March 26, 2026: AB Branch: Prairie Partnerships: Weaving Hydraulic Modelling and Traditional Knowledge in a Community-Led Framework

Date: Thursday, March 26, 2026 – 12-1pm, Mountain Time

Topic: Prairie Partnerships: Weaving Hydraulic Modelling and Traditional Knowledge in a Community-Led Framework

Speaker: Hayley Melrose

Description:

A dominant feature on the Canadian Prairies are hydroelectric dams. These man-made structures fragment cultures and the environment. Community X is a First Nation downstream of one such dam, built in the 1960’s; the dam’s effects have not been investigated with considerations to the Nation’s traditional knowledge or priorities. Community X has a significant oral tradition of the area, predating any regulatory structures or policy. Within this oral tradition is a rich catalogue of environmental changes, including how water in and around their reserve has been impacted by anthropogenic actions. This research sought to assess the modern and historical impact of the dam to local surface water dynamics. This was done utilizing a transdisciplinary community-led approach that wove together hydraulic modelling, community engagement, UAV-based LiDAR, and historic air photos. This research was community-led and initiated, and research outputs were shaped through conversations with Community X. The knowledge they shared filled the gaps of western scientific approaches to create a holistic understanding of the environment.