National Centre of Expertise – Traditional Ecological Knowledge (CETEK)

When the Oceans Act (1996) came into effect, ocean managers realized that a new approach was needed to manage coastal and marine ecosystems. Modern ocean management required an ecosystem-based approach that considers the interconnections between species and the environment, and includes human social, cultural and economic activities.

There are two forms of ecosystem-based knowledge: Ecosystem-based science is a new approach and DFO has been working to develop expertise in this area; and Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) of Aboriginal and coastal people is cumulative knowledge gathered over generations and is regionally and locally specific. The eco-system based knowledge requires the integration of scientific and traditional knowledge to be successful.

TEK is needed to inform and fill knowledge gaps related to the health of Canada’s oceans, coastal areas and communities, and to aid decision making related to industrial development, increased shipping, transportation, tourism, increased commercial pressure on the fisheries, economic development in coastal communities, increased population pressure on subsistence fisheries, northern sovereignty and food security.

For purposes of the Centre, TEK is the knowledge, practices and beliefs acquired through long term observations and experiences, and the wisdom to apply and adapt the observations and experiences to dynamic environment. TEK will include traditional and local ecological knowledge available from: Inuit, First Nations, and other Aboriginal communities; coastal communities and coastal industry sectors including academia; and from the public sector.

The objectives of CETEK are to:

• Develop a Canada-wide Traditional Ecological Knowledge Strategy to guide the way DFO gathers and uses TEK;
• Develop a guidebook (with consideration for cultural and regional differences) on how various forms of TEK can best be acquired, integrated with scientific data and use to improve the health and prosperity of ocean and coastal waters; and
• Make recommendations on how best to engage Aboriginal and community knowledge holders in the planning and implementation of ocean and coastal management.

To achieve these objectives CETEK will work to strengthen relationships and build networks with DFO and knowledge-holders. It will undertake collaborative planning through strategic workshops, and facilitate internal and external sharing of information regarding the development of the national TEK strategy and guidebook.