Transfer of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) has declined and/or concentrated within families in many tribal communities. At the same time native peoples are amongst the most underrepresented groups within scientific (SEK) communities. The social and ecological stakes of understanding how the longest residents of a landscape have managed species and their communities have never been higher for indigenous and non-indigenous populations alike, as well as the ecosystems they inhabit.
An experiential framework for providing TEK and SEK information and perspectives was developed assuming that Traditional and Scientific ecological knowledge are both valid and influential forms of “local knowledge”. Within this model, TEK and SEK Advisors share ecological knowledge with Tribal members and one another in a multicultural setting where distinct perspectives are "on equal ground”. Through this series of mixed (TEK and SEK) experiential trainings, Tribal and other participants are introduced and re-exposed to traditional hunting, fishing, gathering and management practices along with related aspects of aquatic, terrestrial & atmospheric science. Training sessions present traditional thoughts and practices while seeking always to respect the native cultural protocols of gathering with specific intentions in a particular place during the most suitable season. Sessions also introduce foundations of scientific methodology along with in-depth demonstrations of current scientific lines of research & inquiry.
Results/Conclusions
Building of environmental management skills within individuals and at the community scale has been documented. Hands-on and practical experiences ensure that learning can lead to use-based management and understanding of the subsistence lifestyle model still chosen by some. A greater awareness of phenology of plant and animal species has been gained during a process resulting in a relocalizing of the Tribal community within its historical homelands. Opportunities to establish and deepen relationships with local and regional environmental organizations have been many.
A revitalization of the informal intergenerational transfer of biocultural information has resulted, often through oral teachings and native language. More formally, the founding of a Tribal Environmental Protection Board (TEPAB) composed of youth, adults and elders capable of advising the Tribal Council and membership on ecological issues stands to benefit Tribal and ecological communities for generations to come.
While community, language & ecological realities differ even over short distances a locally adaptable TEK/SEK training model may serve to both increase Tribal environmental capacity and sustainable management and expose scientists to traditional ways and worldviews which may support, challenge and/or broaden their research perspectives.
