Abstract 100 – North Cascades Joint Nations Grizzly Bear Initiative: Weaving Together Indigenous Knowledge and Western Science to Restore and Protect Grizzly Bear Populations

Mackenzie Clarke

First Nations in southwest B.C. have long revered the grizzly bear as a steward of the landscape
and a vital resource for their communities. Indigenous people, maintain a close relationship
with these bears based on respect and reciprocity, recognizing their ecological, cultural, and
spiritual significance. Grizzly bears are seen as guardians of the land, playing a crucial role in
maintaining ecosystems and supporting other species as an 'umbrella species.'
Historical factors, including overhunting and isolation, have contributed to the decline of the
North Cascades grizzly bear population. To address these challenges, inclusive and adaptive
stewardship practices must be developed in partnership with Indigenous communities. British
Columbia's commitment to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
(UNDRIP) provides a framework for building genuine reconciliation and collaboration in grizzly
bear conservation efforts.
The North Cascades Joint Nation Grizzly Bear Initiative aims to promote interconnectedness,
respect, and cooperation among governments, Indigenous nations, municipalities, industry, and
individuals. By improving relationships and coordination, this initiative seeks to exemplify
reconciliation and collaboration toward conserving grizzly bears and their habitat. This initiative
recognizes the importance of integrating Indigenous and Western knowledge systems,
emphasizing stakeholder cooperation and coordination. By fostering a collaborative and
inclusive approach, the initiative seeks to promote sustainable stewardship of grizzly bears and
their habitat, serving as a model for effective conservation efforts.