Traditional Ecological Knowledge

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Traditional Ecological Knowledge is a body of knowledge, practices, and beliefs about the purposeful relationships between living organisms and their environment. Developed over countless generations by Kizh peoples through direct interaction with the land, waters, plants, animals, and cycles of nature, it nurtures a deep, respectful, and reciprocal relationship with the Earth, honoring the sacred gifts of the Great Creator.

 

Traditional Ecological Knowledge is holistic (integrating spiritual, cultural, and scientific understandings of ecosystems), place-based (rooted in long-term observation and experience within the Los Angeles Basin landscapes and Channel Island seascapes), dynamic (evolving with changing environmental conditions, while maintaining core principles of stewardship and balance), and intergenerational (passed down through Kizh oral traditions, storytelling, ceremony, and hands-on practice).  Rather than seeing humans as separate from nature, traditional ecological knowledge emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life and the responsibilities humans have to maintain harmony with the natural systems provided to us by the Great Creator. These providential gifts from the natural world are entrusted to us, not simply given, so proper care and mindful stewardship is the responsibility we carry to honor and sustain them for all future generations.

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How LINKS uses traditional ecological knowledge in environmental projects

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At LINKS, we center Traditional Ecological Knowledge as the foundation of all our research, restoration, and education initiatives. Our approach is guided by Kizh protocols, cultural values, and the understanding that healing the Earth and healing our tribal communities are inseparable.  We work directly with Tribal Governments, Indigenous researchers, Indigenous knowledge holders, elders, youth, and local community leaders to guide community science and research projects. Their expertise informs site selection, restoration methods, monitoring strategies, and long-term stewardship plans within Kizh traditional territory.  LINKS integrates traditional land management practices, such as seasonal tending, selective harvesting, and, promotes cultural burning to restore ecosystem health, reduce wildfire risks, and increase biodiversity.  Our restoration projects prioritize culturally significant native plants. We collect, grow, and replant native species through traditional seed stewardship methods that respect the sacred relationships between people and plants.  We create spaces for elders, knowledge keepers, and youth to come together. Through workshops, field days, and storytelling, LINKS helps ensure traditional ecological knowledge continues to thrive in future generations. All LINKS research follows Indigenous research methodologies, respecting intellectual sovereignty, consent, and benefit-sharing principles. We honor the rightful ownership of Indigenous knowledge by Indigenous communities.  LINKS educates broader audiences about traditional ecological knowledge's importance in addressing today’s environmental challenges within the Los Angeles Basin and Channel Islands. Through public talks, educational materials, and exhibitions, we uplift Indigenous voices and perspectives in science and conservation.

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At LINKS, we believe that Traditional Ecological Knowledge is not just a historical relic — it is a living, adaptive, and essential guide for building a sustainable and just future.  

Respect.  Reciprocity.  Responsibility.  Renewal.