Cassandra Andrew (University of Calgary)

Published purpose

This project will co-develop a community-based wildlife health surveillance framework with Yukon First Nation governments to support monitoring of wildlife health, food safety, and emerging disease risks in a changing Arctic environment. Using a One Health approach that connects human, animal, and environmental health, the project will bring together Indigenous knowledge holders, harvesters, youth, researchers, and governments to identify priorities, develop monitoring tools, and guide data collection and interpretation. By providing training and mentorship opportunities, the initiative will strengthen local capacity, support Indigenous self-determination in wildlife stewardship, and improve decision-making related to wildlife management, public health, and climate adaptation.