Module 3: Decolonization and Indigenous Property Rights
Entry 5: Indigenous Knowledge informing conservation
As part of my research, I am looking for specific examples of how Indigenous ways of being, doing, and knowing, can be woven into math, science, and technology.
I first came across this story through a website I use in my class for current events called Newsela. This article discusses how Indigenous knowledge and storytelling help to inform scientists researching Kermode (spirit) bear populations in British Columbia. The study found that science-informed researchers had overestimated the population of bears in the region and the real number was much closer to that which was taught through the traditional stories. This particular article is written for middle school students and is a good way to show how Indigenous knowledge can work with science.
I found the peer reviewed article related to this study as well. The authors also referenced another study that combined Indigenous knowledge and genetic research to inform conservation efforts related to caribou populations.
Bookshire, B. (2021, June 28). Science and Indigenous history team up to help spirit bears. Newsela. https://newsela.com/read/indigenous-people-kermode-bear/id/2001020259/
Service, C., Bourbonnais, M., Adams, M., Henson, L. Neasloss, D., Picard, C., Paquet, P., & Darimont, C. (2020). Spatial patterns and rarity of the white-phased ‘Spirit bear’ allele reveal gaps in habitat protection.Ecological Solutions and Evidence, 1(2). https://doi.org/10.1002/2688-8319.12014
Allison, this is a phenomenal way of merging Indigenous knowledge with Western science (e.g., genetics) to restore environmental balance. It’s incredible to see Indigenous knowledge having a seat at the table in this research and execution of preservation efforts.
Thank you for sharing!