Researchers, Indigenous partners, and industry specialists gathered at the University of Northern British Columbia for the Stream Symposium, a two-day forum organised by UNBC Geography faculty members Dr. Siraj Islam and Alexandre Bevington for examining how environmental change is affecting water systems across the region.
More than 50 participants took part in discussions centered on snowpack trends, river conditions, watershed health, and new tools used to monitor environmental change. Presenters outlined emerging patterns linked to climate variability and explored how those changes may shape future water availability and aquatic habitats in northern communities.
The symposium also examined advances in remote sensing, modelling, and hydrological research—methods that are helping scientists better track drought risk, flood potential, and long-term watershed stability. Participants emphasized that collaboration among communities, First Nations, and researchers remains essential as decision-makers plan for evolving conditions.
Organizers say the event aims to strengthen shared understanding of northern water systems and support ongoing efforts to build resilient, well-managed watersheds throughout British Columbia’s interior and northwest regions.