Introduction to traditional ecological knowledge in wildlife conservation

Ramos, Seafha; Shenk, Tanya; Leong, Kirsten

The purpose of this report is to assist National Park Service (NPS) staff in developing an awareness of the various ways Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) is conceptualized and how it has been applied in wildlife conservation and management. Superintendents, wildlife biologists, ecologists and cultural resource managers, in particular, may find it useful. Definitions and descriptions of TEK are provided, as well as examples of TEK in natural resources research and management, particularly wildlife conservation. Best practices for working with tribes are identified, as provided in published literature from the NPS and other federal agencies and illustrated through a case study. Because of the “special relationship” with American Indians and the legal implications of the trust relationship between tribes and the federal government, park and program managers alike are encouraged to consider the tenets of TEK contained in this document, as well as additional materials that contain information on TEK. TEK is a mixture of knowledge, beliefs, and practices operating in an iterative and holistic system that emerges over time, across generations. TEK has been applied in the management of various flora and fauna species on public lands. While researchers pursuing efforts in the TEK field have used various approaches, the understanding of what TEK is and in which circumstances and how to use it remain unclear. In TEK research efforts pertaining to wildlife, an understanding of the historical and legal context of Indigenous communities in the United States and the wildlife profession is of importance. While many scholars of Indigenous science understand TEK as science, some researchers still maintain the philosophical question of whether it is, indeed, “science.” This uncertainty may lead to inequitable approaches to research with Indigenous communities. Further, it may lead to the question of how TEK may be considered in pursuits of acquiring the best available science for natural resources management. Therefore, it is worth exploring how various groups conceptualize TEK and, perhaps on a case-by-case basis, ask whether it is appropriate to integrate this paradigm in non-tribal management initiatives. In addition, the methods for documenting TEK are derived from the social sciences. Thus, ecologists may prefer to engage social scientists to conduct research. Ecologists should, however, be aware of the methods available and their associated strengths and weaknesses for promoting substantive interchange. TEK can enhance the knowledge base for decision-making about ecosystems, species and their habitats, and provide longitudinal knowledge for climate change projects. In addition, increased attention to tribal worldviews in TEK research could strengthen relationships with tribes over topics of common interest, reduce misunderstandings about tribal natural resource perspectives, and broaden understandings of ethics of wildlife use. However, it cannot be assumed, as many do, that the co-production of TEK in Western-dominated contexts will automatically lead to improved resource management and Indigenous empowerment. To work effectively with tribes, one should be aware of historical, legal, and cultural contexts and be willing to consider multiple knowledge systems as valid. Wildlife managers operating in Western-derived frameworks need to be aware that it is necessary to involve traditional Indigenous stewards of these places and to adopt de-centralized decision-making processes in order to give Indigenous peoples a real say in managing land and wildlife. Lastly, it is important to remember that tribes have the sovereignty to decide whether they wish to share their TEK. One should not assume that National Park Service employees are free to approach any tribe and begin conducting TEK research. Rather, an emphasis should be placed on strengthening relationships with tribes.

Introduction to traditional ecological knowledge in wildlife conservation

Series

Collections