Community-based biodiversity monitoring: Embracing Indigenous knowledge and values

We collaborate with Indigenous communities throughout the lands commonly referred to as Canada to promote Indigenous knowledge and values within co-developed community-based environmental monitoring and research programs. Together, we identify the most effective methodologies for this purpose. We address critical ecological research questions identified by our collaborators, while also providing training opportunities, engaging youth, seeking guidance from Elders, and fostering connections between nations and people, as well as with the Land. Additionally, the outcomes of our initiatives contribute to the development of resource 'toolboxes' that are shared broadly among Indigenous communities aiming to establish monitoring programs.