YLUPC
← Return to Plan
Loading LMU…
Region:
LMU #:

Designation:
Area:
Image Scattered lakes, wetlands and open forests underlain with lichens and permafrost are throughout this unit. The incised Caribou River valley is in the background. (CWS photo)
Land Status Non-Settlement Land
Objectives
  • Water quality and flow in Lusk Lake, the Turner Lake wetlands and the Caribou River are not affected by human activities.
  • Community cultural activities practiced without significant disturbance.
  • The ecological and cultural significance of Edigii Hill (aka Caribou Mtn) remains undiminished.
  • Wilderness character is maintained.
Rationale for Designation
  • Includes a Yukon Key Wetland complex that is a well situated stop over for migrating waterfowl.
  • Highest concentration of lakes and wetland complexes in the Region.
  • Highly valued for trapping and other cultural activities.
  • Edigii Hill (or, Caribou Mountain) and Lusk Lake are culturally important places for the TG.
  • Traditional Knowledge indicates that Edigii Hill has been used an alternate calving ground for the Porcupine Caribou Herd. It could be a significant feature during other stages.
  • Several traditional travel routes traverse the unit.
  • Both Edigii Hill and the Turner Lake wetlands were recommended for consideration for protection by the Peel River Watershed Advisory Committee.
  • The steep escarpments that overlook the Caribou River are underlain with permafrost and therefore are especially susceptible to surface disturbance. This susceptibility is predicted to increase as a result of climate change. Resulting slope failures could result in hydrological changes catastrophic to the wetlands.
  • Low mineral potential, and moderate oil and gas potential. Difficult access into the area makes resource development more challenging.
Biophysical Setting
Setting Flat wetland complex, a large incised river fed by a large lake, and a broad flat hill rising out of the plateau.
Ecoregions Peel River Plateau
Bioclimate Zones Taiga Wooded and Taiga Shrub
Ecological Resources
Significant Wildlife and Fish Habitats
Caribou Virtually entire area is moderate and high habitat potential for the Porcupine herd, with concentrations of high potential around central lakes. Little use in recent decades though traditional and scientific knowledge indicate historical heavy use. Edigii Hill could be a significant refuge from insects or deep/hard snow pack.
Moose Expansive moderate-low value late winter habitat.
Marten Extensive and concentrated moderate to high winter habitat suitability. A culturally-significant trapping area.
Sheep No sheep habitat.
Fish Fish presence likely throughout; several known spawning locations.
Grizzly Bear Low habitat suitability in wetlands, moderate to high towards Richardson foothills.
Peregrine Falcon Significant peregrine falcon foraging and nesting habitat.
Birds (General) High concentration of waterbird habitat; high breeding species richness and moderate species of conservation concern.
Vegetation Low-mid elev. wet herb/shrub/conifer, lichen and dry coniferous forest.
Wetlands, Lakes and Riparian Areas Highest concentration of lakes and wetland complexes in the PWPR; wetland key area (YG) and territorially significant. Narrow riparian strip along Caribou River.
Permafrost Extensive high water content permafrost expected. Wetlands “perched” above incised valleys and stable slopes rely on intact permafrost.
Special Features Some mineral licks. Several possible wildlife passes.
Heritage, Social and Cultural Resources
Heritage Resources Travel route along Caribou River with connectivity to Lusk Lake and Upper Peel River; connecting routes between Trail River and Mountain Creek to lower Peel River. A few cabins and several culturally important places (TG).
Palaeontological Resources The sedimentary rocks in this area have high potential to yield Mesozoic fossils.
Economic Development
Transportation and Access Extensive network of old winter roads and unclassified linear features; a conceptual access route has been identified in this unit from Road River to the Peel River.
Traditional Economy TG traditional harvesting and wildlife areas. Turner Lake wetlands are known for good trapping.
Recreation and Tourism No identified high recreation values.
Forestry Little potential for forestry.
Big Game Outfitters and Trapping No registered concessions.
Oil and Gas Resources Peel Plateau and Plain Basin is moderate potential; four abandoned wells. Oil and gas permit (#0018).
Mineral Resources Generally low mineral potential.
Special Management Considerations

Indicator gauges

Surface disturbance (km²)
Linear disturbance (km)

Cumulative effects