Integrating traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) into natural resource management

A growing interest in traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) in the National Park Service (NPS) is emerging out of an understanding that the original peoples of the land and their unique knowledge have much to offer modern land management. While little information exists regarding the nature, location, and outcomes of TEK integrated projects, even less information exists regarding the perceptions of its integration among managers in the world’s first protected area system, the U.S. National Park System. With many parks now managing lands that were inhabited for centuries by native tribes, understanding the nature of TEK-integrated projects is especially important. Using an online survey focusing on the Intermountain and Pacific West regions of the National Park System, we assessed the perspectives of NPS employees on TEK integration. We hope to shed light on the perceived benefits, obstacles, and attitudes toward TEK integration within the National Park Service, as well as to provide a preliminary map describing the location and nature of these projects.