The UNBC NRESi BMAP
In October of 2012, UNBC signed a Contribution Agreement (Phase 1) with Pacific Trail Pipelines Limited Partnership (PTPLP) to develop a series of research protocols within a Biodiversity Monitoring and Assessment Program (BMAP). During Phase 1, NRESi researchers developed 5 research protocols. The Contribution Agreement to fund the implementation of those protocols was signed in June 2013. We are now beginning to implement this work.
Kitimat LNG (KM LNG) and Pacific Trails Pipeline (PTP) (together
the Project) have indicated their commitment to developing a
Biodiversity Monitoring and Assessment Program (BMAP). In March
2013, UNBC, KMLNG, PTPLP, the Smithsonian Institute, and Archipelago
Marine Research signed a memorandum of understanding establishing
the principals, objectives, vision and mission for ongoing
collaboration on the BMAP.
The BMAP will make a complementary and significant contribution
to the Project by monitoring and evaluating the status and trends of
ecological units and habitats within the Project footprint and areas
of influence. This Program will also contribute to the knowledge and
understanding of the biodiversity in the region as the Project
transects through four ecological units (EU): marine, coastal,
mountain, and interior. This will combine an evaluation and
documentation of actions and tasks to avoid, mitigate, and restore
habitats responding to specific research questions that will link
the biodiversity studies, and studies of ecosystem function, to
Project needs. Responding to the questions as research continues and
construction is underway will allow the incorporation of findings
into construction and operational practices for this and other
development projects.