Glyphosate Research on forest Organisms and Wildlife health
Our Research
Key Objectives
1
Determine the extent and persistence of glyphosate residues in boreal and sub-boreal forests.
2
Evaluate the potential risks to forest biodiversity and ecosystem functions, particularly focusing on soil and plant microbial communities.
3
Assess the impact of glyphosate on the gut microbiome and hormone profiles of wildlife species, including rodents and larger mammals.
4
Investigate the indirect effects of glyphosate on wildlife health, such as changes in behavior, physiology, and reproductive success.
5
Provide scientific evidence to support updates in forestry practices and policy recommendations for glyphosate use.
This research is crucial for Canada, as forests cover a significant portion of the country landmass and play a vital role in its economy, ecology, and cultural heritage. By understanding the impacts of glyphosate on forest ecosystems, we aim to develop evidence-based strategies to minimize negative effects and promote the long-term health and resilience of Canadian forests. Our findings will be shared with partner organizations and the broader community to ensure that the knowledge generated contributes to best management practices.
Research Projects
Glyphosate Residues in Forests
Investigate the extent and persistence of glyphosate residues in Canadian forests, including soil, water, and plant tissues. Dr. Lisa Wood, a plant biologist at UNBC, will lead this aspect, focusing on the factors influencing the distribution and degradation of glyphosate in different forest ecosystems. This involves detailed field sampling and advanced analytical techniques.
Lead Investigator: Dr. Lisa Wood, UNBC
Collaborators: Dr. Jeff Werner, Dr. Susan Murch
Impact on Gut Microbiome
Assess the potential impact of glyphosate exposure on the gut microbiome of wildlife species inhabiting forest ecosystems. Dr. Deanna Gibson at UBCO will utilize advanced genomic techniques, such as 16S rRNA sequencing, to characterize changes in microbial diversity and function in response to glyphosate. This research aims to understand how glyphosate-induced dysbiosis affects wildlife health and behavior.
Lead Investigator: Dr. Deanna Gibson, UBCO
Collaborators: Dr. Jeff Werner, Dr. Susan Murch
Effects on Wildlife Health
Evaluate the potential direct and indirect effects of glyphosate on the health and fitness of wildlife populations in forest ecosystems. Dr. Heather Bryan at UNBC will lead this effort, investigating toxicological risks, behavioral changes, and reproductive outcomes associated with glyphosate exposure through field studies and controlled laboratory experiments.
Lead Investigator: Dr. Heather Bryan, UNBC
Collaborators: Dr. Jeff Werner, Dr. Susan Murch
Ecosystem-Level Consequences
Examine the broader ecological consequences of glyphosate use in forests, including impacts on organismal communities, nutrient cycling, and food web dynamics. Dr. Miranda Hart at UBCO will focus on soil microbial communities and nutrient cycling, while Dr. Dezene Huber at UNBC will assess shifts in arthropod biodiversity. Together, they will evaluate the cascading effects on forest biodiversity and ecosystem functions.
Lead Investigators: Dr. Miranda Hart, UBCO & Dr. Dezene Huber, UNBC
Collaborators: Dr. Jeff Werner, Dr. Susan Murch
Sample Collection
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During the summer and fall of 2025, our research crews spent many hours collecting samples in the field, collecting samples and data for the research on plants, soil, birds, arthropods, and rodents.
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Samples were first collected in July, before any treatments took place. The same sample types were collected again in the same forest cutblocks in August and/or September, after treatment with either brushing or glyphosate-based herbicide took place.
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Sample collection will be repeated in the summer of 2026.
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Samples for the research on mustelids and ungulates were collected by our partner organisations in the fall and winter, as described below.
Our botany team conducted plant community surveys and collected samples of soil and plant tissue (roots, shoots, flowers, & fruits of 2 species).
Mustelids
Samples received from our partner organisations were sorted and are currently being stored until analyses can begin.
Our arthropod researchers set up traps to collect pollinators (primarily bumble bees) and ground-dwelling arthropods (primarily spiders).
Birds
Our bird researcher deployed acoustic monitors programmed to record birdsong during early morning hours.
Rodents
Our small mammals research team used marked catch and release methods to trap red-backed voles. Health data and faeces were collected.
Ungulates
More samples from ungulates will be collected by our partner organisations in the fall of 2025.
Mustelids & Ungulates Sample Collection
Members of our partner organisations have been collecting samples of tissues, faecal material, and/or hair from harvested animals, primarily weasels and moose, since October, 2024. As of June 2025, 68 sample kits have been retrieved and are being stored in a freezer at UNBC. Soon, graduate students will being working with these samples and the contents between our researchers to begin analyses. The remaining sample kits will be used in the fall of 2025.