SUMMARY REPORT
Adapting to Uncertain Futures Workshop (Phase 2)
Moving Toward Implementation:
Climate Change Adaptation and Community Planning in Alert Bay
December 6, 2007 Alert Bay, BC
Workshop report by:
Sarah Breen, Patricia Gallaugher, Nygil Goggins, Kelly Vodden, and Laurie Wood
Photos by: Robin Quirk
Adapting to Uncertain Futures in Alert Bay
Credits
‘Namgis First Nation: Chief Bill Cranmer and Council (welcome and support), George
Speck, Mona Madill, and Doug Aberley (organizing committee),
Jess Gordon (program production), Glen Nichol (AV and sound),
‘Namgis Technical Services, Peggy Svanvik (prayers and
wisdom)
Village of Alert Bay:
Madeline Macdonald (promotion/liaison with Regional District
and North Island Municipalities), Mayor John Rowell and
Council (support, chairs), Michael Berry (organizing committee)
Annemarie Koch, Workshop Facilitator, Sointula, Alert Bay Marine Research Society
Ethel Speck and Musgamagw/Tsawataineuk Tribal Council (sound system)
Christine O’Donnell (set up and hostess)
Patricia Gallaugher, Simon Fraser University Centre for Coastal Studies (organizing
committee)
Laurie Wood, Simon Fraser University Centre for Coastal Studies (organizing
committee)
Kelly Vodden, Memorial University Department of Geography (organizing committee)
Climate Impacts and Adaptation Program (CCIAP), Natural Resource Canada (funding
support)
Mike Brklacich and Maureen Woodrow, Department of Geography and Environmental
Studies, Carleton University (Lead Agency, Enhancing the Capacity of Canadian
Rural Communities to Adapt to Uncertain Futures Project)
Robin Quirk (photographer)
Inner Coast Natural Resource Centre
Invited guests, speakers and all participants
Chief William Cranmer – Welcome and opening words
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Table of Contents
Credits.............................................................................................................................1
Introduction.....................................................................................................................3
Workshop Purpose...........................................................................................................3
Background .....................................................................................................................4
Structure of Workshop.....................................................................................................4
Session A: Overview .......................................................................................................5
What existing community plans are in place?...........................................................5
In what ways are these plans sensitive to climate change? .......................................6
How does the community take adaptation to climate change and other stressors into
account in planning?................................................................................................7
Common Planning Issues and Constraints ...............................................................9
Session B: Overview .....................................................................................................10
Do existing plans adequately address relevant climate change issues?...................11
Suggestions for addressing issues raised in the morning session? ..........................11
What are the barriers for implementation that exist and how might they be
overcome? .............................................................................................................13
What lessons can be shared from the Alert Bay experience with other communities?
..............................................................................................................................14
Conclusions ...................................................................................................................14
Appendix A: Summary Table ........................................................................................16
Appendix B: Elementary School Workshop...................................................................18
Appendix C: Workshop Participants List .......................................................................20
Mayor John Rowell – Welcome and opening words
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Introduction
The following is a summary report of a workshop entitled Moving Toward Implementation:
Climate Change Adaptation and Community Planning in Alert Bay, held Dec. 6th at the Inner
Coast Natural Resource Centre in Alert Bay, BC. This workshop was Phase 2, and it built upon
what was accomplished at the 2006 workshop that addressed Phase 1, Enhancing the Capacity of
Canadian Rural Communities to Adapt to Uncertain Futures project. Phase 1 examined how
political, economic, social, cultural, and environmental factors shape community development,
community well-being, and community capacity to adapt. This workshop (Phase 2) brought
together a wide range of speakers, participants, and project partners with a focus on the specific
questions listed below. The following is a summary of the presentations and discussions held in
Dec. 6, 2007 in Alert Bay, BC. To facilitate youth participation in the project, a student
workshop was also held on January 29th, 2008 in Alert Bay (see Appendix B for details). Copies
of full presentations are available at: www.sfu.ca/coastalstudies/uncertainfutures.htm.
Workshop Purpose
This workshop (Phase 2 of the project) examined the barriers and opportunities for adaptation,
including the incorporation of potential climate change impacts and adaptation to climate change
into existing community planning efforts. The workshop was divided into two sessions, Session
A and Session B, which addressed the following specific questions.
Session A: Introduction, climate change implications and existing community plans
- What existing community plans are in place?
- In what ways are these plans sensitive to climate change?
- How does the community take adaptation to climate change and other stressors into
account in planning?
Session B: Feedback on adaptation strategies and moving towards implementation
- Do existing plans adequately address relevant climate change issues?
- Are there suggestions for addressing issues raised in the morning session?
- What are the barriers to implementation that exist and how might they be overcome?
- What lessons can be shared from the Alert Bay experience with other communities?
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Background
The community of Alert Bay is located on Cormorant Island on the North-eastern shores of
Vancouver Island in the Broughton Archipelago/Queen Charlotte Strait. A regularly scheduled
passenger ferry reaches Cormorant Island from the community of Port McNeill (population of
2821). Campbell River is the closest major center, 200 km South of Port McNeill along Highway
19. Cormorant Island is approximately 4.8 km long and 0.8 km wide, with a total population of
approximately 1500 people, two-thirds of which identify themselves as being Aboriginal1.
Cormorant Island lies within the traditional territory of the ‘Namgis First Nation, one of 17
remaining Kwak’wala speaking Nations. The Island is occupied by the municipality of the
Village of Alert Bay, a small unincorporated area (Sandyville), and three reserves belonging to
the ‘Namgis First Nation (IR1, IR1A, and IR2). There is also Whe-La-La-U, a 12 acre parcel of
land set aside by the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs as a home to people from
surrounding Kwakwaka'wakw First Nations1. The municipality of the Village of Alert Bay is part
of the Mount Waddington Regional District, otherwise known as “the North Island”, which
encompasses the top third of Vancouver Island from north of Sayward to Port Hardy, the adjacent
mainland area and islands in between 2. Historically, natural resources have been the primary
source of economic activity for the region. Resource activities include fishing, forestry,
aquaculture, mining and tourism. All of these resource activities are subject to the effects of
human induced climate change.
Structure of Workshop
The workshop titled Moving Toward Implementation: Climate Change Adaptation and
Community Planning in Alert Bay, was held on December 6th, 2007 at the Inner Coast Natural
Resource Centre from 9 am to 5 pm. The workshop began with a welcome from ‘Namgis First
Nation Chief William Cranmer and Village of Alert Bay Mayor John Rowell and an opening
prayer by Elder, Paggy Svanvkik. Researchers Mike Brklacich and Kelly Vodden provided a
project overview, workshop introduction, and results from the 2006 Adapting to Uncertain
Futures Workshop (Phase I). This workshop (Phase 2), entailed
two sessions, Session A and Session B. In each session, a series
of speakers aimed to address the specific questions listed
above within their presentations. Participants were encouraged
to discuss the topics covered and respond to the specific questions
posed after each series of presentations and in an end of the day
roundtable discussion.
Facilitator: Annemarie Koch
1
Adapting to Uncertain Futures: Alert Bay Community Background Report – September 2006 Draft Report
Ministry of Forests (MOF). 1999. Port McNeill Forest District – Profile. Government of BC,
Victoria. www.for.gov.bc.ca.
2
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Session A: Overview
Presenters for Session A:
Chief William Cranmer
Mayor John Rowell
Neil Smith
Kelly Vodden
Patricia Gallaugher
Doug Aberley
Tasha Sutcliffe
Nicole Javier
Chuck Lok
Ben Kangasniemi
Mike Brklacich
‘Namgis First Nation
Village of Alert Bay
Mount Waddington Regional District, Economic Development
Department of Geography, Memorial University
Centre for Coastal Studies, Simon Fraser University
‘Namgis Treaty and Natural Resources
Ecotrust Canada, Community Economic Development
Alert Bay Advisory Planning Commission
Alert Bay and Regional Emergency Planning
Ministry of Environment
Carleton University
What existing community plans are in place?
Nine community and regional plans that directly apply to the ‘Namgis First Nation and/or the
Village of Alert Bay were discussed during the workshop (see Table 1). Four additional
provincial and federally-led plans were identified that relate to land and coastal resources use
within ‘Namgis First Nation traditional territory including: the Commission on Resources and the
Environment (CORE)/Land Use Plan (completed 2000), Central Coast Land and Coastal
Resource Management Plan (completed 2006), North Island Straits (2002), and Central and North
Coast Integrated Management planning (2002 – present). These “upper level” plans were not
addressed during this workshop.
Table 1: Nine regional and community plans applying to the Village of Alert Bay and/or ‘Namgis First
Nation traditional territory discussed during the workshop.
Plan Scale
Plan Name
Planning Body
Stage
Regional
Regional Coastal Planning
Regional District
Preliminary
Regional
Regional
Regional
Regional
Community
Community
Regional/
Community
Community
Alert Bay and Regional Emergency
Plan
‘Namgis Territorial Plan
‘Namgis Watershed Plans (8)
Language and Cultural Preservation
and Development
Special Project Plans (Hanson Island,
Cormorant Island)
Community Plans (‘Yalis/Alert Bay,
Chesalakees)
Economic Development Plans
(comprehensive, sectoral, project
feasibility planning)
Alert Bay Official Community Plan
5
Alert Bay and Regional
Emergency Planning
‘Namgis First Nation
‘Namgis First Nation
U’mista Cultural Centre
Complete
‘Namgis First Nation
Ongoing
‘Namgis First Nation
Ongoing
‘Namgis First Nation
Ongoing
Alert Bay Advisory Planning
Commission
Final Draft
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
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In what ways are these plans sensitive to climate change?
Based on comments from participants, the plans listed in Table 1 are sensitive to climate change
at two levels. First, direct impacts of climate change on local resources and the economy have
been observed and are expected to continue in the future. Second, future impacts of climate
change on local resources and the economy are anticipated but highly uncertain, making planning
difficult.
There was consensus within the
community that the impacts of climate
change have already been observed. The
‘Namgis commercial fleet has decreased
by 75% since the mind 1980s, due to
fisheries policies and declining fish
stocks. Department of Fisheries and
Oceans representative Kim Hyatt
suggested that this could be in part due
to a changing climate, stating that
salmon are particularly sensitive to
climate effects. Other vulnerabilities to
climate change discussed included
negative impacts on fisheries, tourism,
forestry, water, and marine
infrastructure. Sea level rise was discussed, with participants having different opinions on the level of
concern for the future. Some participants felt that local sea level rise is being noticed, particularity
along the boardwalk. However, Ben Kangasniemi, from the Ministry of Environment, presented that
forecasts to 2100 suggest that sea level will not change significantly for the section of coast
surrounding Alert Bay. The geological explanation is that the region is experiencing “uplift”, as the
Juan de Fuca plate pushes into and the North American plate, causing some regions to rise. It is this
lifting of the actual land under and around Alert Bay that is expected to counter sea level rise.
Potential positive impacts discussed included: less need for heating, more tourism, better sewage
treatment, and potentially new species with economic or ecosystem value. Critical areas of sensitivity
to climate change described by participants include; salmon and other fisheries, forestry, other
economic development projects such as run of river hydro, aggregate mining, infrastructure, disaster
response, and related social/cultural issues (see Appendix A).
Potential impacts of climate change have already affected the planning for local projects. For
example, representatives observed potential climate change impacts on a sand and gravel project
(quarry) as water levels were lower than expected in 2007. As a result, there has been an increase
in project cost, as water is needed in the processing of quarried materials. The potential impact of
climate change on local hydrology, especially reduced stream flows, will possibly affect two
hydro projects planned by the ‘Namgis First Nation. Both hydro projects have the potential of
bringing high revenues to the community, but this is dependent in part on annual stream flow.
Another example of a potential impact of climate change on economic development was the
decision by the ‘Namgis First Nation not to purchase a sawmill in Port McNeill, in part due to the
potential effects of climate change on the size and types of trees that may be available in the
future for harvest (among other factors).
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General Comments:
“We might have to shut down (Hydro) operations during low flow periods to maintain water
flows for fish.” - On the impacts of climate change on two planned hydro projects.
“We must structure business plans so that impacts of climate change are considered globally.
Impacts in California may affect business in our region.” - On the impacts of climate change on
the economy.
A Ministry of Environment representative presented the most current forecasts for climate change
that apply to the region. Long-term average forecasts for the North Island region include an
increase in overall precipitation with less snow, an increase in overall stream-flow with more
seasonal variation, an increase in extreme rainfall events, and an air temperature increase of 2-3
degrees (between 2042-2070) resulting in a warming in winter. All of these factors make local
plans sensitive to climate change. Climate change is also affecting the needs of regional
emergency planning. For example, extreme fire events are becoming more frequent in British
Columbia, in part due to a changing climate. There is now a need to plan for more extreme
weather events such as flood, fire, storm surge, insect infestation, and disease.
General Comments:
“Without planning, development pressure may force through projects.” - On the need for local
planning to ensure projects are built properly to handle future changes in climate.
“Planning now will give future tools to ensure future developments are done right.” - On the
need for planning that provides tools such as local bylaws.
How does the community take adaptation to climate change and other stressors into
account in planning?
The following section reviews the nine plans listed in Table 1 to assess how each plan addresses
adaptation to climate change and other stressors facing the community. Stressors associated with
climate change discussed at the workshop most commonly involve natural resources with
economic value. The most common non-climate change stressors discussed include local
economic activity, loss of culture and language, overexploitation of fish resources, and the
potential impacts of fish farms on wild salmon.
Regional Coastal Planning (Early Development Stages)
A Mt. Waddington Regional District representative stated that their coastal planning efforts are in
the early development stages. Participants focused on community-led planning and did not
discuss other provincial or federally driven regional coastal plans.
Emergency Planning
In the past three years, several emergency planning activities have been completed within the
region. Some of this planning has attempted to account for more extreme weather events and an
overall changing climate. These planning activities have included the development of a Regional
Emergency Plan, as well as the Emergency Management Agreement (EMA). The EMA is an
agreement described by Chuck Lok as “a comprehensive mutual aid agreement to share staff and
resources between all five local governments and seven of nine First Nations”. All municipal
plans were also updated to the British Columbia Emergency Response Management System
(BCEMRS). Two First Nations communities, including the ‘Namgis First Nation, also have
emergency plans. In addition to the above plans, all Hazard Response Plans have been updated
and two functioning Emergency Social Service Teams were created with two more under
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development. The purpose of these planning efforts is to provide a comprehensive management
system that ensures a coordinated and organized response and recovery to all emergency
incidents and disasters. These plans provide the framework for a standardized emergency
response in British Columbia. The overall goal is to enhance public safety and reduce property
and economic loss from actual or imminent emergencies or disasters.
Alert Bay Official Community Plan (Draft Phase)
In 2006, the Advisory Planning Commission (APC) was asked to develop a new OCP to replace
the ten year old OCP of 1996. The APC has relied on the cooperation of volunteers, adopting a
learning-by-doing approach to planning. Several participants praised the hard work and highlevel work of the APC, stating that they have made excellent progress. Climate change
mitigation-strategies within the OCP include consideration of concepts of “smart growth” and
“green buildings”. One of the primary barriers to the APC in planning is a firm understanding of
what to plan for in terms of climate change, highlighting a strong need for locally relevant
information.
‘Namgis Territorial Plan
The ‘Namgis First Nation’s overall plan for their territory includes plans at multiple scales
including the following eight ‘Namgis Watershed Plans, Special Project Plans (Hanson Island,
Cormorant Island), Community Plans (‘Yalis/Alert Bay, Chesalakees) and Marine Stewardship
and Kwkwaka’wakw Sea Plans.
The ‘Namgis First Nation representative, Doug Aberley, stated in his presentation that the
‘Namgis have a progressive and well-managed government and are confident that capacity exists
to mitigate the impacts of climate change (For ‘Namgis First Nation governance structure see
Appendix C). The ‘Namgis have been engaging with academic, government and other partners to
ensure that they have the best available information and are engaged in “active learning”. They
have started several research and monitoring programs, with a particular focus on collecting
fisheries data by two full-time observers working in the summers. Other programs include clam
beach surveys and paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) monitoring, done to ensure that shellfish
are safe for harvest. ‘Namgis First Nation watershed planning efforts include fisheries and habitat
restoration plans undertaken by the Nimpkish Resource Management Board, co-chaired by
‘Namgis First Nation.
‘Namgis Community Economic Development Plans
The ‘Namgis First Nation have several community economic development plans that take
adaptation to climate change and other stresses into account. Doug Aberley, a ‘Namgis First
Nation representative, presented on the current infrastructure plans for a new boardwalk, netloft,
fuelling station, floating breakwater, and other harbour improvements totalling $8.5 million in
investment. For the ‘Namgis First Nation sustainable economic development is centered on
fisheries, tourism, forestry, mining, energy, agriculture, and commercial activities.
‘Namgis Fisheries Economic Development Plan
The ‘Namgis First Nation have completed a community economic development plan for
commercial fishing. Addressing climate change and other stressors was one of the primary
objectives of the plan. The aim of the planning project was to maximize the ‘Namgis fishery
potential by taking into account stressors such as overexploitation of species, market volatility,
and potential impacts of climate change on marine ecosystem structure and function. A decision
matrix was used to create a robust and sustainable economic development plan that provides
maximum benefit for the ‘Namgis commercial fishery, while insuring sustainable fish stocks.
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The three criteria used in the process were stock abundance and health, economic viability of
boat, and minimizing risks and vulnerabilities. An important element of the planning was to
consider diversifying the fishery to ensure that it will be robust to the changes in species
composition that are expected in the future.
‘Namgis Language and Cultural Preservation and Development Plans
The ‘Namgis First Nation, together with other Kwakwaka’wakw Nations, have plans for
preservation of their culture and language. Loss of language and culture is one of the many
stressors facing the ‘Namgis First Nation. The U’mista Cultural Centre and the T’sasala Cultural
Group provide examples of planning for
language and cultural preservation.
Summary of Plans
The above review, of six of the nine plans
listed in table 1 make it clear that the potential
impacts of a changing climate are
accompanied by many other stressors in the
community. These include a need for
economic development, loss of culture and
language, overexploitation of fish resources,
and the potential impacts of fish farms on wild
salmon. The Alert Bay OCP and ‘Namgis
plans incorporate many of these stressors with climate change being an overriding and uncertain
issue.
‘Namgis First Nation plans for two hydroelectric developments and a sand and gravel project
have provided examples of planning for the potential impacts of climate change. The proposed
hydro projects must now consider the potential for lower than expected flows in the summer, that
may have an impact on salmon habitat, possibly resulting in less revenue from the project. It was
noted that changes to the Orca Sand & Gravel project have been implemented to address the
lower than expected water levels observed in 2007.
Common Planning Issues and Constraints
The following is a summary of the common issues that were evident from group discussion.
Issues pertain to the development and/or the application of planning for climate change.
1. Uncertainty
Uncertainty around the true future impacts of climate change, particularly local impacts, was a
common issue for all of those involved in planning. Local planners mentioned this as being an
obstacle for creating plans that will be used well into the future. Examples include uncertainty
around stream flows for hydro developments, set-backs for storm surges, future fish stock
abundances and marine ecosystem structure and function, and changes in distant markets (i.e.
changes in gravel prices or demand due to circumstances such as urban growth or wild fires in
California).
“Species such as the polar bear may go extinct. What happens of local species go extinct?” On
the uncertainly around the impacts of climate change on local species.
“We need to have a better understanding of what it is we are planning for...” On the challenges
of planning for an uncertain future.
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2. Lack of local relevant information
A lack of locally relevant information on the future impacts of climate change was also raised as
a common barrier to incorporating climate change into planning processes. Forecasts of the
potential impacts of climate change are generally at the regional scale (or broader). Presentations
from the Ministry of Environment and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans presented
forecasts of impacts on the regional (North Island) scale. The uncertainty associated with these
forecasts increases as these data are extrapolated from a regional to a local scale.
“We are lacking locally relevant information on climate change needed for planning.” On the
challenges of planning with locally relevant information about the future impacts of climate change.
3. Lack of resources for planning
The majority of the groups involved in planning stated that financial and human resources are a
limiting factor on the amount of planning that can be completed. For example, the Advisory
Planning Commission for Alert Bay is a volunteer group of five members. The ‘Namgis First
Nation also complete their own planning largely without external assistance.
“One of our challenges is that the resources needed for developing a holistic plan are lacking.” - On
having limited resources to engage in holistic planning for the Alert Bay OCP.
4. Decline of fish stocks and fish farming
Other commonly raised issues included concerns about declining fish stocks and fish farming
practices. Most community members appeared to be against fish farming largely due to issues
with sea lice and salmon farms in the Broughton Archipelago.
“This past year was the first year that chum salmon have not returned to spawn in the Nimpkish
River .”
“The ‘Namgis commercial fishing fleet has decreased by 75%.”
“We are concerned over the impact of climate change and fish farming on the wild salmon.”
Session B: Overview
Presenters for Session B:
Holly Monaghan
Kim Hyatt
Ed Jackson
Coastal Engineer, Westmar Engineering
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Registered Professional Forester
In addition to the three presentations that occurred during Session B an open group discussion
was held where any of the participants could ask questions or make comments. This open
discussion was guided by the four questions associated with Session B and the responses are
discussed below.
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Do existing plans adequately address relevant climate change issues?
There was a strong consensus from participants that the planning work to date has been positive
and that a strong foundation of partnership and cooperation has been laid. The community was
encouraged to continue to progress in this direction, and to continue to re-evaluate and improve
plans to suit changing conditions. While all participants were impressed with the level of action,
commitment, and cooperation demonstrated by the community, there were many issues and
challenges raised that indicate that there is further work to be undertaken.
Addressing climate change through planning and adaptation is exceptionally complex and thus it
was commented that while the existing plans are attempting to address the issue, there are many
additional complexities, such as “soft infrastructure” (e.g. information systems) and other
interrelated planning issues at a local and regional level that need to be addressed.
General Comments:
“Climate Change is not a separate problem – it is interconnected with everything else…”
Suggestions for addressing issues raised in the morning session?
Four common issues were cited from Session A: uncertainty, lack of information, lack of resources,
and decreasing fish stocks. Lack of information and uncertainty was addressed in the afternoon
session. Additional solutions were also raised and will be discussed below.
Uncertainty and Lack of Information
The lack of specific information and uncertainty surrounding climate change and its impact on
communities was cited consistently throughout the workshop. In order for planning to take place,
participants felt that adequate, locally-relevant information must be provided. “Information” in
this case covers multiple aspects, ranging from access to climate data to training and education
(e.g. emergency response training). There is also the aspect of information where people have
access to outdated or incorrect sources of information, which is hampering the planning and
adaptation process. In cases such as these, replacing outdated ideas and thoughts and incorrect
information through community education and outreach was thought to be an essential step. It
was however mentioned that, especially in the case of climate change, waiting for concrete
information and predictions can be seen as foolish, as there is little likelihood that much of this
information will be available in the foreseeable future.
General Comments:
“Help people make the right decisions...” - On providing people with the information necessary
to do planning that includes climate change.
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Additional Solutions
Many solutions directed at addressing climate change through making the community more
sustainable and taking a more proactive stance with respect to climate change were raised (see
Appendix A). It was mentioned that if the island was able to make itself a living example as a
model for sustainability, planning, and adaptation, that it would not only help other communities
by providing a case study, but could also have the potential to attract people and investments to
the community. Many specific ideas were raised, including: replacing the vehicles on the island
with electric/hybrid ones, installing a biofuel station at the fuel dock, agriculture development,
and establishing one day per week where community members must use a method of alternative
transportation. Development of renewable energy technology and community energy planning
were also discussed, albeit with a certain level of reservation regarding potential environmental
issues associated with renewable energy technology. Impacts of wind farms on migratory birds
and the impacts of hydropower on fish were cited as two key concerns. It was mentioned that
limiting wind power development to one per community may be one way to avoid issues
commonly associated with larger wind farms. The Village of Alert Bay is currently participating
in BC Hydro’s provincial energy challenge to decrease energy use.
Including climate change in all types of planning was stressed. Reviving the Historic Alert Bay
Development Corporation was one specific idea for a group that could help guide the community
in addressing these issues, potentially through the development of local guidelines and bylaws. In
terms of the physical development of the community, speaker Holly Monaghan articulated the
need for advanced coastal planning, with new building zones, permits, and codes in mind to
prevent potential development issues in the future. Alternative shoreline development techniques
such as raising the height of sea dykes were also suggested, with examples from Lulu Island,
Richmond, BC. Other
techniques suggested
include habitat beaches,
eco-pockets, and rubblemound breakwaters and
shore protection.
Within the fishing industry,
diversification, development
of aquaculture, and new
adaptive management
techniques were suggested
as possible adaptations or
solutions. Ed Jackson, an
RPF with the ‘Namgis First
Nation, suggestions included switching to southern tree species for planting, and maintaining
forests as reserves for carbon credits as opposed to logging. Additional details on adaptations and
solutions are detailed in Appendix A.
Continuing to build the Alert Bay community “toolkit” was noted as an important aspect of
addressing issues, as increased community capacity will help the community adapt to future
challenges. The idea of formalizing this “toolkit” was addressed; to not only help Alert Bay, but
to be shared with other communities, who could also add their own tools and strategies.
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What are the barriers for implementation that exist and how might they be overcome?
Barriers to the implementation of many of the solutions discussed include a lack of resources,
uncertainty, risk, a lack of locally relevant information and ignorance of the issues. It is difficult
to introduce significant changes in a community when its members do have adequate information
to understand the driving factors behind the changes. The uncertainty behind climate change is a
unique barrier in itself, as available information is complex and changing, and there is no
certainty in knowledge of what will happen in the future (e.g. predictive models are not
necessarily reliable). Another barrier is communication of the issues, given that they are complex
and uncertain. A participant mentioned that some community members did not attend the
workshop because they were not sure how they could contribute to the discussion that was
perceived as being for experts only. There was a clear indication that further education and
community outreach on the part of scientists, academics, organizers and partners would help
address these issues. As a result, the organizers of this report developed and delivered a
workshop to elementary students in Alert Bay on January 29th, 2008 (see Appendix B).
Community members were also encouraged to attend these workshops and to provide feedback
on a draft of this report.
While there is a large amount of support at the community level, there are barriers at the regional,
provincial, and federal levels. These barriers need to be addressed through increased
intergovernmental communication and cooperation. Examples of organizations and agencies that
could benefit from increased communication and cooperation include NFN, DFO, and the
Ministry of Forests and Range. Other examples are shown in Appendix A.
The speaker representing the Alert Bay Planning Committee cited limited resources and volunteer
members as being potential barriers to the process, not only in terms of creating the plan, but also
in the implementation and enforcement aspects of the plan (e.g. bylaws). Enforcement of bylaws
was discussed as a key barrier for small communities, such as Alert Bay, due to the lack of
financial resources. The use of bylaws was seen as not being as efficient as having a robust
official community plan that has the capacity to adapt as changes occur. The creation of an
Official Community Plan involves a long process that requires a great deal of commitment and
experience. The planning committee for the Village of Alert Bay used two different plan
templates throughout their design phase, and, in the end, modified a plan from Ucluelet, a coastal
community on the West Coast of Vancouver Island, to create a template that suited the needs of
the community.
In terms of infrastructure planning and development, lack of adequate long-term data, lack of
input, old school attitudes, and untested design options were listed as barriers. Lack of
information was again noted as being a part of the overall issue. Potential methods of addressing
these issues included further studies of climate change impacts on coastal zones, further coastal
engineering studies, and increased coastal planning activities.
General Comments:
“We don’t know what we are dealing with – can’t enact prescription regulations based on
something like Jell-O out of a mould.” - On the importance of customizing the planning process
to suit the community.
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What lessons can be shared from the Alert Bay experience with other communities?
The achievements of the Alert Bay experience provide an excellent example of the importance of
both participation and planning for other communities.
In terms of participation, Alert Bay clearly demonstrates that active participation on the part of
the community is key in this type of initiative. Communication, cooperation, and participation in
partnerships further strengthen community capacity. Alert Bay also makes the case that
participation outside the community and regional level is also necessary. Their participation in
dialogues such as this workshop and other initiatives such as the provincial energy challenge
indicates that the community is looking to all levels of government and other partners for ideas
and initiatives.
In terms of planning, the importance of customizing community plans is clear. While the Village
of Alert Bay used two separate templates to develop their community plan, one provided by a
consultant and a second from another community, their effort in customizing a plan to suit the
specific needs of the community demonstrates how specific community values and needs were
emphasised in the process. Both their commitment to a bottom-up, community-involved process
and their successes to date provide an example of a model process that other communities can
follow and learn from.
In terms of this study, an important comment made by a representative from the ‘Namgis First
Nation was that the ‘Namgis community often feel uncomfortable attending these types of
workshops due to the technical nature of material discussed and the feeling that these events are
intended for “experts”. A suggestion was made that a subsequent meeting could be held on
reserve with local First Nations presenters, basic information, and smaller groups. Another
participant suggested that the information and ideas discussed at the workshop be brought to local
schools.
General Comments:
“Not every framework will work every time...” - On the importance of customizing the
community approach.
“It starts here, builds here – wake up and pay attention – plans are built from the ground up...” On the important of community involvement, partnerships, and cooperation.
“ ‘Namgis planning (bioregional mapping) is revolutionary...” - On the exemplary example set
by the ‘Namgis people.
Conclusions
On all accounts, the 2007 Alert Bay workshop was a success, bringing together many participants
and project partners within the community. Results of Phase 1 of the Adapting to Uncertain
Futures project were reviewed, including the key strengths of the community and its
vulnerabilities. Questions to be addressed by Phase 2 were sectioned into two sessions: Session
A: Introduction, climate change implications, and existing community plans, and Session B:
Feedback on adaptation strategies and moving towards implementation.
The workshop provided an excellent forum for the community to demonstrate the details of their
planning progress to date, to receive new information and feedback from other partners and
experts and reinforce their commitment to incorporating climate change considerations into
community planning and development.
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General Comments:
Mayor, Village of Alert Bay:
“I really enjoyed the workshop on Climate Change and the exchange of ideas. To have such a
wealth of knowledge and experience in our small community means a lot to us and we were proud
to host such an event. The information will be of great value to us as we finish updating our
Community Plan. One immediate outcome of the workshop is that our Emergency Plan is now
posted on our website. We are also talking about electric vehicles and public transportation only
days. Thanks for your continued interest in our little island paradise.”
Councilor, Village of Alert Bay:
“Thank you and the ‘team’ for bringing us Part 2 – ‘Implementation Strategies’ of the Adaptation
to Climate Change in Alert Bay dialogue. The various speakers brought further richness to our
understanding of climate change and our ability to incorporate appropriate strategies into local
planning for the future... Thank you again for helping us plan for the future of the place we call
home – this was an important next step.”
Community resident:
“I don't know if all of us in small communities quite understand how challenging it can be for
universities to share the benefits of their research at the community level, but I want to show my
appreciation and support for your ongoing efforts at SFU to do precisely this. It may not be
immediately apparent, but the sharing of information at this two day session and the ongoing
building of trust between the researchers who represent the university and the individuals and
organizations that represent the community will be critical parts of the path to fostering
sustainable rural development.”
Nicole Javier, Chair, Alert Bay Advisory Planning Commission:
“It was suggested that the Hupacasath First Nation and the community of Port Alberni provide
an excellent example of possibility and benefits that come from regional cooperation in planning,
which will become increasingly important as the effects of climate change increase. Hupacasath
and Port Alberni have collaborated on a green energy project that will provide a significant
source of local green energy to the region”.
“Never doubt that a small, group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed,
it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
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Appendix A: Summary Table
Issues Raised in the Workshop, Solutions, Barriers and Agencies Responsible
Abbreviations:
NFN - ‘Namgis First Nation
DFO – Department of Fisheries and Oceans
PSP – Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning
AB – Alert Bay
Issue
Salmon/fisheries
Ocean conditions:
change in species,
predators
Aquaculture
Ecosystem change
Forestry
Hemlock Looper: pest
danger to forestry
Climate impact on
Red Cedars
Increased forest fire
risk
Changes to forestry
impact hydrology,
wildlife, fish
Economic
development
More than 75% loss in
‘Namgis FN fisheries
and shore-based jobs
Impacted by changes
elsewhere, such as in
California (fire)
Adaptation/Solution
Diversify at multiple levels
Marine stewardship: guardians /
monitoring
PSP testing
Planning research, adaptive
management
Kwakwaka’wakw Sea
Sustainable aquaculture practices
and fishing methods
Move to dry land or out
Barrier
Erosion of information/
management capacity
Plant foreign (California) tree
species
Decrease in predictive ability
Agency
NFN
DFO
Decrease in predictive ability
despite increase in information
Conflict – need to work
collaboratively
Use forests as carbon credits or
visual quality areas instead of
logging
BC Registered Professional
Foresters
Atli Resources (NFN)
Ministry of Forest and Range
Watershed level planning that
includes forestry
Goal: diverse, stable, sustainable
economy
- Basket of fish approach: $30
million fleet, 10 gillnet, 5 seine –
60 jobs, 15 species, 117 licenses
- 100+ economic development
opportunities identified
- Fish smoking
- Marine fuel
- Convenience store
- Tourism
- Energy: small hydro potential
($120 mill)
- Mining - OS&G – expanded
capacity to store water
- Decision to build new sawmill
instead of
purchasing/refurbishing old**
related to anticipated changes in
16
Will take time, investment and
capacity
NFN
Orca Sand and Gravel
Water flow?
Joint venture partners
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Being more proactive
“putting on the brake
vs. arguing over seats”
Infrastructure
Disaster response
Natural, humancaused, disease
growth and species composition
as well as resource depletion and
outdated technology
- Ongoing integrated economic
development planning
- Seek redress for damages
- Training and education
- Fisheries planning, decision
tool, historic, current and future
conditions - stocks, prices and
costs, provision for new fisheries
- Relationships, policies and
programs
- Decrease exposure to risk
while max. Opportunity
Leadership
Outreach
Active learning
Partnerships
Purposeful consideration in
planning
Sharing knowledge and
information
LEED
Smart growth
Green Shores
Preserve natural processes
Budget/plane for climate change
Boardwalk, netloft, seawall
increase
Funding secured: $761 000 +
$250 000 NFN + $343 000
Village
Breakwater
Marine service centre
Anticipatory planning
Limited resources
Limited knowledge
High level information (Village)
Access to green building
materials
Village of AB + NFN
(education, health, planning
etc.)
Village of Alert Bay
-AB Planning Commission
-Non-voting council
-5 member rep
-Planner 2004 – spring
-OCP 2006 (old 1996)
Info from province, RD
Village of AB (boardwalk
project) + NFN
Locally relevant information
Lack of information / uncertain
information
Responsibility lies with local
government: RD,
municipalities, FNs
Resource availability
Interdependence,
ripple effects
Social/Cultural Issues
Communication and involvement
NFN
Language, culture,
health, youth
Continued community
involvement
Village of Alert Bay
Education
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Appendix B: Elementary School Workshop
January 29, 2008
Inner Coast Natural Resource Centre
Presenter: Nygil Goggins, Simon Fraser University
Community Liaison: Mike Berry, Alby Systems Ltd., Alert Bay Marine Research Laboratory
Society
Teachers: Roberta Harris, Alert Bay Elementary School
Chris Kalnay, T'lisalagi'lakw ('Namgis) Elementary School
During the Uncertain Futures Workshop
held in Alert Bay on December 6th, 2007, a
suggestion was made that more youth
involvement would be beneficial to both the
project and the community. As a result, a
school workshop was organized in Alert Bay
on Tuesday January 29th, 2008. The
following is a summary of the two-hour
workshop presented by Nygil Goggins, held
at the Inner Coast Natural Resource Centre
(ICNRC). The 26 students attending were
in grades four to seven at the T’lisalagi’lakw
(‘Namgis) Elementary, and Alert Bay
Elementary Schools.
“Climate change is caused by burning fossil
fuels”- Student response to questions about
the causes of climate change.
“Oil, coal, and natural gas” - Student
response to questions about the main types
of fossil fuels.
In the first session, an interactive
presentation was given on climate change
science, potential impacts of climate change
(past/future), and the Uncertain Futures
workshop.
To review climate change
science, a presentation provided the basics
on the greenhouse effect, greenhouse gases
(types/sources), climate change and its
potential impacts. The purpose of this was
to establish a clear relationship between
burning fossil fuels, which causes a change
in climate, which in turn affect the
environment and humans.
Students
demonstrated a firm understanding of the
concepts and eagerly answered questions
and provided examples. It was clear that
students had studied these subjects before, at
either school or home.
Both teachers
confirmed that they use every opportunity
possible to teach students about how humans
affect the natural environment.
There were two broad goals associated with
the school workshop. The first was to
convey information to the students about
climate change science, climate change
impacts, and the main findings of the
Uncertain Futures workshop. The second
goal was to engage in a discussion about
climate change with the students to get their
feedback on impacts and possible solutions
to climate change in Alert Bay. The morning
was divided into two one-hour sessions with
a fifteen minute break between.
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“Polar bears are dying” - Student response
to questions about climate change affects on
animals.
“Burn wood to heat your house” Suggestion
for solutions to greenhouse gases from home
heating.
“We should walk or ride our bikes”
Suggestion for solutions to greenhouse gases
caused from driving.
“Recycle and compost your garbage”
Suggestion for solutions to greenhouse gases
from garbage.
In the second session, students participated
in two interactive activities that focused on
getting their feedback on local impacts and
possible solutions to climate change. To
begin, the findings of the Uncertain Futures
workshop were reviewed to inform students
that members of the community were
working hard to find solutions and
adaptation strategies for the negative
impacts of climate change.
The next
exercise was a “solutions to climate change
brainstorming activity”, where students
suggested ideas for preventing climate
change. From the previous session, students
were aware of ways that individuals can
contribute to climate change.
Student
suggestions for solutions focused on
transportation, space heating, lighting, hot
water, and garbage. The final activity
involved students taking time to draw or
write stories about the material that was
discussed in the two sessions.
“Take shorter showers” Suggestion for
solutions to greenhouse gases from using hot
water.
Overall, the workshop was successful and
received positive feedback from the students
and teachers, building upon the previous
success of the Uncertain Futures workshop.
A complete summary of the student
workshop will be made available in the form
of an information booklet for the schools in
Alert Bay. The booklet will include a
summary of the main points discussed
during the workshop, and the ideas shared
by students. It will also include information
on local observations on climate change
impacts, previously shared by community
members. This booklet will have a strong
focus in pictures and diagrams, and will
incorporate the drawings and stories form
the student workshop. It is hoped that the
booklet will be a valuable educational
resource for the schools and community.
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Appendix C: Workshop Participants List
Doug Aberley
Director, 'Namgis First
Nation Land and Resource
Office
Harry Alfred
'Namgis First Nation Land
& Resource Office
Michael Berry
Councillor, Village of
Alert Bay and President,
Alby Systems Ltd
Wally Brant
concerned citizen
Alert Bay
Sarah Breen
Masters Candidate
Geography
Memorial University of
Newfoundland
Mike Brklacich Professor
Geography
Carleton University
Alfred Coon
Fisheries Technician DMT
Fisheries Society
Chief Bill Cranmer
'Namgis First Nation
Dawn Cranmer
Gwaii Forest Creations &
'Namgis First Nation
Denise Cranmer
Learning Assistant
Tlisalagilakw Secondary
Program
Nic Dedeluk
Straitwatch Coodinator
Cetus Research and
Conservation Society
Susan Jirik
Malcolm Island
Community Forest
Corporation
Inge Doskeland Planner,
Hordaland County
Council, Norway
Ben Kangasniemi
Climate Change Section
BC Ministry of
Environment
Patricia Gallaugher
Director, Continuing
Studies in Science and
Centre for Coastal Studies
Simon Fraser University
Kelly Gesner Consultant,
Landwork Consultants Inc.
Nygil Goggins
Masters Candidate
Resource and
Environmental
Management, SFU
Roy Hinder
'Namgis First Nation
Aquatic Resources, NFN
Kim Hyatt
Research Scientist Salmon
Assessment and
Freshwater Ecosystems,
Fisheries and Oceans
Canada
Ed Jackson
Register Professional
Forester
'Namgis First Nation
Nicole Javier
Chair, Alert Bay Advisory
Planning Commission
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Annemarie Koch
concerned citizen, Sointula
Nicole Koshure
Masters Candidate
Resource and
Environmental
Management, SFU
Gerard LeBlanc
Landwork Consultants
Chuck Lok
Alert Bay and Regional
Emergency Planning
Regional District of Mount
Waddington
Mona Madill
'Namgis Fisheries Office
Assistant
'Namgis First Nation
Madeline McDonald
Chief Administrative
Officer
Village of Alert Bay
Holly Monaghan
Engineer
Westmar Consultants
Robert Mountain
Manager, Operations
Musgamagw Tsawtaineuk
Tribal Council
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Monique Nelson
Indian and Northern
Affairs Canada
Christine O'Donnell
concerned citizen
Alert Bay
Robyn Quirk
concerned citizen
Alert Bay
Tasha Sutcliffe
Fisheries Manager,
Community Economic
Development Program,
Ecotrust Canada
Peggy Svanvik
Elder
'Namgis First Nation
Savannah Ranville
Continuing Education
Student, Tlisalagilakw
Kelly Vodden
Assistant Professor,
Geography, Memorial
University of
Newfoundland
John Rowell
Mayor
Village of Alert Bay
Brian Wadhams
'Namgis Councillor &
Musgamagw Tsawtaineuk
Tribal Council
Doug Sandilands
Cetus Research and
Conservation Society
Kali-Olt Sedgemore
Continuing Education
Student, Tlisalagilakw
Hayley Shephard
Ocean Maid Adventures
Neil Smith
Manager, Economic
Development, Regional
District of Mount
Waddington
Ethel Speck
Office Manager
Musgamagw Tsawtaineuk
Tribal Council
Alvin Stevens
Continuing Education
Student, Tlisalagilakw
Dale Yamada
Commercial
Fisher/Fishlosopher
Shannon Whonnock
PEP Cormorant Island
Coordinator
'Namgis First Nation
Colin Wishart
Senior Planner
Planning and Development
Service
The Highland Council of
Scotland
Laurie Wood
Coordinator, Centre for
Coastal Studies &
Continuing Studies in
Science, Simon Fraser
University
Maureen Woodrow
Executive Director,
Oceans Management
Research Network, &
Geography, Carleton
University
Maureen Wright
Educator, Alert Bay
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