, I analyze ecological data, write reports on my findings, and create recommendations for monitoring, mitigation, and management. Mapping wildlife habitats is one of my passions. It effectively visualizes the current state and opens the door to conservation. Most of my work has been in the context of environmental assessments, monitoring, and research for a range of private, forestry, mining, and government clients. I am a responsible resource professional, accountable for both the process and products I complete.
Can you describe what your project at Ross Lake is about?
The Ross Lake project focuses on monitoring and the evaluation of amphibians residing in Ross Lake Provincial Park. Recently, an earthen dam was removed causing the lake levels to drop. BC Parks has engaged me to conduct a baseline assessment of the current lake conditions concerning amphibian populations. Through this assessment process, I am also establishing a monitoring program for amphibians to facilitate continuous future citizen monitoring.
Why do you think this project is important?
This project is very important! BC Parks are where people and the natural environment meet. It is important for people to be able to go to parks and enjoy what they have to offer. With a change such as the dam removal, it is also important to understand and mitigate any negative impacts caused by the change. Amphibians represent a group of animals that provide us with information on how a habitat is doing. They react immediately to change and in addition to the benefits of knowing when change happens, wildlife species diversity is key.
What got you interested in this project?
I have a particular interest in wetlands, and a keen interest in wildlife species that are dependent on these habitats, and how natural or anthropogenic processes affect them. Ross Lake is a very special and unique place in our region. I thought this project would be fun. I work with a competent team of technicians from GES.
What made you decide to work with Gitxsan Environmental Services?
BC Parks introduced me to GES. I have worked with some GES individuals in the past for other work and have a great respect for their work ethics and passion for the environment. I knew that their involvement in this project would enhance my understanding of ecological values and the work would facilitate biological knowledge for the team that they can use in other work projects.
Tell us about the event you were planning with the public.
Unfortunately, the event was cancelled. This is due to the timing of the event and the mass migration of the western toad from the lake to the forest. Many toadlets are killed as they try to cross the road that separates the lake from the forest where they are headed. Having the event will bring additional visitors to the park, increasing toadlet mortality. We are now planning for next year and by having the event prior to the onset of the mass migration, we can provide park wildlife interpretation and education while not interfering with the migration.
