Hutton Noth

Resource and Environmental Management master's student in the Faculty of Environment

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

From my time living in a small community on the West Coast of Vancouver Island, I developed a deep appreciation for the central role salmon play in shaping the cultural, ecological, and economic well-being of coastal communities. Witnessing firsthand how interconnected these systems are inspired me to pursue studies in fisheries and aquatic ecology. Through community-based, applied ecological research, I have found purpose in developing knowledge that supports conservation and sustainable resource management. I am motivated by the opportunity to contribute to research that is both scientifically rigorous and meaningful to the communities who depend on healthy salmon populations.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

I chose SFU and the REM program for its interdisciplinary approach and commitment to co-developing research with Indigenous rights holders. The program’s integration of science, policy, and community collaboration allows me to bridge the gap between research and real-world application in producing actionable knowledge that supports conservation and management decisions.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

My research supports five Nuu-chah-nulth Nations on the West Coast of Vancouver Island in better understanding the current health of Coho salmon populations within the region and how habitat conditions may be limiting their recovery. My research combines field research and quantitative modeling to identify the species conservation status and where restoration efforts may have the greatest impact. The goal is to provide Nations with tools to support Indigenous stewardship, resource governance, and the recovery of a culturally and ecologically vital species.

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Indigenous stewardship, Fisheries management, Salmon conservation

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

The courses in the REM program have encouraged me to approach my research from an interdisciplinary perspective, integrating ecological science, policy, and the co-development of knowledge with rights holders. This process has pushed me to reflect on my positionality as a researcher and critically assess the biases and power dynamics I bring to my work. These experiences have strengthened my ability to conduct research that is both scientifically rigorous and grounded in respectful, collaborative conservation practice.

Have you been the recipient of any major or donor-funded awards? If so, please tell us which ones and a little about how the awards have impacted your studies and/or research

I have received the COFA Graduate Award, the NSERC CGS-M, and the Tate Graduate Award for Biodiversity Leadership. These awards have provided valuable support that has allowed me to focus on advancing my research in Coho salmon conservation and habitat modeling, while further developing my skills as an interdisciplinary and collaborative researcher.

Contact Hutton:hnoth@sfu.ca