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Peer Review

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Abstract. The Bathurst barren-ground caribou herd was chosen as the focus of a study of the
possible effects of a changed climate on hunting of a caribou herd in the Northwest Territories. Four
climate change scenarios representing conditions under a doubling of atmospheric carbon dioxide
concentrations were used in the study. The locations of the Bathurst herd throughout the year were
determined, and the 1951 to 1980 average monthly temperatures and total monthly precipitation
amounts were ascertained at those locations. The four climate change scenarios were applied, with
changes in average monthly temperatures and in total monthly precipitation amounts noted. Analyses
indicate a possible increase in winter snowfall, and increased insect harassment of caribou in the
summer, due to an increase in average monthly temperatures. The reduced accessibility and health
of caribou in the Bathurst herd suggest a reduced hunting potential. Management options are briefly
discussed.