Two Weeks Left to Participate: Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge Research on Woodland Caribou in Newfoundland

Posted by Qalipu on
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Pictured here are researchers Mary Elsa Young and Madonna Louvelle at work in Qalipu’s Stephenville office along with interviewee Rodney Bennett. Rodney is one of many members of the Band who are contributing their knowledge of woodland caribou species. Rodney is also one of Qalipu’s River Guardians.

The purpose of the Woodland Caribou Study according to Melissa Brake, Project Manager,  is to “formally collect and document Traditional Knowledge on the woodland caribou species including such topics as historical population trends, distribution and behavior in the Bay St. George area.”

Jonathan Strickland, Manager of the Qalipu Natural Resource Division added, “Sometimes researchers might overlook the value of our elders’ traditional knowledge and oral history.  As an indigenous organization we understand the value.  Through this project we hope not only to collect and preserve this valuable knowledge, but also build on it by following up with collecting scientific data in the field that supports what our elders have told us.”

If you haven’t scheduled your interview yet, please do so.  This project will end on November 25th.  Please contact Madonna or Mary Elsa at 649-0593.