Development, industry, recreation and highways fragment and isolate the Stein-Nahatlatch GBPU, making connectivity with other populations near impossible.
The Stein-Nahatlatch Grizzly Bear Population Unit (GBPU), located in southwest British Columbia, has the most at-risk bears in Canada. First Nations are acting to safeguard the remaining grizzly bears, and to secure their future.
Since 2005, DNA studies in the Stein-Nahatlatch GBPU continue to show genetic isolation and declining numbers. Human activities add extra pressure to the fragile situation. Only a few breeding females remain to hold the population.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), has classified the Stein-Nahatlatch population as “Critically Endangered” (see map). The Province of British Columbia’s Conservation Concern ranking is at “Extreme”.
B.C. does not have Recovery Management plans for its at-risk Grizzly Bear populations. A high-level grizzly bear management plan is being developed by the Province; however, interim measures are needed now.
The Stein-Nahatlatch Grizzly Bear Population is at risk of extinction if nothing is done.
Stein-Nahatlatch grizzly bear Jinx, the sub-adult cub of Jewel. Both grizzlies have been poached. Photo: Dave Molenaar
St’át’imc, Secwémpemc, Nlaka’pamux, Sylix, and Skwxwú7mesh Úxumixw First Nations are taking the lead to bring new genes and new hope into the Stein-Nahatlatch population. Grizzly bears have shared with First Nations people the ways of survival and stewardship, and are honoured through song, dance, and the promise to protect them for generations to come.
With support and alliance with Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resources Operations and Rural Development, Conservation Northwest and Coast to Cascades Grizzly Bear Initiative, a plan to translocate new Grizzly Bears into the Stein-Nahaltath Grizzly Bear Population Unit, is underway.
The initial strategy is for 1-2 Grizzly Bears from the unceded Territories of the Simpcw First Nation (part of the Secwémpemc Nation), to be moved into the Stein-Nahatlatch population, within the unceded Territories of the St’át’imc, Secwémpemc, Nlaka’pamux, Sylix, and Skwxwú7mesh Úxumixw. Cultural Ceremonies have taken place to begin the process of preparation for the bears, and for their future in the mountains and valleys of the Stein. Management and monitoring for the health and success of the bears will be ongoing.
It has been a long journey, that in many ways has just begun, and we honour everyone who has been part of it.
A St’át’imc Nation video highlights the First Nations partnerships and hopes for the Stein-Nahatlatch Translocation Project. The video can be viewed here:
The Coast to Cascades Grizzly Bear Initiative and our partner Conservation Northwest continue to push for recovery strategies and initiatives. Collaborating with and supporting First Nations has always been our priority and it is the way forward. Honouring Culture and Science to find a balance for iconic grizzly bears to thrive on the landscape.