COS 125-3 - Indigenous-led research on Traditional Ecological Knowledge informs culturally important conservation priorities

Abstract: Indigenous peoples possess a wealth of traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) that has been developed and passed down over generations, based on our deep connection to the land and the ecosystems we inhabit. This knowledge can be invaluable in helping Indigenous communities adapt to the impacts of climate change and other environmental stressors. However, despite the value of this knowledge, it has often been overlooked or dismissed in Western approaches to conservation. Overall, documenting TEK is an important step towards recognizing and valuing Indigenous knowledge systems and promoting the understanding and management of ecosystems.

In the Ketegaunseebee Anishinaabe Knowledge Study, we aimed to document local wildlife and culture for the purpose of influencing local policy to protect and manage species at risk and culturally important animals. Using direct-to-digital mapping methods based on qualitative data from interviews with Garden River (Ketegaunseebee) First Nation members, we collected TEK on terrestrial species at risk, culturally important animals, Anishinaabemowin language, and cultural landscape features.

In total, we interviewed 37 project participants, recorded over 37 hours of audio, and mapped 404 geospatial data points. We documented information regarding species at risk turtle nesting habitat, population trends of culturally important animals (moose, bats, black ash trees), traditional uses of weaving baskets from now endangered black ash trees, and stories of extinct and extirpated species, including passenger pigeons and woodland caribou. We also found that traditional language and cultural landscape features are important aspects of traditional ecological knowledge. Results from this study will directly influence policy development for Garden River First Nation, including the creation of a Fish and Wildlife Management Plan, an update to the Community Land Use Plan, and the creation of Indigenous protected and conservation areas.