The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) proudly houses the Integrated Watershed Research Group (IWRG), comprising a team of distinguished researchers: Dr. Stephen Déry (Environmental Science), Dr. Philip Owens (Environmental Science), Dr. Eduardo Martins (Freshwater Fish Specialist), and Dr. Margot Parkes (Health Science). Throughout the years, their collaborative efforts have advanced integrated watershed-based research, with a strong emphasis on the Fraser River Basin and several river basins in northern BC, including the Nechako and Quesnel Watersheds. As they embark on Phase 3, the group searches for deeper integration among all stakeholders of these watersheds, particularly First Nations communities. Their research in this phase will focus on four themes: (1) Establishing a Network of Experimental Watersheds for Integrated Research, (2) Investigating the Impacts of Landscape Disturbances on Sediment and Contaminant Fluxes, (3) Studying Fish Responses to Environmental Changes, and (4) Identifying Co-benefits for Climate, Catchments (Watersheds), and Communities. 

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Previous phases

We sincerely thank Dr. Ellen Petticrew (Geography), a former researcher of the IWRG, whose early involvement laid the baseline for our ongoing studies. Dr. Petticrew, though not participating in Phase 3, significantly shaped our trajectory with her pioneering collaborations on the Nechako dating back to the 1990s. We extend our profound gratitude for her invaluable contributions during the project's previous phases from 2014-2022. Additionally, we express heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Barry Booth, former IWRG research manager, whose collaborative spirit played a vital role in the success of our group’s work. Past and present scientific collaborations move us forward with renewed energy and commitment to broaden research.