You are presumed to be honest and responsible without evidence to the contrary beyond a reasonable doubt… on the balance of probablilties you are justified by 51 % likelyhood.
Since 2010 in British Columbia, there’s been a group of people that have met and had fellowship going out with their passion to document and expond on the types and conditions for the natural ecology about Merritt.
They have recently changed their meetings from the third Thursday of every month to the second Thursday of every month. So the first meeting for their new year will be this coming Thursday the 20th of September 2026.
The format for the first meeting is always the AGM. The voting bar established by paid up memberships and they will take that at the meeting. For further details or a form that you can fill up prehand to go to their website.NNS
The Brief annual meeting is followed by a member’s photo night and discussion about the photos. And the meetings continue monthly second Thursday to the end of June.
There have been numbers of bear related discourses over time through our local naturalist society registered or otherwise. One formal presentation in 2019 was billed in this writing below, thanks to Francis.
You can contact the registered society at this link. They are always interested in natural interlopers especially photos.
Everyone loves hearing about Grizzly Bears and the presentation by Francis Iredale is especially worth attending. He has been involved in research and radio-tracking of Grizzlies in the southern Chilcotins for many years. The population status and success of this marginal population of Grizzlies is of great concern. These bears spend much time in the high elevation alpine areas and have lifestyles that are somewhat different to those better-known Grizzlies on the BC coast. Not to be missed!
Source Nicola Naturalists
Editor’s Note: we are not the registered society our mandate at kevingriffiths.ca is broader than that…
Have a safe Canada Day.
And a Natural forth coming year in our confederation. 159 onto 160.
While Canada hasn’t lost any high-profile megafauna like grizzly bears or caribou entirely to global extinction in the last 50 years, several unique, localized species and distinct populations have completely vanished from the country.
### 1. Globally Extinct
(Gone Forever)These unique creatures only existed in specific Canadian habitats and are now completely lost to the world: * **The Hadley Lake Sticklebacks (Extinct c. 1999):** This was a fascinating “species pair” (two distinct but closely related species, the Benthic and Limnetic sticklebacks) that lived side-by-side exclusively in Hadley Lake on Lasqueti Island, British Columbia. Discovered in the 1980s, they were entirely wiped out within a decade after someone illegally introduced predatory catfish into the lake. * **The Banff Longnose Dace (Extinct c. 1986):** This tiny, specialized freshwater fish was endemic to a single marsh fed by hot springs in Banff National Park, Alberta. A combination of factors led to its sudden demise: the introduction of invasive tropical aquarium fish, a beaver dam that restricted their movement, and chlorinated water leaking into the marsh from a nearby swimming pool.
### 2. Extirpated from Canada (Still Exist Elsewhere)
These species or distinct regional populations once thrived in Canada but can now only be found in the United States or in captive breeding programs: * **Greater Prairie-Chicken (Extirpated c. 1987):** Known for the striking, bright orange air sacs on the necks of males during their elaborate courtship dances, this large grouse once ranged across Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario. Massive habitat loss from agriculture and over-hunting drove them completely out of Canada. * **Karner Blue & Frosted Elfin Butterflies (Extirpated c. 1991 and 1988):** Both of these small, beautiful butterflies disappeared from their native oak savannah habitats in southern Ontario. The Karner Blue vanished primarily because its caterpillars feed exclusively on wild lupine, a plant that rapidly disappeared due to land development and fire suppression. * **Black-Footed Ferret (Extirpated in the wild c. 1974):** This nocturnal predator disappeared from the Canadian prairies as its primary prey, the prairie dog, was systematically eradicated by ranchers. While technically extirpated from the wild decades ago, massive conservation efforts have since attempted to carefully reintroduce captive-bred ferrets back into Saskatchewan’s Grasslands National Park.
### 3. Recent Distinct Population Extinctions
The Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) also tracks distinct regional populations that disappear: * **Lake Whitefish Species Pairs (Como Lake, ON) (Extinct c. 2018):** A unique evolutionary pair of small- and large-bodied whitefish in Como Lake, Ontario, was officially declared extinct after an invasive zooplankton (the spiny waterflea) completely disrupted the local food web. * **Atlantic Walrus – Nova Scotia/Newfoundland Population (Extinct c. 2017):** While the Arctic populations of the Atlantic Walrus survive, the distinct population that once hauled out along the Atlantic coastlines of Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland was formally declared extinct by COSEWIC after failing to recover from historical commercial harvesting.
Ostriches are raised for meat, feathers and eggs and are commercial. However these bunch of hostages in the news of late were going away from that and we’re used for tourism. Coming endeared to some keepers. Wouldn’t have been, if it was just for meat.
Avian flu
This is a very serious condition that affects foul and gets into people it can be fatal to people and the closer they are the bigger population areas and more of a risk.
The cull that was ordered by the authorities has been stayed and there may be a presentation between the parties at the Supreme Court of Canada and there is a controversy over testing the remaining birds, 300 out of a possible 450 that had contacted the avian flu and are under scrutiny.
H5N1
The virus involved is H5N1, and could be a particularly concern at the start of the flu season and respiratory illness that could accompany it.
So, has anybody ever asked you? Did you notice that a formation of geese is usually longer on one side than the other, and asked yourself, why is that?
The reply is it’s “there are more geese on that side.”
So truth and reconciliation day begins with what is obvious first. The contentious next, then the punchline is “more work will be more productive than more obvious discoveries.”
Nicola river these salmon are 200 meters up stream from the Voght St bridge.
Spawning
The salmon in the photo seem to be very lively and actively spawning.
Salmon
Photo KDG, September 21 2025, Merritt BC…
Nicola River System
The Nicola River system, located in the Thompson-Nicola region of British Columbia, is a vital watershed for several species of Pacific salmon. The annual salmon runs are not only a spectacular natural event but also a crucial part of the ecosystem and hold deep cultural significance for local First Nations.The Salmon SpeciesThe Nicola River and its tributaries support runs of several salmon species, including: * Chinook Salmon: Considered a prized species, Chinook are one of the largest and most sought-after salmon. * Coho Salmon: These are known for being a bit more elusive, which makes them a challenge for anglers. * Pink Salmon: Pink salmon are the smallest species and are known for the distinctive hump that develops on the back of the males during their spawning migration. * Sockeye Salmon: Although their presence has been less consistent in recent years, sockeye were historically a significant part of the Nicola system.The timing of the salmon runs can vary by species, but generally, the main runs occur in the late summer and early fall, as the fish make their incredible journey from the ocean to their natal spawning grounds.Environmental ChallengesThe health of the salmon runs in the Nicola River is a significant concern due to various environmental pressures. The Thompson-Nicola region is particularly susceptible to the effects of climate change, which has led to: * Drought: Lower-than-average snowpack and reduced summer rainfall can lead to low stream flows and higher water temperatures. This can trap fish in isolated pools, increase their vulnerability to predators, and cause a loss of critical habitat. * Wildfires: The increasing frequency and severity of wildfires can damage the watershed, leading to increased sediment runoff that can smother salmon eggs and alter the river’s habitat.These factors, combined with historical impacts from logging and water withdrawals for agriculture, pose a serious threat to the persistence and recovery of salmon populations.Cultural SignificanceFor the First Nations of the Nicola Valley, particularly the Nlaka’pamux and Secwepemc peoples, salmon are far more than just a food source. Salmon are an integral part of their identity, culture, and social structure. * Sustenance and Trade: For thousands of years, salmon have been a foundational food source and a key item for trade, sustaining large and vibrant communities. * Spiritual and Cultural Connection: In many traditional beliefs, salmon are considered gift-bearing relatives and are treated with immense respect. The return of the salmon each year is a powerful symbol of life, endurance, and the cyclical nature of the world. Traditional stories, songs, and ceremonies celebrate this deep connection. * Stewardship: Indigenous knowledge and traditional practices have historically played a vital role in managing and protecting the salmon populations. This includes using methods like dipnetting and establishing agreements between communities to ensure the sustainability of the resource for all.Efforts are underway, often led by First Nations communities and conservation groups, to address the challenges facing the Nicola watershed and its salmon. These initiatives focus on habitat restoration, sustainable water management, and integrated decision-making to protect this irreplaceable resource for future generations.
The Nicola Naturalist Society Incorporated have begun their fall and winter program again since 2010 in Merritt, British Columbia, the group have been going out doing projects in association with some government and Nature BC.
Lichen outing:
On Saturday September 27 th 2025. With Christine, You need to be paid up member to go.
Mallard ducks are the most prevalent around our place, our neck of the woods here in Merritt, British Columbia. We love our Mallard ducks.
The local naturalist club will begin their regular weekend fall and winter schedule on the 18th. Their meetings are generally most months on the third Thursday at 7:00 at the Nicola Valley institute of technology, top of the hill Belshaw Avenue in Merritt.
Well, it’s complicated. While a cooler spot might sound good in a warming world, the cold blob is a sign that major ocean currents are changing. That could have big impacts on weather patterns and sea levels around the globe. Scientists are still studying it to understand the full effects.
Tilt of the earth?
That’s a great question! The Milankovitch cycles do play a role in Earth’s long-term climate patterns, but the cooling of the cold blob is happening much faster than those cycles would predict. Scientists believe it’s primarily driven by the melting of the Greenland ice sheet and its impact on ocean currents.
Fish return
Editor’s note: The government of British Columbia opened a recreational fishing season on returning salmon in the Fraser River on the 22nd of August 2025, this abundance of return is being credited to some cooler water by some sources. This brief opening is 11 Days ending on September 1st 2025. Many sources are lined up to take credit. In our view it may be a result of the rest the environment got during COVID.
Based on the search results, I can now answer all parts of the user’s query. Modern Tree Culture Modern tree culture, or the modern view of trees, is multifaceted. Trees are valued for their ecological benefits, such as sequestering CO2, enriching soil, and creating habitats. They are also integral to modern landscape design, where their aesthetic qualities and ability to define spaces are utilized. On a deeper level, trees continue to be powerful cultural symbols in art, literature, and environmental movements, representing growth, resilience, and the interconnectedness of life. They are also seen as vital for human well-being, providing sanctuaries for mental health and a connection to nature. Distinction from Celtic and Druidic Tree Culture The distinction between modern and ancient Celtic/Druidic tree culture lies primarily in the spiritual and religious significance of trees. * Celtic/Druidic Culture: Trees were considered sacred, sentient beings and were central to spiritual practices. Certain trees like the oak, ash, and hazel were revered as embodying wisdom, life, and a connection to ancestors. The word “Druid” itself may be derived from the Celtic word for oak, “deru.” Sacred groves were places of worship, and specific trees were believed to have magical or divine properties, used for divination, healing, and protection from evil spirits. Felling a sacred tree was a serious offense, sometimes a symbol of a rival clan’s demoralization. * Modern Culture: While trees are still seen as symbolic and spiritually significant to some, this view is not a dominant part of mainstream society. The modern appreciation for trees is more rooted in science, ecology, and aesthetics. The focus is on their role in mitigating climate change, improving air quality, and supporting urban life, rather than their use in specific religious rites or as literal dwellings for spirits. The Good, the Bad, and the Evil The search results interpreted the user’s query about “deep tree culture” in a more literal and horticultural sense, but also provided information that can be applied to the symbolic and cultural aspects. Good: * Environmental: Trees are crucial for creating habitats, enriching soil, and managing water. They sequester carbon, reduce urban heat, and lower energy consumption. * Aesthetic & Personal: Trees define outdoor spaces and are a source of beauty and inspiration in art. They are shown to improve emotional health and provide a calming experience. * Symbolic: The “Tree of Life” motif, found in many cultures, represents a unifying idea of creativity and the interconnectedness of all life. Trees symbolize personal growth, resilience, and stability. Bad: * Horticultural: The “bad” aspects are largely practical. Planting trees too deep can kill them by smothering roots. Improper planting and soil compaction can stunt growth and make trees susceptible to disease and wind damage. * Urban & Public Health: Urban trees can have negative effects, such as emitting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to smog during heat waves, or their roots can damage pipes and foundations. Some trees can also be a source of allergens. Evil: The concept of “evil” in “deep tree culture” is not addressed in a literal sense by the search results. However, from the historical Celtic context, the practice of a rival clan destroying an enemy’s sacred tree was a demoralizing act of spiritual violence. In this sense, an act of destroying something deeply sacred to a culture or people could be seen as an act of evil within their belief system.
Kevin Griffiths
percypaschal
The Proprietor Review 