To the Editor:
The climate crisis demands urgent action, and the wisdom of Pacific Northwest Indigenous people offers invaluable guidance. Their deep connection to the land provides powerful models for addressing climate change as their communities have long adapted to environmental changes. The rich Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) of indigenous people encompasses a profound understanding of ecosystems developed through generations of observation.
The Swinomish people, for example, have a deep understanding of shellfish ecology and sustainable harvesting practices. The Makah Tribe of Washington’s Olympic Peninsula has a deep understanding of sustainable whaling as well as marine ecosystems and effective fisheries management. Cultural burns have been an important tool for the Karuk people of the Klamath Mountains in forestry management to promote biodiversity, control invasive species, and improve wildlife habitat. The restoration of salmon habitat has long been a priority of many Pacific Northwest indigenous people and with recent dam removals is increasingly successful.
Critically, Indigenous approaches emphasize community-based adaptation, built on strong social networks and cultural values of respect for nature and intergenerational responsibility. This community-based approach could be important for building our collective resilience.
Integrating TEK with scientific research can be a powerful combination. We must support Indigenous-led initiatives, respect treaty rights, and empower Indigenous communities in climate adaptation and mitigation. Indigenous wisdom is not a relic, but a resource. By learning from their experience and incorporating their knowledge, we can better forge a sustainable future.
Mark Rohde
Snohomish
Citizens Climate Lobby - Snohomish Chapter
