Elk Valley Cumulative Effects Assessment

A scenario analysis was completed to support decision-making that involves the assessment, mitigation, and management of cumulative effects in the Elk Valley. ALCES Online was used to assess how five Valued Components (Old Growth/Mature Forests, Riparian Habitat, Westslope Cutthroat Trout, Grizzly Bear, Bighorn Sheep) are likely to respond to the cumulative effects of future land uses and natural disturbance. Since the details of future changes are uncertain, several different scenarios were explored that differed in what, where, and how much development might occur in the Elk Valley between now and 2065. Scenarios also explored increased natural disturbances as a result of changing climates in the future. More information about the Elk Valley Cumulative Effects Management Framework, including the project report, is available at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/natural-resource-stewardship/cumulative-effects-framework/regional-assessments/kootenay-boundary/elk-valley-cemf