Climate change is affecting British Columbia in many ways. In recent years we have seen intense fire activity and massive insect outbreaks. It is imperative that we document our current ecological baselines so that we can better recognize, manage, and respond to change.

Dr. Dezene Huber’s research program has been using genomics to better understand the huge mountain pine beetle outbreak in the interior, and is applying the same tools the burgeoning spruce beetle infestation. He has also started to use genomics tools to monitor and catalog insect biodiversity in forests and streams to help with species conservation and to monitor, protect, and improve ecosystem services.

The talk will be followed by a moderated question and answer period open to everyone in attendance.