The new Bachelor of Indigenous Land Stewardship is a groundbreaking undergraduate program that emphasizes the vital integration of Indigenous science into land stewardship. By fostering a deeper understanding of sustainable and respectful resource management, the program is helping pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for both Indigenous communities and the global landscape. We had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Garry Merkel (nadi’ denezā), a Tahltan professional forester and the director of the Centre for Indigenous Land Stewardship at UBC Forestry, to discuss his background, his work, and the vision for this innovative program.
Can you share a bit about your background and what led you to UBC Forestry?
By trade I am a professional forester but, like many professional members of the Indigenous community, I have a wide-ranging set of experiences including community planning and development, treaty negotiations, governance development, business development and management, education, housing and infrastructure, and various intergovernmental agreements in various fields. I began by building forest cover maps for the Yukon and Northwest Territories, which sparked an interest in resource management. Then I decided to pursue formal education, earning a technologist diploma and later a degree. Before becoming so deeply involved in academia, I served as a senior analyst for timber and economic analysis. Later, I took on the role of regional forester for Indian Affairs in British Columbia. My involvement with UBC initially started through collaborative projects aimed at increasing the number of Indigenous resource management professionals. Over time, we created the Centre for Indigenous Land Stewardship and the new Bachelor of Indigenous Land Stewardship, with me as the director.
What is your vision for the Bachelor of Indigenous Land Stewardship?
The Bachelor of Indigenous Land Stewardship program is dedicated to exploring how earth-based or Indigenous communities translate their deeply held land ethic into practical and effective land management systems. This encompasses various aspects, including physical planning, innovative governance models, active community involvement, and unique economic systems tailored to these communities. The overarching goal is to integrate Indigenous land ethics and other land stewardship approaches, with the aim of making this blended approach a commonly accepted and broadly used practice by 2050. To achieve this ambitious vision, the Centre for Indigenous Land Stewardship at UBC Forestry is committed to building a strong network of people and continuously staying on top of emerging ideas, fostering a movement that promotes sustainable and respectful land stewardship practices worldwide.
What are some of the challenges in promoting Indigenous land stewardship?
One of the most significant challenges in promoting Indigenous land stewardship is overcoming the pervasive perception that Indigenous approaches are mere “fairy tale folklore” rather than legitimate, evidence-based science. This leads them to dismiss the refined discipline, accumulated knowledge, and time-tested practices deeply embedded in Indigenous approaches. This bias is often rooted in a systemic devaluing of non-Indigenous science, stemming from deep-seated insecurities and a lack of understanding of different knowledge systems. Addressing this challenge requires a concerted effort to educate and demonstrate the rigor and effectiveness of Indigenous land stewardship practices, fostering a more inclusive and holistic understanding of science and land management.
What advice would you give to young professionals interested in resource management and community development?
For young professionals venturing into resource management and community development, it’s essential to prioritize helping communities envision and shape their own futures on their own terms. Personal development is key, requiring an openness to having your worldview challenged and a commitment to staying humble throughout your career. Recognize the inherent capabilities and value the unique ways of thinking within Indigenous communities. It is important to stop believing the misconception that Indigenous people are not as capable as others, and instead, embrace the strength and wisdom that comes from diverse perspectives. Finally, learn to deal with your personal anger, blame, or guilt, as these emotions can hinder progress and prevent you from effectively contributing to positive change.
How is the Bachelor of Indigenous Land Stewardship program going so far?
The Bachelor of Indigenous Land Stewardship program is off to a promising start, with its first cohort now actively engaged in the curriculum plus more applicants than available spaces for next year’s cohort. The program is specifically designed to provide students with the best tools and knowledge to build essential land stewardship infrastructure within their communities, empowering them to lead and sustain these initiatives. A key aspect of the program is fostering an environment where everyone can thrive, supporting individuals within a holistic community context. By focusing on community wellness and comprehensive approaches, the program aims to equip students with the knowledge and the personal skills and perspectives needed to create lasting, positive impacts in their respective communities.
What impact do you think the Bachelor of Indigenous Land Stewardship program will have on resource management and community development?
The growing recognition and demand for the skills and knowledge being cultivated within the Bachelor of Indigenous Land Stewardship program highlights a significant shift in the field. The world is increasingly recognizing the value of what the program is building, and the more proficient students become, the greater their potential to contribute to meaningful change. The program is not just an academic exercise but a vital initiative that equips individuals with the tools and perspectives needed to address pressing issues in resource management and community development. By fostering a deep understanding of Indigenous knowledge and practices, the program is paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable future, where the contributions of its graduates will be highly valued and sought after.
Learn more about the Bachelor of Indigenous Land Stewardship.