Regionally Dynamic, Appropriate and Secure Native Food Systems

The forced relocation of Native American Indigenous Tribes from their originating home lands has disrupted the effectiveness of their base of information regarding their ethnobotanical and ethnobiological cultural knowledge systems, including traditional practices and the science and stories that allowed for these practices to support and enhance resilient and sustainable communities. The result is that more than a quarter of American Indians, Native Alaskans, Native Hawaiian and other indigenous communities have less secure food and water resources, leading to chronic health issues. We will address the challenges of how to reinvigorate and validate regionally appropriate Native food systems, including the need for secure water resources. The discussion will include the potential partnerships with Tribal Colleges and Universities, the National Parks System and Native American Studies programs, including Forestry and Environmental Science Programs.