Scripts for: Predicting Suitable Habitat for Skwenkwínem (Claytonia lanceolata), a Culturally Significant Plant, Using a Reproducible Species Distribution Model

Abstract: Colonialism and a changing climate have threatened culturally significant food plants and the well-being of those who rely on them. An example is skwenkwínem (western spring beauty, Claytonia lanceolata: Pursh), which has declined in quality and accessibility for the Secwépemc People of Skeetchestn Indian Band. This study aims to provide predictions and visual tools to inform Skeetchestn's conservation efforts for their skwenkwínem patches, from a computationally reproducible species distribution model. Using a set of predictors informed by qualitative interviews with Skeetchestn community members (Informed model), and the 19 bioclimatic variables from WorldClim (WorldClim model), we predicted suitable habitat for skwenkwínem over its known range. For both our total study area and Skeetchestn Territory, we predicted a decrease in suitable habitat from the present to 2081–2100, based on the WorldClim CMIP6 climate change scenario SSP 5–8.5 (worst case). These predictions use Skeetchestn's knowledge of skwenkwínem and commonly used bioclimatic predictors to support Skeetchestn's goals of food sovereignty.