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 in Edmonton’s river valley, EPCOR 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, EPCOR 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 EPCOR.
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 Vegetation Management Plan was not only scientifically robust but was 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
Services page link: Consulting
Case Study: Art & Interpretive Element Review Panel – Collaborating Across Perspectives
Overview
In support of EPCOR’s flood mitigation project at the Rossdale Water Treatment Plant, a one-year Art & Interpretive Element Review Panel was formed to shape the public art and storytelling features of the project. What made this process unique was its intentional blend of Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members, brought together to reach a consensus-based recommendation—a level of collaboration rarely achieved in large infrastructure projects.
A Grounded and Inclusive Process
Rather than prioritizing resumes or affiliations, panelists were chosen for the perspectives they could bring and their openness to learn from others. Indigenous Nations with traditional ties to the area nominated community members, while other panelists were selected through a public call, with intentional outreach to youth, seniors, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, equity-deserving groups, and Rossdale residents.
The group began by building relationships and trust, setting shared expectations for how they would work together. These included commitments to patience, curiosity, active listening, and working toward consensus with respect and care.
Navigating Challenges with Integrity
While the panel itself remained consistent throughout the year, organizational personnel changes introduced some challenges. New staff unfamiliar with the panel’s history occasionally caused confusion or inefficiencies, contributing to a delay of a couple of months. However, the shared values and strong foundation established early on kept the process on track.
Meaningful Outcomes
The panel’s final recommendation—endorsed by EPCOR—was the result of true collaboration. Though EPCOR retained final decision-making authority, they chose to accept the panel’s consensus recommendation, demonstrating a high degree of trust and respect. The decision reflects a richer outcome, shaped by diverse lived experiences and cultural worldviews.
This was the first time in the multi-year project that Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members were engaged together. Rather than creating division, this diversity led to a more thoughtful, inclusive outcome—one in which participants were motivated not only to share their views, but to ensure others’ interests were reflected too.
