Case Study: Traditional Ecological Knowledge Working Group – Co-Creating Vegetation Management in a Good Way
Overview
As part of a multi-year flood mitigation project a major utility company and Forum Community Relations established a Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) Working Group to guide the creation of a Vegetation Management Plan (VMP). What set this process apart was its timing, intent, and structure: the group was formed before any western science-based plans had been drafted, ensuring that Indigenous knowledge systems would guide—not just inform—the plan’s foundation.
Wise Practices in Action
Nation-Led Participation: Rather than issuing open invitations, the company asked Indigenous Nations to identify knowledge holders from their own communities who had both experience contributing to TEK processes and deep ecological knowledge of the vegetation in the area. Seven Nations appointed respected individuals who formed the core working group.
Relationship First: The group’s first gathering focused entirely on building trust and relationship, following proper protocol to respectfully engage the knowledge holders. Shared principles for how the group would work together were developed collectively at this meeting and guided the entire three-year process.
Consistent, In-Person Dialogue: Although initially envisioned as a short-term advisory process (3–4 meetings over 9 months), the TEK Working Group met nearly 10 times over three years, always in person at the request of the group. Maintaining continuity with the same knowledge holders was key to building mutual respect—among Nations and between the group and the company.
Navigating Diverse Teachings with Respect
One example of the group’s integrity and consensus-building came through the discussion on whether sweetgrass should be included in the seed list for revegetation. Some knowledge holders felt it was important to reintroduce this sacred medicine into urban spaces where it’s become rare and difficult to access. Others believed sweetgrass should only appear where it chooses to grow, and that planting it would go against its natural role.
The group navigated this complex conversation with tact, cultural sensitivity, and mutual respect, ultimately deciding not to source sweetgrass seeds. The consensus reflected a shared value of allowing natural processes to unfold in accordance with Indigenous teachings.
Outcome
The resulting draft Vegetation Management Plan is not only scientifically robust but has been grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing—rooted in ceremony, guided by shared principles, and shaped through ongoing, respectful dialogue. The TEK Working Group has become a model for how Indigenous knowledge can lead urban ecological planning when approached with humility, integrity, and a long-term commitment to relationships and respect for diversity of Indigenous Nations and teachings.
Categories: Indigenous inclusion, Indigenous engagement, Traditional Ecological Knowledge, Indigenous Ways of Knowing, reconciliation
