Date of Graduation
Spring 5-15-2020
Document Access
Project/Capstone - Global access
Degree Name
Master of Science in Environmental Management (MSEM)
College/School
College of Arts and Sciences
Department/Program
Environmental Management
First Advisor
Amalia Kokkinaki
Second Advisor
Stephanie A Siehr
Third Advisor
Sindy Vela
Abstract
Wildfires are currently ravaging California, destroying the land and the livelihood of many vulnerable communities. This research explores the value of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) as a tool to aid in the fight against wildfires. Revitalization of Native American culture and traditional practices, such as prescribed burns, can transform current fire management practices. This research examined the connections among three aspects of fire management: Native American TEK, non-native ecological field studies and modelling, and current government fire policies and management practices. Through primary interviews and case studies, this research found that the Native American communities in the West have a wealth of knowledge on fire management. A key challenge is how to help non-native scientists understand and quantify place-specific TEK so it can be implemented in today's practices. Barriers such as fire suppression, human encroachment in the wildland-urban interface, and restrictions in state and federal regulations make it difficult for tribes to perform their time-tested practices. Increased trust between non-native scientists and native scientists is needed to implement their TEK, and collaboration is needed to develop new fire management strategies for resilience in man-made climate disruption.
Recommended Citation
Mishima, Christopher, "A Comprehensive Look at the Benefits of Traditional Ecological Knowledge of Native American Indigenous Communities for Fire Management Practices in Northern California" (2020). Master's Projects and Capstones. 1017.
https://repository.usfca.edu/capstone/1017
