Carissa Wasyliw

2021 Weston Family Awards in Northern Research recipient

Master’s student
Memorial University of Newfoundland

A master’s student in the Department of Geography at Memorial University of Newfoundland, Carissa is studying the recovery of plant communities after fire in northern Yukon. Climate-caused changes in fire patterns are altering the regrowth of plant species in this region, including sites that are shifting from tree-dominated to shrub-dominated habitats. This shift could have future implications on culturally
valuable species which play important roles in the wellbeing of northern communities.

Carissa is examining the specific drivers behind these changes and focusing on the recovery of culturally significant species, including berry producing plants and lichen, which is an important food source for caribou. Results from this study will help to predict future northern plant recovery patterns and inform management of these biologically and culturally significant areas.

Learn more about the Weston Family Awards in Northern Research.