About LEO
The Local Environmental Observer (LEO) Network in BC was a project of FNHA's Environmental Public Health Services (EPHS), delivered in partnership with the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC), from 2020 to 2023.
During its time as an FNHA-supported initiative, the LEO Network in BC aimed to:
- Grow its membership base to include First Nations communities in BC, with a focus on individual observers
- Create a culturally safe space for two-way information sharing
- Integrate First Nations environmental health and wellness perspectives into platform materials
The Network also hosted events and developed materials that highlighted climate change and unusual environmental events that occurred in BC, such as:
- Virtual gatherings – inclusive spaces to learn about LEO observations and various topics related to climate change and environmental health
- Newsletters – featuring emerging observations, environmental health trends, community stories, wise practices, and Traditional Knowledge
- Partnership opportunities – for individuals interested in climate change and environmental health to become observers or knowledge experts
While FNHA is no longer actively coordinating the LEO Network in BC, the platform remains publicly accessible and continues to serve as a valuable tool for raising awareness about unusual environmental changes within Indigenous communities and lands. It supports efforts to identify healthy and effective ways to address and adapt to those changes.
LEO “observers" (members) can connect with experts such as Indigenous Traditional Knowledge holders and scientists to integrate Indigenous, local, and scientific knowledge. Observers can also share information with one another to build informed, community-based connections.
The LEO Network remains a useful resource for exploring climate change and environmental health in BC and can complement other surveillance and monitoring efforts.
Join LEO!
To learn more about the LEO Network and how to become a member, visit the LEO Network website. On the site, you can read all about LEO and browse LEO publications. You can join LEO as an individual observer. Once you have created an account, you will be able to read and post observations.
LEO Network Features
The LEO Network website features a global map and data interface where users can explore stories that include observations, expert input, photos, and videos. The platform includes:
- An interactive map
- A searchable database of observations and news articles
- Updates from the global LEO community
Observations of unusual environmental changes are posted with supporting media and reviewed by Indigenous and scientific experts, who may provide interpretation, verification, or additional resources.
Over time, these observations contribute to identifying emerging trends in ecosystems and human well-being. In Alaska, the LEO Network has grown to include over 1500 participants and continues to highlight climate change impacts and adaption approaches.
For more about how the LEO works, see Learn about LEO.
