Projecting Impacts of Resource Extraction on Wildlife Habitat in the Greater Chilkat Watershed, Alaska

The Greater Chilkat Watershed (GCW) in Southeast Alaska is a unique, working landscape threatened by large-scale mining and logging projects. Our research investigates the effects of these activities on the habitats of three charismatic species – Pacific salmon, mountain goats, and brown bears – all of which are important for the people and ecosystems of the GCW. Through the use of hotspot and habitat connectivity analyses, we identify critical areas for conservation prioritization within the watershed. Additionally, we explore the economic feasibility of a carbon credit program as an alternative to timber harvest for two local land managers, the Haines State Forest and University of Alaska, by analyzing carbon sequestration in the region. Ultimately, our work will guide the advocacy and conservation efforts of Lynn Canal Conservation to protect valuable resources in the GCW. 

Acknowledgements 

Bren School: Linus Blomqvist, Ph.D. Student; Dr. Frank Davis, Distinguished Professor; Dr. Ashley Larsen, Associate Professor; Dr. Andrew MacDonald, Assistant Professor; Dr. Ruth Oliver, Assistant Professor; Dr. Andrew Plantinga, Professor; Dr. David Tilman, Distinguished Professor 

Lynn Canal Conservation: Stacie Evans, Board President; Eric Holle, Board Vice President; Torrey Larson, Communications Coordinator; Jessica Plachta, Executive Director 

Richard Carstensen, Lead Naturalist, Discovery Southeast

David P. Gregovich, Wildlife Research Analyst

Herb Hammond, Registered Professional Forester and Forest Ecologist

Derek Poinsette, Executive Director, Takshanuk Watershed Council

Kevin S. White, Wildlife Research Biologist