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Mc Cartney AM, Head MA, Tsosie KS, Sterner B, Glass JR, Paez S, Geary J, Hudson M. Indigenous peoples and local communities as partners in the sequencing of global eukaryotic biodiversity. NPJ BIODIVERSITY 2023; 2:8. [PMID: 38693997 PMCID: PMC11062294 DOI: 10.1038/s44185-023-00013-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
The aim to sequence, catalog, and characterize the genomes of all of Earth's eukaryotic biodiversity is the shared mission of many ongoing large-scale biodiversity genomics initiatives. Reference genomes of global flora and fauna have the potential to inform a broad range of major issues facing both biodiversity and humanity, such as the impact of climate change, the conservation of endangered species and ecosystems, public health crises, and the preservation and enhancement of ecosystem services. Biodiversity is dramatically declining: 28% of species being assessed by the IUCN are threatened with extinction, and recent reports suggest that a transformative change is needed to conserve and protect what remains. To provide a collective and global genomic response to the biodiversity crisis, many biodiversity genomics initiatives have come together, creating a network of networks under the Earth BioGenome Project. This network seeks to expedite the creation of an openly available, "public good" encyclopedia of high-quality eukaryotic reference genomes, in the hope that by advancing our basic understanding of nature, it can lead to the transformational scientific developments needed to conserve and protect global biodiversity. Key to completing this ambitious encyclopedia of reference genomes, is the ability to responsibly, ethically, legally, and equitably access and use samples from all of the eukaryotic species across the planet, including those that are under the custodianship of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities. Here, the biodiversity genomics community is subject to the provisions codified in international, national, and local legislations and customary community norms, principles, and protocols. We propose a framework to support biodiversity genomic researchers, projects, and initiatives in building trustworthy and sustainable partnerships with communities, providing minimum recommendations on how to access, utilize, preserve, handle, share, analyze, and communicate samples, genomics data, and associated Traditional Knowledge obtained from, and in partnership with, Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities across the data-lifecycle.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M. A. Head
- Te Kotahi Research Institute, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - K. S. Tsosie
- Native BioData Consortium, Eagle Butte, SD USA
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ USA
| | - B. Sterner
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ USA
| | - J. R. Glass
- Department of Fisheries, College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK USA
| | - S. Paez
- Neurogenetics of Language, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY USA
| | - J. Geary
- School for the Future of Innovation in Society, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ USA
| | - M. Hudson
- Te Kotahi Research Institute, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
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Kassam KS, Bernardo J. Role of Biodiversity in Ecological Calendars and Its Implications for Food Sovereignty: Empirical Assessment of the Resilience of Indicator Species to Anthropogenic Climate Change. GEOHEALTH 2022; 6:e2022GH000614. [PMID: 36267339 PMCID: PMC9578541 DOI: 10.1029/2022gh000614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Ecological calendars are knowledge systems based on close observation of one's habitat to measure and give meaning to time, thereby providing anticipatory capacity for livelihood activities and contributing to food sovereignty. They rely upon seasonal indicators that integrate biophysical and ecological phenomena (e.g., first snowfall, last frost, blossoming of a tree species; seasonal appearance of an animal or plant) with locally grounded cultural meaning and value systems. These context-specific relationships have enabled Indigenous and rural societies to anticipate weather and other seasonal processes in their environment. However, anthropogenic climate change could undermine ecological calendars due to adverse impacts on specific indicators species, but this issue remains unexplored. We address this knowledge gap by examining how anthropogenic climate change might affect selected species (birds, fish, and mammals) that are seasonal and key to Indigenous food systems in two Western Arctic communities. We leverage existing dietary animal datasets to which we apply a novel methodology for assessing organismal vulnerability to climate change. The methodology uses intrinsic species traits such as physiological tolerances, genetic variability, and life history traits to generate an empirical and integrative assessment of vulnerability for any given species. Subsequently, an aggregate view of vulnerability across calendar species is achieved through comparative statistical analysis across species both within and between communities. This exercise permits the first quantitative assessment of the continued relevance and effective use of an ecological calendar, thus demonstrating that food sovereignty and livelihood security is enhanced by biodiversity of indicator species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim‐Aly S. Kassam
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment and American Indian and Indigenous Studies ProgramCornell UniversityIthacaNYUSA
| | - Joseph Bernardo
- Department of BiologyTexas A&M UniversityCollege StationTXUSA
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3
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Maclean K, Greenaway A, Grünbühel C. Developing methods of knowledge co-production across varying contexts to shape Sustainability Science theory and practice. SUSTAINABILITY SCIENCE 2022; 17:325-332. [PMID: 35194465 PMCID: PMC8853104 DOI: 10.1007/s11625-022-01103-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
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4
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Mazor RD, Topping BJ, Nadeau TL, Fritz KM, Kelso JE, Harrington RA, Beck WS, McCune KS, Allen AO, Leidy R, Robb JT, David GCL. Implementing an Operational Framework to Develop a Streamflow Duration Assessment Method: A Case Study from the Arid West United States. WATER 2021; 13:1-40. [PMID: 34976403 PMCID: PMC8715911 DOI: 10.3390/w13223310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Streamflow duration information underpins many management decisions. However, hydrologic data are rarely available where needed. Rapid streamflow duration assessment methods (SDAMs) classify reaches based on indicators that are measured in a single brief visit. We evaluated a proposed framework for developing SDAMs to develop an SDAM for the Arid West United States that can classify reaches as perennial, intermittent, or ephemeral. We identified 41 candidate biological, geomorphological, and hydrological indicators of streamflow duration in a literature review, evaluated them for a number of desirable criteria (e.g., defensibility and consistency), and measured 21 of them at 89 reaches with known flow durations. We selected metrics for the SDAM based on their ability to discriminate among flow duration classes in analyses of variance, as well as their importance in a random forest model to predict streamflow duration. This approach resulted in a "beta" SDAM that uses five biological indicators. It could discriminate between ephemeral and non-ephemeral reaches with 81% accuracy, but only 56% accuracy when distinguishing 3 classes. A final method will be developed following expanded data collection. This Arid West study demonstrates the effectiveness of our approach and paves the way for more efficient development of scientifically informed SDAMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphael D. Mazor
- Southern California Coastal Water Research Project, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, USA
| | - Brian J. Topping
- Office of Wetlands, Oceans, and Watersheds, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC 20460, USA
| | - Tracie-Lynn Nadeau
- Region 10, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Portland, OR 97205, USA
| | - Ken M. Fritz
- Center for Environmental Measurement and Modeling, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH 45268, USA
| | - Julia E. Kelso
- Office of Wetlands, Oceans, and Watersheds, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC 20460, USA
- Oak Ridge Institute of Science and Education (ORISE) Fellow, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
| | | | - Whitney S. Beck
- Office of Wetlands, Oceans, and Watersheds, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC 20460, USA
| | - Kenneth S. McCune
- Southern California Coastal Water Research Project, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, USA
| | - Aaron O. Allen
- Los Angeles District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Los Angeles, CA 90017, USA
| | - Robert Leidy
- Region 9, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA
| | - James T. Robb
- Sacramento District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA
| | - Gabrielle C. L. David
- Engineer Research and Development Center Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
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Lim VC, Justine EV, Yusof K, Wan Mohamad Ariffin WNS, Goh HC, Fadzil KS. Eliciting local knowledge of ecosystem services using participatory mapping and Photovoice: A case study of Tun Mustapha Park, Malaysia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253740. [PMID: 34242233 PMCID: PMC8270451 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Protected areas in Malaysia have always been managed using top-down approach that often exclude the local communities, who are the main users of ecosystem services, from the planning and management. However, a newly established multiple-use marine park in Malaysia, Tun Mustapha Park (TMP), aims for inclusivity in managing the park. This research explores different participatory approaches (i.e. participatory mapping and Photovoice) to understand the ecosystem services and the dynamics surrounding the services in TMP. Community-based organisations and a mariculture farm in TMP were invited to participate in this work. The participants mapped the ecosystem services and provided in-depth qualitative data that supported the maps, besides highlighting ecological, sociocultural and economic issues surrounding the ecosystem services. Furthermore, the participants provided suggestions and recommendations that carry political effects. Therefore, the participatory approaches employed here had provided rich visual and spatial data to enhance the ecosystem-based management of TMP besides empowering the participants to voice out for their communities. The results generated from this work were also further utilised to fill in the gaps of knowledge in a separate ecosystem service assessment matrix. However, the output from participatory approaches should not be considered as the ultimate outcome but rather as supplement to the planning and management of TMP due to potential human errors and biases. Although the participatory approaches came with limitations and challenges that may have affected the findings here, these nonetheless had provided support to the capability of local communities to provide information crucial for management of protected areas as well as room for improvement for further work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Voon-Ching Lim
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia
- * E-mail:
| | - Eva Vivian Justine
- Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Kudat Turtle Conservation Society, Kudat, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Kamila Yusof
- Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Hong Ching Goh
- Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Centre For Sustainable Urban Planning & Real Estate (SUPRE), Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kamal Solhaimi Fadzil
- Department of Anthropology and Sociology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Centre for Malaysian Indigenous Studies, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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6
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Hammer MP, Taillebois L, King AJ, Crook DA, Wedd D, Adams M, Unmack PJ, Hoese DF, Bertozzi T. Unravelling the taxonomy and identification of a problematic group of benthic fishes from tropical rivers (Gobiidae: Glossogobius). JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2021; 99:87-100. [PMID: 33583039 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.14701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Flathead gobies (genus Glossogobius) include c. 40 small- to medium-sized benthic fishes found primarily in freshwater habitats across the Indo-Pacific, having biodiversity value as well as cultural and economic value as food fishes, especially in developing countries. To help resolve considerable confusion regarding the identification of some of the larger-growing Glossogobius species, a systematic framework was established using nuclear genetic markers, mitochondrial DNA barcoding and phenotypic evidence for a geographically widespread collection of individuals from the waterways of tropical northern Australia. Species boundaries and distribution patterns were discordant with those previously reported, most notably for the tank goby Glossogobius giuris, which included a cryptic species. Genetic divergence was matched with accompanying unique visual characters that aid field identification. Additional taxonomic complexity was also evident, by comparison with DNA barcodes from international locations, suggesting that the specific names applicable for two of the candidate species in Australia remain unresolved due to confusion surrounding type specimens. Although flathead gobies are assumed to be widespread and common, this study demonstrates that unrealised taxonomic and ecological complexity is evident, and this will influence assessments of tropical biodiversity and species conservation. This study supports the need for taxonomic studies of freshwater fishes to underpin management in areas subject to significant environmental change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Hammer
- Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Laura Taillebois
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Alison J King
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - David A Crook
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Dion Wedd
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Mark Adams
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Evolutionary Biology Unit, South Australian Museum, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Peter J Unmack
- Centre of Applied Water Science, Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Doug F Hoese
- Australian Museum, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Terry Bertozzi
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Evolutionary Biology Unit, South Australian Museum, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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McKemey MB, Ens EJ, Hunter JT, Ridges M, Costello O, Reid NCH. Co‐producing a fire and seasons calendar to support renewed Indigenous cultural fire management. AUSTRAL ECOL 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/aec.13034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle B. McKemey
- Ecosystem Management School of Environmental and Rural Science University of New England Armidale New South Wales 2351Australia
| | - Emilie J. Ens
- Department of Environmental Sciences Macquarie University Sydney New South WalesAustralia
| | - John T. Hunter
- Ecosystem Management School of Environmental and Rural Science University of New England Armidale New South Wales 2351Australia
| | - Malcolm Ridges
- Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (NSW) University of New England Armidale New South WalesAustralia
| | - Oliver Costello
- Firesticks Alliance Indigenous Corporation Rosebank New South Wales Australia
| | - Nick C. H. Reid
- Ecosystem Management School of Environmental and Rural Science University of New England Armidale New South Wales 2351Australia
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Kassam KA, Ruelle M, Haag I, Bulbulshoev U, Kaziev D, Louis L, Ullmann A, Edwards I, Khan AA, Trabucco A, Samimi C. Engaging Transformation: Using Seasonal Rounds to Anticipate Climate Change. HUMAN ECOLOGY: AN INTERDISCIPLINARY JOURNAL 2021; 49:509-523. [PMID: 34602701 PMCID: PMC8479261 DOI: 10.1007/s10745-021-00269-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Seasonal rounds are deliberative articulations of a community's sociocultural relations with their ecological system. The process of visualizing seasonal rounds informs transdisciplinary research. We present a methodological approach for communities of enquiry to engage communities of practice through context-specific sociocultural and ecological relations driven by seasonal change. We first discuss historical précis of the concept of seasonal rounds that we apply to assess the spatial and temporal communal migrations and then describe current international research among Indigenous and rural communities in North America and Central Asia by the creation of a common vocabulary through mutual respect for multiple ways of knowing, validation of co-generated knowledge, and insights into seasonal change. By investigating the relationship between specific biophysical indicators and livelihoods of local communities, we demonstrate that seasonal rounds are an inclusive and participatory methodology that brings together diverse Indigenous and rural voices to anticipate anthropogenic climate change. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10745-021-00269-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim-Aly Kassam
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY USA
- American Indian and Indigenous Studies Program, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY USA
| | - Morgan Ruelle
- Department of International Development, Clark University, Community & Environment, Worcester, MA USA
| | - Isabell Haag
- Department of Geography, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Umed Bulbulshoev
- School of Professional & Continuing Education, University of Central Asia, Khorog, Tajikistan
| | - Daler Kaziev
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY USA
| | - Leo Louis
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY USA
| | - Anna Ullmann
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY USA
| | - Iriel Edwards
- Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY USA
| | - Aziz Ali Khan
- Mountains Societies Research Institute, University of Central Asia, Khorog, Tajikistan
| | - Antonio Trabucco
- Impacts On Agriculture, Forests and Ecosystem Services Division, , CMCC Foundation—Euro-Mediterranean Centre on Climate Change, Sassari, Italy
| | - Cyrus Samimi
- Department of Geography, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
- Center of Ecology and Environmental Research, Bayreuth, Germany
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Milgin A, Nardea L, Grey H, Laborde S, Jackson S. Sustainability crises are crises of relationship: Learning from Nyikina ecology and ethics. PEOPLE AND NATURE 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.10149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Annie Milgin
- Walalakoo Aboriginal Corporation Derby WA Australia
| | - Linda Nardea
- Walalakoo Aboriginal Corporation Derby WA Australia
| | - Hilda Grey
- Walalakoo Aboriginal Corporation Derby WA Australia
| | - Sarah Laborde
- Australian Rivers InstituteGriffith University Nathan Qld Australia
| | - Sue Jackson
- Australian Rivers InstituteGriffith University Nathan Qld Australia
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10
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Faast R, Clarke PA, Taylor GS, Salagaras RL, Weinstein P. Indigenous Use of Lerps in Australia: So Much More Than a Sweet Treat. J ETHNOBIOL 2020. [DOI: 10.2993/0278-0771-40.3.328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Renate Faast
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | | | - Gary S. Taylor
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Renée L. Salagaras
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Philip Weinstein
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
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11
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Indigenous Knowledge and Seasonal Calendar Inform Adaptive Savanna Burning in Northern Australia. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12030995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Indigenous fire management is experiencing a resurgence worldwide. Northern Australia is the world leader in Indigenous savanna burning, delivering social, cultural, environmental and economic benefits. In 2016, a greenhouse gas abatement fire program commenced in the savannas of south-eastern Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory, managed by the Indigenous Yugul Mangi rangers. We undertook participatory action research and semi-structured interviews with rangers and Elders during 2016 and 2019 to investigate Indigenous knowledge and obtain local feedback about fire management. Results indicated that Indigenous rangers effectively use cross-cultural science (including local and Traditional Ecological Knowledge alongside western science) to manage fire. Fire management is a key driver in the production of bush tucker (wild food) resources and impacts other cultural and ecological values. A need for increased education and awareness about Indigenous burning was consistently emphasized. To address this, the project participants developed the Yugul Mangi Faiya En Sisen Kelenda (Yugul Mangi Fire and Seasons Calendar) that drew on Indigenous knowledge of seasonal biocultural indicators to guide the rangers’ fire management planning. The calendar has potential for application in fire management planning, intergenerational transfer of Indigenous knowledge and locally driven adaptive fire management.
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Woodward E, Marrfurra McTaggart P. Co-developing Indigenous seasonal calendars to support ‘healthy Country, healthy people’ outcomes. Glob Health Promot 2019; 26:26-34. [DOI: 10.1177/1757975919832241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In caring for Country, Indigenous Australians draw on laws, knowledge and customs that have been inherited from ancestors and ancestral beings, to ensure the continued health of lands and seas with which they have a traditional attachment or relationship. This is a reciprocal relationship, whereby land is understood to become wild/sick if not managed by its people, and in turn individuals and communities suffer without a maintained connection to Country. It is well understood by Indigenous people that if you ‘look after country, country will look after you’. Indigenous knowledge systems that underpin the local care (including use and management) of Country are both unique and complex. These knowledge systems have been built through strong observational, practice-based methods that continue to be enacted and tested, and have sustained consecutive generations by adapting continually, if incrementally, to the local context over time. This paper describes a research partnership that involved the sharing and teaching of Ngan’gi Aboriginal ecological knowledge in order to reveal and promote the complex attachment of Ngan’gi language speakers of the Daly River, Australia, to water places. This engagement further led to the incremental co-development of an Indigenous seasonal calendar of aquatic resource use. The seasonal calendar emerged as an effective tool for supporting healthy Country, healthy people outcomes. It did this by facilitating the communication of resource management knowledge and connection with water-dependent ecosystems both inter-generationally within the Ngan’gi language group, as well as externally to non-Indigenous government water resource managers. The Indigenous seasonal calendar form has subsequently emerged as a tool Indigenous language groups are independently engaging with to document and communicate their own knowledge and understanding of Country, to build recognition and respect for their knowledge, and to make it accessible to future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Woodward
- Research Scientist, CSIRO – Land and Water, Wembley, Australia
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13
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Kassam KAS, Ruelle ML, Samimi C, Trabucco A, Xu J. Anticipating Climatic Variability: The Potential of Ecological Calendars. HUMAN ECOLOGY: AN INTERDISCIPLINARY JOURNAL 2018; 46:249-257. [PMID: 29681679 PMCID: PMC5906504 DOI: 10.1007/s10745-018-9970-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Karim-Aly S. Kassam
- Department of Natural Resources and the American Indian and Indigenous Studies Program, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY USA
| | - Morgan L. Ruelle
- Department of Natural Resources and the American Indian and Indigenous Studies Program, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY USA
| | - Cyrus Samimi
- Department of Geography, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Antonio Trabucco
- Impacts on Agriculture, Forests and Ecosystem Services Division, Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change, Sassari, Italy
| | - Jianchu Xu
- Center for Mountain Ecosystem Studies, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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14
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Biocultural approaches to well-being and sustainability indicators across scales. Nat Ecol Evol 2017; 1:1798-1806. [DOI: 10.1038/s41559-017-0349-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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15
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Orchard SE, Stringer LC, Manyatsi AM. Farmer Perceptions and Responses to Soil Degradation in Swaziland. LAND DEGRADATION & DEVELOPMENT 2017; 28:46-56. [PMID: 30393450 PMCID: PMC6199004 DOI: 10.1002/ldr.2595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2016] [Revised: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Soil degradation is globally concerning due to its adverse effects on the environment and agricultural production. Much of Swaziland is at risk from degradation. This paper assesses farmer perceptions and responses to soil degradation in 2002 and 2014, focusing on two land uses that underpin rural livelihoods: arable land and rangeland areas. It uses repeat household surveys and semi-structured interviews, in two case study chiefdoms in the country's middleveld (KaBhudla and Engcayini) in the first longitudinal study of its kind. We find that observations of land degradation are perceived mainly through changes in land productivity, with chemical degradation occurring predominantly on arable land and physical degradation and erosion mainly in rangeland areas. Changes in rainfall are particularly important in determining responses. While perceptions of the causes and impacts of degradation largely concur with the scientific literature, responses were constrained by poor land availability, shorter and more unpredictable cropping seasons because of changing rains and low awareness, access to or knowledge of agricultural inputs. We suggest that sustainable arable land management can be enhanced through improved access to alternative sources of water, use of management practices that retain soil and moisture and greater access to agricultural inputs and capacity building to ensure their appropriate use. We suggest collaborative management for settlement planning that integrates soil conservation and livestock management strategies such as controlled stocking levels and rotational grazing could improve land quality in rangeland areas. Together, these approaches can help land users to better manage change. © 2016 The Authors. Land Degradation & Development published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven E. Orchard
- Sustainability Research Institute (SRI), School of Earth and EnvironmentUniversity of LeedsLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - Lindsay C. Stringer
- Sustainability Research Institute (SRI), School of Earth and EnvironmentUniversity of LeedsLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - Absalom M. Manyatsi
- Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Department, Faculty of AgricultureUniversity of SwazilandLuyengoM205Swaziland
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16
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Davis J, O'Grady AP, Dale A, Arthington AH, Gell PA, Driver PD, Bond N, Casanova M, Finlayson M, Watts RJ, Capon SJ, Nagelkerken I, Tingley R, Fry B, Page TJ, Specht A. When trends intersect: The challenge of protecting freshwater ecosystems under multiple land use and hydrological intensification scenarios. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2015; 534:65-78. [PMID: 25864797 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2015.03.127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2014] [Revised: 03/25/2015] [Accepted: 03/29/2015] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Intensification of the use of natural resources is a world-wide trend driven by the increasing demand for water, food, fibre, minerals and energy. These demands are the result of a rising world population, increasing wealth and greater global focus on economic growth. Land use intensification, together with climate change, is also driving intensification of the global hydrological cycle. Both processes will have major socio-economic and ecological implications for global water availability. In this paper we focus on the implications of land use intensification for the conservation and management of freshwater ecosystems using Australia as an example. We consider this in the light of intensification of the hydrologic cycle due to climate change, and associated hydrological scenarios that include the occurrence of more intense hydrological events (extreme storms, larger floods and longer droughts). We highlight the importance of managing water quality, the value of providing environmental flows within a watershed framework and the critical role that innovative science and adaptive management must play in developing proactive and robust responses to intensification. We also suggest research priorities to support improved systemic governance, including adaptation planning and management to maximise freshwater biodiversity outcomes while supporting the socio-economic objectives driving land use intensification. Further research priorities include: i) determining the relative contributions of surface water and groundwater in supporting freshwater ecosystems; ii) identifying and protecting freshwater biodiversity hotspots and refugia; iii) improving our capacity to model hydro-ecological relationships and predict ecological outcomes from land use intensification and climate change; iv) developing an understanding of long term ecosystem behaviour; and v) exploring systemic approaches to enhancing governance systems, including planning and management systems affecting freshwater outcomes. A major policy challenge will be the integration of land and water management, which increasingly are being considered within different policy frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Davis
- Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT 2617, Australia.
| | | | - Allan Dale
- The Cairns Institute, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4871, Australia
| | - Angela H Arthington
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Peter A Gell
- Federation University Australia, Water Research Network, Mt Helen, VIC 3353, Australia
| | - Patrick D Driver
- Office of Water, NSW Department of Primary Industries, Orange, NSW 2800, Australia; Centre for Ecosystem Science, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Nick Bond
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Michelle Casanova
- Federation University Australia, Water Research Network, Mt Helen, VIC 3353, Australia
| | - Max Finlayson
- Institute for Land, Water and Society, Charles Sturt University, Albury-Wodonga, NSW 2640, Australia
| | - Robyn J Watts
- Institute for Land, Water and Society, Charles Sturt University, Albury-Wodonga, NSW 2640, Australia
| | - Samantha J Capon
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Ivan Nagelkerken
- School of Biological Sciences and The Environment Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Reid Tingley
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Brian Fry
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Timothy J Page
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Alison Specht
- ACEAS, Australian Centre for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis, a facility of the Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4067, Australia
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Russell S, Sullivan CA, Reichelt-Brushett AJ. Aboriginal Consumption of Estuarine Food Resources and Potential Implications for Health through Trace Metal Exposure; A Study in Gumbaynggirr Country, Australia. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0130689. [PMID: 26098897 PMCID: PMC4476661 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0130689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 05/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Fishing and resource use continues to be an essential aspect of life for many Aboriginal communities throughout Australia. It is important for dietary sustenance, and also retains deep social, cultural and economic significance, playing a fundamental role in maintaining group cohesion, transferring cultural knowledge and affirming Indigenous identities. We surveyed approximately 20% of the Gumbaynggirr Aboriginal community of Nambucca Heads, New South Wales, Australia. This paper explores Gumbaynggirr Connection to Country and engagement in cultural practice. It quantifies fishing efforts and consumption of seafood within the community. We found 95% of the sample group fish, with the highest rate of fishing being 2-3 times a week (27%). Furthermore, 98% of participants eat seafood weekly or more frequently, up to more than once a day (24%). Survey results revealed that Myxus elongatus (Sand mullet) and naturally recruited Saccostrea glomerata (Sydney rock oysters) continue to be important wild resources to the Gumbaynggirr community. Trace metals were measured in M. elongatus and S. glomerata samples collected by community participants in this study. Maximum levels prescribed in the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code were not exceeded in the edible tissue for either species, however both species exceeded the generally expected levels for zinc and copper and S. glomerata samples exceeded the generally expected level for selenium. Furthermore the average dietary exposure to trace metals from consuming seafood was calculated for the surveyed population. Trace metal intake was then compared to the provisional tolerable weekly intake prescribed by the Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives. This process revealed that copper and selenium intake were both within the provisional tolerable weekly intake, while there is no guideline for zinc. Furthermore, participants relying heavily on wild resources from the Nambucca River estuary may exceed the provisional tolerable weekly intake for cadmium. This suggests the need for further investigation of this issue to minimize any possible health risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaina Russell
- School of Environment, Science and Engineering and Marine Ecology Research Centre Southern Cross University, Lismore, Australia
| | - Caroline A. Sullivan
- School of Environment, Science and Engineering and Marine Ecology Research Centre Southern Cross University, Lismore, Australia
| | - Amanda J. Reichelt-Brushett
- School of Environment, Science and Engineering and Marine Ecology Research Centre Southern Cross University, Lismore, Australia
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Ecosystem-Based Adaptation for Food Security in the AIMS SIDS: Integrating External and Local Knowledge. SUSTAINABILITY 2014. [DOI: 10.3390/su6095566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Sieber SS, da Silva TC, Campos LZDO, Zank S, Albuquerque UP. Participatory Methods in Ethnobiological and Ethnoecological Research. SPRINGER PROTOCOLS HANDBOOKS 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-8636-7_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
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20
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Ecosystem-Based Adaptation to Climate Change in Caribbean Small Island Developing States: Integrating Local and External Knowledge. SUSTAINABILITY 2012. [DOI: 10.3390/su4081908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Ens EJ, Finlayson M, Preuss K, Jackson S, Holcombe S. Australian approaches for managing ‘country’ using Indigenous and non-Indigenous knowledge. ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT & RESTORATION 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-8903.2011.00634.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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