Project 1 Process Assignment 5%

Title of the source for the Critique Essay- How climate change is impacting the Hudson
Bay Lowlands- Canada’s largest wetland by Matt Morison and Nora Casson.

Argument Breakdown (ungraded, required)-

Break down the argument of the source.

Issue: Climate change has lead to significantly dangerous shifts in the Hudson Bay
Lowlands. The article discusses consequences on the ecosystem of the wetlands.
Thesis: Climate change is adversely impacting the Hudson Bay Lowland, affecting Flora
and Fauna alike.

Reasons and Evidence:

• Three main reasons are highlighted by the authors namely, melting permafrost leading to
land subsidence, increased frequency and intensity of wildfires, and changing
hydrological patterns impacting the region's ecosystems and wildlife.

• The evidence presented in the article includes scientific studies, observations from
researchers, and data on temperature records, permafrost thaw, and vegetation changes.

Reverse outline (ungraded, required)

Para 1- 4: The Hudson Bay Lowlands, a picturesque region rich in peat and small
ponds, is experiencing accelerated warming, projected to be three times higher
than the global average. This rapid temperature rise is not only impacting the
environment but also disrupting the interactions between snow, water, plants, and
animals. Recent research highlights the broader consequences of climate change
on the delicate ecological balance of the area.
Para 5-9: The wood frog, a resilient amphibian capable of enduring harsh winter
conditions in boreal and subarctic areas, is at risk from climate change in the
region. The shortened period between snowmelt and summer onset may result in
smaller emerging frogs, potentially impacting their survival. Additionally, altered
rainfall patterns and increased evaporation due to warming temperatures may
 affect the availability and duration of water in ponds and wetlands, posing
challenges for both tadpoles and adult frogs in the area.
Para 10-13: Subarctic ecosystems demonstrate the capacity to respond and adapt
to climate changes, highlighting the interconnectedness within the landscape, such
as the relationship between trees and snow. Rising temperatures may result in the
northward movement of the boreal forest tree line, significantly altering the flora
and fauna of these regions. Unique features like tree islands, acting as snow
fencing and retaining snow, can accelerate these transformations by promoting
tree growth and providing moisture and insulation to the environment.

Full Summary (graded)

Summarize your selected source in the form of a paragraph of about 100 words.
The Hudson Bay Lowlands, Canada's largest wetland, are experiencing significant
impacts from climate change. Rising temperatures are causing permafrost to thaw,
resulting in changes to the landscape and hydrology of the region. Wetlands are
drying up, leading to a decline in aquatic populations and the loss of important
habitat for migratory birds. The melting permafrost also releases large amounts of
greenhouse gases, furthering global warming. Additionally, the changing climate is
affecting the traditional way of life of Indigenous communities in the area, who rely
on the wetlands for hunting, fishing, and gathering resources. Overall, climate change
poses significant challenges to the ecological and cultural integrity of the Hudson
Bay Lowlands.