Climate change and the Bathurst caribou herd in the Northwest Territories, Canada

The Bathurst barren-ground caribou herd was chosen as the focus of a study of the possible effects of a changed climate on hunting of a caribou herd in the Northwest Territories. Four climate change scenarios representing conditions under a doubling of atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations were used in the study. The locations of the Bathurst herd throughout the year were determined, and the 1951 to 1980 average monthly temperatures and total monthly precipitation amounts were ascertained at those locations. The four climate change scenarios were applied, with changes in average monthly temperatures and in total monthly precipitation amounts noted. Analyses indicate a possible increase in winter snowfall, and increased insect harassment of caribou in the summer, due to an increase in average monthly temperatures. The reduced accessibility and health of caribou in the Bathurst herd suggest a reduced hunting potential. Management options are briefly discussed.