In this episode of the Co-management Commons Show, Quinn Laver a graduate student from the Dalhousie Marine Affairs program, discussed her work and contributions to a co-management led research project with the Torngat Wildlife Plants and Fisheries Secretariat in Nunatsiavut.

In this Co-management Commons show I am in conversation with Trevor Swerdfager, from the University of Waterloo and former senior bureaucrat with the Government of Canada. Trevor had a long career in public service and through this experience, he gained unique insights into how co-management agreements are developed and implemented from the bureaucratic perspective. Trevor also spent time in private industry and academia, providing additional perspectives. In this wide-ranging discussion, Trevor shares his thoughts on co-management models, challenges, and opportunities based on his diverse career path. He offers valuable insights for both practitioners and students of co-management and Indigenous resource governance.

In this episode of the Co-management Commons Podcast, Tawney Lem and Tim Hawkins discuss the evolution and current state of co-management practices in the West Coast Vancouver Island region. They share the history of West Coast Aquatic, a non-profit organization that facilitates collaborative decision-making processes between First Nations, governments, and stakeholders. The conversation delves into the challenges and successes of co-management, highlighting the importance of trust, effective communication, and the shift towards more informal and grassroots approaches. Tawney and Tim also offer advice for those starting out in the field, emphasizing the value of learning from diverse situations and perspectives, and the idea that co-management is as much an attitude as it is a process.

In this episode I am reviewing a new book titled Treaty Justice: The Northwest Tribes, The Boldt Decision, and the Recognition of Fishing Rights by Charles Wilkinson. The book offers critical insights into the history of injustices against Indigenous Peoples and how that context continues to shape modern day co-management efforts. The Bolt decision was a landmark case affirming treaty fishing rights in the US Pacific Northwest. As described in the thoughtful analysis by Charles Wilkinson, implementing the decision required tremendous will with so much civil unrest and disrespect for the rule of law by the non-Indigenous fishers. The resulting legacy of reconciliation provides hope. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of the colonial roots and power imbalances that underpin many present-day co-management regimes. For people engaged in co-management or exploring these topics, I think this book is foundational reading. I highly recommend it for people serious about co-management with Indigenous Peoples.

In this episode I am talking to Mr. Clifford Paul who has extensive experience in moose co-management in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. He uses an approach called "two-eyed seeing" which integrates Indigenous Mi'kmaq knowledge and perspectives with Western scientific knowledge.

03:00 - Clifford situates himself and tells his story

09:00 - Two-eyed seeing

14:14 - A story to illustrate the power of two-eyed seeing

22:00 - Discussion about Netukulimk

30:00 - Early stages of Moose co-management

42:00 - Protecting Indigenous knowledge systems

In this episode of the Co Management Commons show I talk with Dr. Graham White, a retired political scientist who has extensively studied co-management boards across northern Canada. White reflects on attending numerous board meetings starting in the late 1980s. He found the dialogue and relationship between Indigenous and government appointees constructive despite some disagreements. Over 30 years, White observes a greater acceptance of co-management institutions, though some remain misunderstood by the public. He sees steady progress in incorporating Indigenous knowledge into processes. Overall, White provides insights into the evolution of northern co-management from his decades of firsthand observation.

In this episode of the Co Management Commons show I am in discussion with Jason Akearok, Executive Director of the Nunavut Wildlife Management Board, to discuss wildlife co-management in Nunavut. Jason has worked with the Board for 9 years and brings the experience of being an Inuk, and from his work with Environment and Climate Change Canada. A key topic was the Board's process for making decisions about the Baffin Island Caribou Herd, including imposing a moratorium and total allowable harvest. The Board held an in-person public hearing with delegates from each community to gather perspectives. Although it was difficult to restrict Inuit rights to harvest caribou, there was consensus that the herd size had declined. The Board established a 250 male-only harvest quota in 2014, which has since increased as more caribou are observed. Jason noted the excitement of young people harvesting their first caribou this past summer. The Board is now focused on a 10-year strategic plan to engage Inuit and meet its duties under the Nunavut Agreement. Jason also discussed his role in analyzing information and ensuring the Board makes well-informed decisions. He reflected on efforts to incorporate Inuit knowledge into decision-making through improved communication. Overall, the interview provided insights into wildlife co-management and key decisions about caribou in Nunavut.

In this episode of the Co-Management Commons podcast, Dr. Meryl Ballard discusses her journey and innovative work integrating Indigenous and Western science. Dr. Ballard emphasizes the value of Indigenous science, the concept of "three-eyed seeing," and the challenges faced within academia and government. The conversation delves into practical applications, future aspirations for Indigenous science recognition, and the importance of language, biodiversity, and traditional teachings. Here are some themes.

In this podcast, I am in conversation with Dr. Fikret Berkes who is a prominent scholar in the field of co-management and he has made a significant contribution to this area of study.

In this podcast, I am in conversation with Dr. Valérie Courtois, who is an Indigenous leader in Canada and well known for her contributions to the Indigenous Leadership Initiative (ILI). The ILI website is located at https://www.ilinationhood.ca.