Caribou Research and Entomology in NRM–CIF Speaker Series
Mark your calendar and join us for the speaker series on Wednesday January 21, 2026 from 5pm to 6pm.
- Caribou Habitat Selection and Movement in a Changing World - Dr. Michel P. Laforge
- Exploring Entomology at Lakehead University - Dr. Seung-II Lee
How to join?
- In person: at Room BB 1075, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay campus (Snacks will be provided.)
- Via Zoom: https://lakeheadu.zoom.us/j/99099825303?pwd=tZzj0jBba0sbjyX6objBt0yLgRQn...
Meeting ID: 990 9982 5303
Passcode: 643720
Summary of the presentations
Caribou habitat selection and movement in a changing world - Dr. Michel P. Laforge
Caribou are declining throughout their range, making caribou conservation an ever-pressing issue. Declines are generally
attributed to large-scale changes and disturbance to habitat in concert with changes to climate that alter interspecific
relationships across their range. Despite this, many questions remain about the proximate causes of caribou population
decline and, in turn, the most effective ways to mitigate impacts on the species. My research takes a movement and
behavioural ecology-centric approach to quantify caribou responses to environmental stressors such as anthropogenic
disturbance in the context of broad-scale environmental change.
Exploring Entomology at Lakehead University – Dr. Seung-II Lee
Biodiversity is fundamental to healthy forest ecosystems. Arthropods are among the most diverse and pivotal components of biodiversity, yet many arthropod groups remain understudied. At Lakehead University, my entomology research program examines how forest management practices influence arthropod communities. Current projects assess ground‑dwelling arthropod responses to biomass harvesting, thinning, and variable retention harvesting. These studies highlight how structural complexity and deadwood shape arthropod communities. New initiatives also explore the effects of herbicides on pollinator diversity in power transmission corridors. Additional projects focus on wood decomposition and saproxylic insects, as well as insect abundance and biomass changes in North America. Overall, my entomological research advances field‑based approaches to conserving arthropod biodiversity in Canada.
About NRM - CIF Speaker Series
In celebration of Lakehead University’s 60th anniversary, the Faculty of Natural Resources Management (NRM) and the Canadian Institute of Forestry (CIF) are hosting a monthly speaker series from January to April 2026. Each session highlights research and discussions on forestry and environmental stewardship. Participants are welcome to attend either in person or online.