Traditional Knowledge: A Blueprint for Change

This project is set in the Inuit community of Northwest River, Labrador and will focus on current and historic Inuit land and resource use of the region. In involves training local Inuit youth to collect and document traditional knowledge on the location, importance and threats to fresh water, sea ice, sensitive habitats and species; and the development of that knowledge into various media formats (including a GIS database). Data collection will rely on community meetings, surveys, individual interviews, and mapping. Video and audio records of the research will be maintained and archived. The results of the project will be used to direct future research, both traditional and scientific; and will assist Sivunivut in the development of a local climate change adaption plan. It will also be available for others to use in local, regional and national climate change and cultural education and research.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dr. Keith Chaulk

Student:

Scott Neilsen

Partner:

Nunatsiavut Government

Discipline:

Biology

Sector:

Fisheries and wildlife

University:

Memorial University of Newfoundland